Druckenmiller (“Druck” for you XFL fans), Rattay, O’Sullivan are just a few of the names from the last 15 years to call themselves the potential heir to the throne that is the Quarterback of the San Francisco 49ers. As we know, all three of these players were colossal failures. Now enter 2nd-year player from the University of Nevada Wolfpack, Colin Kaepernick.

On Wednesday, Niners coach Jim Harbaugh announced that Colin would be the starting quarterback on Sunday. There was never a QB controversy. It was no secret that Colin was the long-term option but was Harbaugh ever as committed to Alex Smith as it seemed, Peyton Manning pursuit notwithstanding?

When Coach Harbaugh decided to keep Alex Smith in 2011, he had nothing to lose and everything to gain. If Alex failed and the Niners sucked, he gets to draft his college protegé in Andrew Luck. If Alex played well, then he had something to work with in the interim and could plan for the future. It was no surprise to me that he took a shot at Manning. Hell, he would be crazy if he didn’t.

Colin has played well and brings a deep threat as well as more mobility and a stronger arm to the quarterback position. We won’t know his true ability until he faces some adversity and needs to put the team on his back to lead them.