Alex Smith haunts me: he's a limited passer prone to mistakes under pressure that can bring a capable offense to a shuddering halt. After last week's performance, I'm trusting that the gameplan on that side of the ball will feature the run game, with the occasional simple pass for Smith. The Cardinals have talent up front and can pressure Smith, so it's vital to establish Gore and Hunter to slow the quick Arizona pass rush. The home team can be attacked downfield, and it would be nice to see Vernon Davis come out of pass protection and match up on the vulnerable Arizona corners.
The Cardinals have a decent run game (especially since unveiling LaRod Stephens-Howling) and Larry Fitzgerald is almost as talented as ever, but they haven't a QB or offensive line capable of mounting a sustained offensive effort when they go up against a tough defense like San Francisco's. The 49ers will be able to get after Skelton, while dropping safeties into coverage to look after Fitzgerald and Arizona could find themselves with long fields and long third downs all night.
I'll give the points.
Pick: San Francisco 49ers -7 @ 1.95
Pick: 1st TD Frank Gore @ 6
Pick: Anytime TD Vernon Davis @ 2.2; San Francisco Defense @ 5