Quick Take: Colts-Niners

In Brief

» Last meeting: The Colts held the 49ers to just 177 total yards of offense in a 28-3 rout during Week 5 of 2005.
» Streaks: San Francisco has won seven of the last nine meetings, but is still behind 23-18 in the overall series.
» Last week: Coming off a bye, Indianapolis had little trouble with St. Louis, dispatching them quickly in a 42-6 win. ... San Francisco's comeback attempt fell short in Houston as it suffered a 24-21 loss.

Keep your eye on ...Dallas Clark's ability to find openings: The Colts tight end is quietly having an outstanding season. He is one of Peyton Manning's favorite targets and he already has 38 catches. In fact, he is just behind Houston's Owen Daniels in most receiving categories for tight ends -- not a positive sign for the Niners, since Daniels just torched them for 123 yards and a touchdown.

Dwight Freeney's array of pass-rushing moves: Indianapolis' Pro Bowl defensive end already has seven sacks. He has given opposing left tackles nightmares for years with his outstanding spin move and speed rush and it won't be easy for San Francisco's Joe Staley to keep him away from Alex Smith.

Jimmy Raye's play calling: The Niners have turned to Smith and given him the starting quarterback job, but does that mean the team will throw the ball more? Raye has relied on a power running game for much of the season, but against the Colts' explosive offensive attack, he may need to let Smith air it out more than usual.

Did you know?

When Alex Smith has a 95-plus passer rating, the 49ers are 5-0. ... San Francisco's Patrick Willis is the only player in the league to lead his team in sacks (2.5) and interceptions (two). ... Peyton Manning has 108 touchdown passes in his career against NFC opponents. ... Colts WR Reggie Wayne has a touchdown catch in four consecutive games.