Kyle Vassalo, Featured Columnist

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The 49ers' defense got wrecked by the big play against the Cardinals and didn't have an answer for Larry Fitzgerald, but it's the inadequacies of the offense that should have the 49ers concerned heading into the postseason.

Field goals are great, but when the 49ers have to square off against teams like the Packers and Saints, they have to find a way to get in the end zone. Playing clean football and forcing the most turnovers in the league has allowed the 49ers to stay in games when their offense isn't clicking, that won't work in January.

David Akers made four field goals today in a losing effort. The defense and special teams put them in a position to succeed and they fell short. What happens when the 49ers have to engage in a shootout with a top-flight offensive team?

The 49ers might look like they're built to win in January, but Alex Smith's inability to outscore a John Skelton-led Cardinals team raises a huge red flag.

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