Smith played really well before he was injured. The players that give you the best chance of winning should be playing. Nevertheless, it will be interesting to see what happens when Colin Kaepernick faces some tough defenses in the playoffs.
It is a risk; of course, when elite defenses shut down the 49ers running attack, puts the game in Kaepernick’s hands, and forces him to stay in the pocket. The Giants defense did just that a few weeks ago when they shut down Alex Smith, Kaepernick and their running game.
SF traded up to get Kaepernick in the draft after failing to sign Peyton Manning, so he is their guy. Would Kaepernick make this team better than 6-2? I have a hard time believing that elite defenses will not confuse him when it matters most.
Smith was 20 wins; four loses before injured as a starter. Named NFC Offensive Player of the Week for his performance against Arizona in Week 8, where he set a record completion percentage. Smith may not be the greatest quarterback; however, he had his team winning.
Kaepernick is a rookie and that alone could spell trouble when facing the 'hot' team in January. However, Harbaugh can always switch back to Smith - I guess.
Here is a good article on 'Report on Kaepernick starting stirs fans':
http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcwest/post...ing-stirs-fans