More Baby Steps to Open the 2011 Season

For once, Alex Smith wasn't the
worst quarterback on the field.

Yes, it was great to see the 49ers get out of the gates with a divisional win to start the 2011 season, and it was even more impressive to see them build a 16-point lead heading into halftime on their way to a 33-17 victory over the rebuilding Seahawks.

The defense did what it was supposed to do against an inferior offense and the special teams...well, what can you say about Ted Ginn's two return TDs that sealed the game in the 4th quarter? Epic.

But then there's the offense, which looked very similar to the ultra-conservative Jimmy Raye-installed offense that stunk up the previous two campaigns.  It's obvious that opposing defenses are still keying in on Frank Gore, as evidenced by Gore's general ineffectiveness (22 carries, 59 yards, 2.7 avg), contributing to a woeful 1-for-12 3rd down conversion rate.

Jim Harbaugh showed no confidence in Alex Smith by continuing to run between the tackles in the red zone, resulting in three field goals before Alex himself dived into the end zone for the first TD of the game.

Quite simply, Harbaugh is going to have to let Smith make some plays - and Smith is going to have to be successful when given those opportunities. Otherwise, we're looking at another season of running on 1st down, running on 2nd down, and being forced to throw the ball into pass protection coverage on 3rd and long.

The Niners can't expect their kick returners to save the day all season long while mustering a paltry 200 or so yards on offense. Ask the San Francisco Giants how well an ineffective offense has worked for them this year.

But enough of that. This morning, the 49ers are undefeated with an intriguing matchup against bumbling Tony Romo and the Cowboys next Sunday. Who knows? Maybe some of the 20,000 or so "Faithful" who showed up yesterday disguised as empty chairs will actually make themselves seen and heard against Dallas.