Really, what else was the Bears' coach supposed to do?
The team is 1-2, facing a critical stretch of NFC North opponents, and quarterback Rex Grossman had just one touchdown and six interceptions in the first three games.
I've been a defender of Grossman in the past, arguing that Bears fans were simply not patient enough during last season's Super Bowl run. And Smith was correct in sticking with Grossman during his slumps last year.
But Smith is also correct in pulling the plug this early in the season. With a defense this good - Sunday night's collapse against Dallas notwithstanding - the Bears need an offense that isn't gonna screw it up as much as Grossman was doing. The kid was simply forcing too many passes.
Now, I will say this about Rex: I believe that he will be a factor sometime this season, whether it be because of Brian Griese's ineffectiveness or an injury. And it could be a huge difference maker for Grossman's long-term future in Chicago - if there is one.
His contract expires at the end of the season, and while General Manager Jerry Angelo has staunchly defended Grossman in the past, he may have no choice but to look elsewhere next year for a different quarterback.
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There's a decent trio of guys worth trading up for. Or tanking for!