"Alex Smith has every tool an NFL quarterback could hope for: a Pro Bowl tight end, a Pro Bowl running back, even a Pro Bowler in the making at wide receiver.

But then, what does all the skill-position star power in the world mean if those guys can't get on the field during training camp, when offenses are meant to develop rhythm and timing and all that good stuff?

"If we just think we have these names or we're going to show up on game day and get it done, that's crazy," Smith said. "It's totally crazy. We've got to get the work in and get better; otherwise, you're just hoping."

The 49ers will have to settle for hoping for at least another week, because they probably won't have their Big Three available in today's exhibition game at Candlestick against Brett Favre and the Vikings.

Tight end Vernon Davis is out with a strained knee after sitting a week. Wide receiver Michael Crabtree will miss a second straight game with a sprained neck. Running back Frank Gore is probably out another game, just to keep him rested for when games start to mean something."