Journeyman to Niners' Starter? O'Sullivan Gets Nod Again

J.T. O'Sullivan is scheduled to make his second straight preseason start at quarterback for the San Francisco 49ers on Saturday against the Green Bay Packers.

O'Sullivan is competing with Alex Smith and Shaun Hill for the starting job.

The competition originally was to be between Smith and Hill but O'Sullivan appears to have overtaken both thanks in part to his familiarity with offensive coordinator Mike Martz's system. The two were together last season in Detroit.

In six NFL seasons, O'Sullivan has thrown only 26 regular season passes, all with the Lions last season. It would be a stunning upset if he wins the job from Smith, the former top overall pick in the NFL draft, and Hill, who played well late last season while filling in for the injured Smith.

O'Sullivan is to play about a half Saturday.

Smith has been excused from team activities with the 49ers today. He was scheduled to travel to his parents' home in San Diego late Thursday to attend funeral services for one of his closest friends. Smith is to rejoin the team Saturday.

By Mark Maske |  August 15, 2008; 10:02 AM ET  | Category:  49ers
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