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On Monday Night Football, second-year quarterback Colin Kaepernick blew the audience away with an incredible display. The first-time starter finished with a 133.1 passer rating, throwing for nearly 250 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions.
With a calm demeanor, Kaepernick took control of this ball game immediately. It was great to see him finding his targets and getting all the playmakers involved. Against the Bears, Kaep connected with 7 different receivers on 16 completions.
Among the stars that prospered was Vernon Davis, who finished Monday night with six receptions for 83 yards and a touchdown. The 49ers tight end was in particularly joyous mood following the victory.
"I was so proud of him at that moment because the ball that he threw me, it was one of those balls that you see Tom Brady throw. It was a tight window. Very, very tight. He took the shot. He was very confident in himself, obviously, and he made it happen."
On primetime, Davis was able to play a role in the 49ers passing game as a receiver. In five of the prior six games, San Francisco's big-bodied tight end was used predominantly as a blocker. And as such, he is one of the best in the game - but it's even better to have him as a pass-catching threat.
And maybe it's because the 49ers liked the match-up they had with Davis on a top-heavy Lance Briggs or an inexperienced Major Wright, but I'm not sure that was 100-percent the case.
If you noticed, with Kaepernick's uncanny mobility, the 49ers simply did not need Vernon Davis to pass-block. Davis was able to run around and get free, providing a big target for the young QB. And the Niners' offensive line did a fine job, having one of their best performances of the season.
Kaepernick's ability to extend the play with his legs gives his playmakers extra time to do what they do best.
What onlookers liked about Kaepernick was that he took advantage of his receiver's physical abilities. Because Kaepernick is elusive in nature, it allowed players like Kyle Williams run through the middle of the defense or let Michael Crabtree run to open space in the back of the end zone.
It's not surprise that a veteran like Vernon Davis liked what he saw on Monday night. He saw a gifted and confident young gun not afraid to take chances against one of the league's best defensive units.
Unless he is the next Tony Gonzalez, Davis, 28, is at the peak of his career. He has been in the league for seven years and it's made him hungry for a championship. Now the media is asking him who he wants behind center - who is that guy to lead him and the 49ers to the promise land?
"It's tough. Alex is a genuine guy. I've been here with him since Day 1 and I've always supported him. Colin is the same way -- very humble heart, soft spoken. He wants to be great. I can't choose sides. I'm here to support either one of them."
So, following the explosive Monday night outing, neither Davis nor Jim Harbaugh would commit to a QB.
Now, while I agree with my colleague, James Brady, that Davis' comments had little to do with Kaepernick and more about the game plan, I do believe the 49ers veteran TE is genuinely excited about what Kaepernick brings to the table.
Davis has been the biggest supporter of Alex Smith, but has never compared him to Tom Brady. In one night, Kaep had Davis comparing him to a 3-time Super Bowl winner and future Hall of Fame QB.
And while I do believe there is a Kaepernick era coming in San Francisco, I do not foresee it commencing in 2012. The 49ers are competing for a title this year and do not need this kind of distraction. I anticipate Alex Smith's return when he is medically cleared, but after 2012 is anyone's guess.
In the meantime, there is certainly some exciting substance to discuss regarding the future of the Niners.