Two weeks ago, a national poll asked whether quarterback Alex Smith could lead the 49ers to a Super Bowl win. Sixty-three of the respondents said yes. Today, we ask the same question and provide arguments pro and con:

YES, HE CAN:

Smith nearly did it last year. Take away the punt return gaffes by Kyle Williams and the Niners are in the Bowl and probably favored to overthrow the passing-potent Patriots.

Smith made a leap last year with his highly efficient 17 touchdowns versus a scant five interceptions. Now he’ll benefit with another year in the Jim Harbaugh/Greg Roman system, an improved offensive line and a stable full of options that includes Randy Moss, Mario Manningham, a healthy and improved Michael Crabtree and potentially explosive rookies in A.J. Jenkins and LaMichael James.

Smith also dedicated himself to improving his throwing motion by visiting head and mechanics doctor Tom House. He’s now throwing with greater flex in his front leg, which should provide him with more power and accuracy.

House also might enhance Smith’s leadership qualities by getting Smith to become less of a people pleaser and more of a leader. All-Pro Saints quarterback Drew Brees said that’s exactly what House did for him and Brees said that message helped him develop into an elite player.

NO, HE CAN’T:

Last year’s playoffs proved Smith doesn’t possess the consistency to beat three or four straight playoff-caliber defenses in order to capture a Super Bowl. He played spectacularly in the landmark playoff win against New Orleans and then turned around and couldn’t complete a pass to a wide receiver in the NFC Title game.

While Smith and Harbaugh take umbrage at the label of “Game Manager” some around the league believe he was tightly controlled by last year’s run-dominated offense. And what makes the coaches believe Smith can suddenly breakout and be a prolific passer?

Smith, according to Profootballfocus.com, was one of the better deep throwers in the league last year. But that’s because the team rarely threw deep. Now with Moss and company defenses will be geared to caging the big play.

Additionally, while Smith was efficient, he failed when the team needed him most – on third down and in the red zone. Also, Moss and Crabtree look great in involuntary May workouts, but how patient will they be if Smith can’t get them ball consistently? This pair could grow frustrated and even mutinous.

Can Alex Smith lead the 49ers to the Super Bowl win? Yes

No

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