The Facts:
The 49ers believe last season was not aberration for Smith, who threw 17 touchdowns and just five interceptions. The team believes with an offseason of work to correct two mechanical flaws, Smith can improve his accuracy, especially on throws outside the numbers.
Reported by CSNBayArea.com
Fantasy Football Diehards Line:
As CSNBayArea.com's Matt Maiocco notes, the first issue is something former NFL quarterback and ESPN analyst Ron Jaworski has talked about for several seasons. Smith locks his front leg (left leg) as he strides during his throwing motion. Jaworski has said repeatedly that without a flexed knee and cushion, Smith's accuracy and velocity suffers. The second flaw that the current coaching staff identified centers around Smith's drops, the source said. When Smith takes a straight drop-back, he has a tendency to veer off the center line and his right hip flies open as he sets. Without perfect balance, the accuracy and velocity of Smith's throws are impacted -- especially on throws to his left. Coaches could begin working on the field last week with players, and those two mechanical issues will be a major points of emphasis for Smith this offseason, Maiocco reports. Worth noting: In his seven-year career, Smith has 66 career starts and he has shown steady statistical improvement, especially since returning in 2009 after missing 25 games in 2007 and 2008 with shoulder injuries.
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