The 49ers host the Minnesota Favres, sorry, Vikings tonight. Most of the game the focus will be on the Vikings and, well, Brett Favre. So I thought I'd bring you 5 things to look for in tonight's game.

1. Alex Smith's performance

Smith didn't have a good game last week, he completed only 3 of 9 passes, for 37 yards, and also threw an interception. But one thing to point out is the fact that four of his passes were dropped. One each by Vernon Davis, Michael Robinson, Tedd Ginn, and Delanie Walker, which led to the interception. He also didn't have Michael Crabtree and Frank Gore on the field with him. I'm not sure how he will perform with Vernon Davis added to the list of players not playing.

2. Nate Davis vs Vikings backups

Davis has been playing against practice squaders, and played good. But the coaches, and fans, want to see how he does against better competition. That is why he will be put into the game before the end of the half. If he has a good game, the coaches could consider elevating him to backup quarterback.

3. Anthony Dixon vs Vikings front 7

Much like Davis, the coaches have decided to see how he performs against better players. And much like Davis, he has done well when given the chance. Now unlike Davis, he will not have a chance of being the backup, as Brian Westbrook has that title. Dixon looks like he has a good future ahead of him.

4. The starting offensive line

With 3 new guys on the line, and 2 rookies, the team will likely keep the 1st-team line out there even with the second team to help them gel together. Davis struggled last week, which is expected, but needs to have a better game tonight to help ease some people's worries. He'll be going against one of the top defensive lines in the league. Unlike Davis, Mike Iupati had a good game vs the Colts. He'll have to help contain Jared Allen. But expect him to have another good game.

5. Diyral Briggs vs Travis LaBoy

These two are likely playing for the 8th and final linebacker position. Briggs has had a strong camp, and had a very good game last week. LaBoy has been injured most of camp because of a concussion. LaBoy is playing tonight, and will need to have a strong preseason the rest of the way. Briggs as of right now, is leading the competition, but that could easily change.

The 49ers host the Vikings tonight at 5pm on NBC.