Just when it looked like Alex Smith would buckle under the pressure and make just enough mistakes to hurt the 49ers chances against the Seahawks, Smith came to life. With a clutch performance worthy of praise, Smith stepped up and put together 3 fourth quarter touchdowns -- two through the air, another on the ground -- and the 49ers kept Seattle from winning the NFC West with a 24-14 victory.
This victory, one that keeps San Francisco's slim playoff hopes alive, snapped a 3-game losing streak and could be the confidence booster Smith needs to advance his career with the 49ers. Since becoming the #1 draft pick in 2005, Smith has struggled and been inconsistent leading the 49ers often impotent offense. Yet this season he's put together some impressive games, though last night's victory was without question his finest as a professional.
Smith's final stats:
| Comp/Attempts | Yards Passing | QB Rating | Total TDs | Int | |
| 14-25 | 162 | 102.4 | 3 | 0 | |