Niners’ QB – Shaun Hill or Alex Smith?

Who will start at quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers in the 2009 football season — Shaun Hill or Alex Smith? According to most reports, the two quarterbacks have been equal so far in the first two weeks of training camp. However, heading into the Niners’ first preseason game, Hill will get the start.

Alex Smith - Is He Ready? (Image: Zuma Press)

Head coach Mike Singletary says that Hill getting the starting nod isn’t an indication of who is ahead. The Niners begin preseason against the Denver Broncos on Friday.

Over the last few years, Hill has plaed decently well when called upon. Last season, he started nine games and completed 62.8% of his passes for 13 touchdowns and eight interceptions. In his career, the 29-year-old has 18 touchdowns to go with only nine interceptions.

Smith, the former number one overall pick, has had it rough in his NFL career. He missed all of last season due to injury. Even when he’s been healthy, he’s mostly been horrible. In his career, he has 19 touchdowns to go with 31 intercetptions and a quarterback rating of less than 64.

That said, Smith has reportedly looked strong during the offseason and at 25 he might be able to finally live up to his promise. Keep an eye on this situation to see which of the two comes out on top.