Time for Smith to show 49ers he's the man

August 3, 2008 8:59 PM

Posted by ESPN.com's Mike Sando

Smith

Now that the 49ers have declared a clearer plan for their handling of the quarterback race, Alex Smith is getting what might be his final chance to convince coach Mike Nolan he's the man for the job. Smith, Shaun Hill and J.T. O'Sullivan will each get five practices with the first, second and third units. We can accurately say Smith hasn't operated under ideal circumstances since coming to the 49ers, but at some point he needs to separate himself from his competitors.

The rather vague allotment of practice repetitions in camp has kept everyone guessing. But if each quarterback indeed has five chances to shine in practice, each player knows what he needs to do. Exhibition-game performances also figure to weigh heavily in the evaluation.

San Francisco 49ers, Alex Smith, Mike Nolan, Shaun Hill, J.T. O'Sullivan

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