The Facts:
Alex Smith's concussion symptoms returned over the weekend and he has yet to be medically cleared to practice. Second-year quarterback Colin Kaepernick could be under center in Week 12 when the San Francisco 49ers travel to the Big Easy to take on the New Orleans Saints. Kaepernick led the Niners to a 32-7 thrashing of the Chicago Bears in his first career start, completing 16-of-23 passes for 243 yards, two touchdowns and 133.1 passer rating. He showed poise in the pocket, threw with accuracy and looked comfortable executing the 49ers game plan.
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Fantasy Football Diehards Line:
While Smith hasn't been ruled out for Week 12 against the Saints, Kaepernick is worth a speculative add for fantasy owners dealing with injury issues (Vick, Roethlisberger, Cutler), underperforming starters, or owners that need an upside play to make the fantasy playoffs. If Kaepernick performs anywhere close to the level he displayed against the vaunted Bears defense on Monday night, it's hard to imagine he won't finish top 10 among fantasy quarterbacks in Week 12 against the Saints QB-friendly defense. 49er pass catchers would also get an upgrade with Kaepernick under center. After having only nine receptions for 101 yards over San Francisco's past four games, tight end Vernon Davis caught six passes for 83 yards, including his first touchdown since Week 3. "I feel like someone has taken the handcuffs off of me," Davis said after the game. His fantasy owners would no doubt agree--and want more of it. Keep in mind that despite Jim Harbaugh's postgame comments about riding the hot hand at quarterback, Kaepernick is not a lock to retain the starting job when Smith is fully recovered from his concussion. We could potentially see the Niners work Kaepernick into the game plan--something they've already done this season, but could step up depending on the opponent and situation. If that happens, then rolling with either guy as a fantasy option could be risky. In the meantime, Kaepernick & Co. look to be quality fantasy starts in Week 12.
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