Same opponent, new story for Smith

INDIANPOLIS — The 49ers are no longer obligated to play Alex Smith because of his contract.

Remember that seven-year, $49.5 million deal Smith signed with the 49ers as the No. 1 overall pick in 2005? It turned into $26.3 million over four years before both sides agreed enough was enough.

Smith accepted a pay cut to return this season to the 49ers. He realized the 49ers could not pay him his scheduled $9.6 million salary this year or $15 million for 2010, so he willingly accepted a compromise.

He signed a two-year, $6.5 million contract — considered good money for an NFL backup quarterback.

Well, Smith is a backup no more.

He gets a chance to re-invent himself with the 49ers, beginning today against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium when he makes his first NFL start in 720 days. Smith takes over for Shaun Hill, who was benched at halftime of last week's game against the Houston Texans.

“I don't think I ever lost confidence,” Smith said. “It had been almost two years since I played in a live game. Yeah, I had played in some preseason games, but that is always different. I think it is more just getting back out there.”

Smith played a good second half against the Texans, throwing three touchdown passes to tight end Vernon Davis. Coach Mike Singletary named Smith the 49ers' new/old starting quarterback because he said he believes Smith gives the 49ers their best chance to win.

“Alex is a totally different guy today than he was even six months ago,” 49ers coach Mike Singletary said. “He's just a totally different guy. I think his mindset is clear.

“The thing that spoke volumes to me about him was in the offseason he had a chance to move on and go to another team and make more money. But he decided to stay because he felt that he wanted to be a part of what was here. He wanted to finish what he started. To me, that speaks volumes for who he is and the kind of person that he is.”

The 49ers were fresh off a trip to Mexico City early in the 2005 regular season when then-coach Mike Nolan decided it was time for Smith to take over. Smith's first NFL start came against the Colts at Candlestick Park.

Again, Smith is facing the Colts.

“That was a good game,” Smith said, ironically.

He completed just 9 of 23 passes for 74 yards — the lowest output for a full game in his career. He also threw a career-high four interceptions in the 49ers' 28-3 loss to Indianapolis.

“I think it's just coincidence, back starting again against the team I got my first start against,” Smith said. “A lot has changed since then.”

The biggest thing that changed was that the 49ers were no longer under any financial pressure to put Smith onto the field before he was ready.

“Getting the nod for those games is based more on potential than what you've proven at that point,” Smith said. “Yeah, this is definitely a different circumstance, a different way of getting told you're the starter.”

The 49ers made the move because Smith gives them a better chance of capitalizing on how defenses have been stacking the line of scrimmage. Hill had a difficult time completing passes down the field.

Smith's arm strength allows him a better opportunity to take advantage of defenses that key solely on the run or short passes.

“If you can run the ball, then that helps the pass and vice versa,” Singletary said. “It's just like any other team.

“I think it's really important for Alex just to continue to take another step. It's a great opportunity for him. I know he's hungry, and anticipating that, and it's going to be a tremendous challenge for our offensive line, dealing with the pass rush of Indy. I think we have to do a good job of really having a balanced attack and making sure that we're executing.”

For more on the 49ers, go to Instant 49ers at blog.pressdemocrat.com/49ers. You can reach Staff Writer Matt Maiocco at matt.maiocco@

pressdemocrat.com.