Preseason practices reveal only so much, but quarterback Alex Smith exudes confidence, unleashing pinpoint passes

Perhaps Smith realized that even Dan Marino would have floundered in his rookie season if forced to perform with this supporting cast.

Smith's psyche is important as he gets a fresh start under offensive coordinator Norv Turner.

Coach Mike Nolan spent part of the morning practice having his players simulate sprinting out a tunnel before kickoff. Nolan was persnickety about where each player stood and how he trotted onto the field. I doubt many, if any, coaches put so much effort during preseason into the pregame stuff.