"It was time, here at the midway point of a season that is supposed to bear the 49ers' signature.

Time for the 49ers to make a statement. Time for their offense to assert itself. Time for one of the league favorites to grab hold of the NFC West, show off their promised diversified offense, regain a rhythm.

"Yeah, the last couple of weeks, offensively were not our best," Alex Smith said after his commanding performance in the 49ers' 24-3 victory over Arizona. "Everyone took the challenge of getting back on track."

And it was "Monday Night Football." What better time to unveil those nifty offensive tools known as wide receivers?