Kaepernick earns another start against the Rams

Jim Harbaugh is going to ride the hot hand.

Colin Kaepernick will make his third straight start when the 49ers take the field against the Rams on Sunday.

The 49ers coach made the announcement at noon on Wednesday, taking his time to make sure he chose the right words.

While it was a drawn-out decision, it was the obvious choice. Kaepernick has played well the last two weeks and now that we’ve all seen what he can do, there was no way Harbaugh could go back to Alex Smith under these circumstances.

Harbaugh on the decision for Kaepernick: "The last three games tip the scales."

— Tim Kawakami (@timkawakami) November 28, 2012

"Colin we believe has the hot hand. We'll go with Colin," Jim Harbaugh said. #49ers

— Janie McCauley (@JanieMcCAP) November 28, 2012

49ers QB Colin Kaepernick: "It's a great chance to lead this team and show we're a great team and can go into the playoffs and win games."

— Matt Maiocco (@MaioccoNBCS) November 28, 2012

Michael Crabtree: "With Colin Kaepernick you've got to keep ur eye on ball. The guy can throw ball real fast. U've got to concentrate."

— Cam Inman (@CamInman) November 28, 2012

If anyone is curious as to how Smith feels, the 49ers made it known that he will speak to the media on Thursday. I think that qualifies as must-see-TV. One has to wonder if Smith will take the high road or finally express disappointment with the whole situation.

Harbaugh wouldn’t say whether this was a permanent move for the rest of the season. I bet Harbaugh takes a small amount of joy in making everyone wait for the news.