2009 NFL Position Battles to Watch: Quarterbacks

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SAN FRANCISCO 49ERS - Shaun Hill vs. Alex Smith vs. Damon Huard

While Damon Huard has by far the most experience of these three, the battle for San Francisco's starting spot is really a two-man competition between Shaun Hill and Alex Smith.

Seeing as a position battle is meant to determine what player will give the team the best shot at winning, it would make sense that Hill, who has gone 7-3 in his 10 starts for San Francisco, would have an inside edge on Smith, who has compiled a miserable 11-21 record as San Francisco's starter. And that was the case prior to the team's minicamps and OTAs.

However, Smith, once a huge underdog in this competition, has narrowed the gap significantly, partly due to his own body of work this offseason and partly due to Hill's tendency to struggle in practices. If Smith keeps outshining Hill, the QB could very well get a chance at resurrecting his career and prove that he's not the bust everyone has made him out to be. 

TAMPA BAY BUCCANEERS - Byron Leftwich vs. Luke McCown vs. Josh Freeman

The winner of the Buccaneers' job isn't going to become a must-start in the world of fantasy football, but they will still have an impact in fantasy leagues as their play will determine the value of wide receiver Antonio Bryant and tight end Kellen Winslow. And, if things keep progressing as they are in Florida, it may be wise to move Bryant and Winslow down your cheat sheets.

Once thoroughly opposed to throwing rookie Josh Freeman into the fire this season, the team is changing its tune as both Luke McCown and Byron Leftwich are struggling. Unless something changes drastically before the season starts, the Bucs are looking at either starting one of two veteran quarterbacks that have been underwhelming at best this offseason or a rookie that will suffer through plenty of growing pains throughout the year. Having your receiver or tight end receiving throws from any of the above is not exactly encouraging.

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