Which quarterback would you rather have?
One who throws for 3,739 yards and 26 touchdowns in his worst season, or one who throws for 3,144 and 17 touchdowns in his best?
Do you want a quarterback who has thrown for 183 touchdowns since 2005 despite missing this past season, or the one who's thrown for 68?
Do you want your quarterback having enough confidence in his abilities to throw the ball between defenders for touchdowns, or the one who wants to avoid interceptions more than throw for touchdowns?
Do you want Peyton Manning or Alex Smith?
It's a question that has to cross the minds of 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh and general manager Trent Baalke.
Manning, who could soon be released by the Colts, has been medically cleared to play by his surgeon.
But, at 36, does that mean he'll be the MVP-caliber quarterback he once was?
After three neck surgeries in 19 months, could Manning withstand the 44 sacks that Smith endured in 2011? Will he regain the arm strength to throw some 500 passes? And how many seasons does he have left?
Do the 49ers now turn their backs on soon-to-be free agent Smith, now that he's turned the corner? Will his fourth-quarter, playoff heroics against the Saints be his high-water mark or just the beginning?
Harbaugh would face a cacophony of questions regarding Manning at today's NFL Awards in Indianapolis. But the NFL Coach of the Year favorite isn't attending, and he isn't saying.
No need to stick his neck out – yet.
What to watch
NBA, Kings vs. Warriors, 7 p.m., CSNCA: After tonight, the Kings hit the road for eight of their next 10 games.
Weekend poll
Whom would you rather have as your quarterback?
• Peyton Manning
• Alex Smith
Vote above or leave your comments in the comments field, or go to www.sacbee.com/sports
Friday's results
Are verbal commitments good for college football?
• Yes, they can ease pressure on recruits: 22%
• No: They're a joke and often ignored: 78%
Total votes: 112
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