QUICK RECAP AND Q&A

Alex Smith- After much criticism following a very unsuccessful rookie season, Alex Smith has shown real progress this season. Not only are his statistics improved, but he also has the intensity and heart to make a great leader as a QB in the NFL. Smith sparked a second half comeback over Seattle on Thursday as he threw for two scores and ran for another. The former number one pick made one big play after another as he led his team down field numerous times in the second half. The 49ers have an outside shot to make the playoffs, but if they continue to play at this level, nothing is impossible.

Frank Gore- It was a slow start for Frank Gore on Thursday, but a stellar second half left him with another huge day. Gore finished with 29 carries for 144 yards and a receiving TD. He's closing in on 1500 yards for the season, and with his week to week consistency he's arguably the second best RB in the NFL. Gore and the 49ers clearly have a bright future, and they are one team clearly going in the right direction. Let's give Mike Nolan a hand.

Matt Hasselbeck- Coming off one of his best performances of the season, Hasselbeck clearly took a step backward against San Francisco. The entire offense has struggled due to the loss of guard Steve Hutchinson, and if Seattle had to do it all over again they would sign him. While Hasselbeck looked sharp early, a shaky second half, including a huge interception inside the red zone, led to his team's demise. With such a weak second half schedule, it's very disappointing to see Hasselbeck's numbers like these.

Shaun Alexander- Just like his QB, reigning MVP Shaun Alexander clearly is not at the top of his game. While he did score a touchdown, his 23 carries for 73 yards were very pedestrian. Alexander is not 100% because if he was, double the yardage would be expected. He's only broke 4 yards per carry in one contest all season. He's an average fantasy RB right now, and his reputation should not justify starting him against San Diego next week. Thanks a lot, Madden.

Now for some of your questions....

Q: Should I play Brett Favre against the weak Lions defense or Marc Bulger against Oakland? I know Favre has the better matchup, but Bulger was still able to tear apart the Bears defense, despite a poor matchip.

A: Bulger looked great last week against Chicago, and he should play well again next week. However, this time he's not in the comfortable dome atmosphere at home and will travel to Oakland. He still should finish somewhere around 200 yards and 1-2 TDs despite the change of scenery. Saying all that, I love Favre this week against Detroit. This should be a shootout considering both teams will check their defense at the door. I'd project close to 300 yards and multiple TDs for Favre.

Q: Maurice Jones-Drew has been on fire this season, and he has a great matchup against Tennessee on Sunday. Should I start him over Jamal Lewis?

A: You're correct, that Jones-Drew has been on fire lately. The issues with him though are that he is both a bit banged up and destined to share carries. He's still a good option this week, but I prefer Jamal Lewis. As shown by Willie Parker last week, the Browns rush defense stinks. Lewis always seems to tear up the Browns as well. The Ravens will look to pound the ball all game in what should be an easy victory.

-David Cassilo
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