49ers On Map After Topping New Orleans In Shootout

Can Alex Smith lead San Francisco to a title in 2012?

A 14 yard strike from Alex Smith to Vernon Davis in the waning seconds of tonight's game put the NIners up 36-32 and put away New Orleans. In the process, the 49ers have established themselves as a legitimate team in the NFC. Alex Smith is possibly a week away from a game that could serve as the ultimate redemption provided the Packers defeat New York tomorrow.

The Niners' defense helped them get out to a 17-0 lead in the 2nd Quarter. Led by Safety Dashon Goldson's interception and 11 tackles, the 49ers' defense forced Drew Brees to make enough mistakes to keep the 49ers in the game. Alex Smith played the role of closer trading scores with Brees before leading the Niners down the field to close the game.

There are three things to take from this game. First, Alex Smith is the 49ers' franchise quarterback and a legitimate one at that. Second, Jim Harbaugh is the right coach for the Niners and for Alex Smith. Third, the Saints are a good team that must work out the kinks on defense. The Saints have a shaky secondary that must be addressed.

The era of rebuilding is over in San Francisco and with this big win, everybody knows it. Alex Smith has emerged as the 4th good 49er quarterback and has the potential to be one of the 3 great ones. Words can not put into perspective how huge this win was for San Francisco. A beleaguered quarterback leading a team who has been trying to break through for a few seasons now. A city who was spoiled with Joe Montana and Steve Young. A former No. 1 draft pick finally proving he can live up to those expectations, despite being picked over who is now arguably the best quarterback in football. One game away from Indianapolis. The Super Bowl. The opportunity to knock off Rodgers is there and may just serve as the ultimate redemption for Alex Smith.

The possibility of squaring off against Rodgers.

The possibility of capturing the team's first Super Bowl since the Steve Young era.

It's all there for the taking.