49ers vs. Seahawks: Scott Tolzien not surprised by Russell Wilson's success

San Francisco 49ers backup quarterback Scott Tolzien knows that his team must beware of the height-challenged quarterback they face this week. Tolzien's 49ers play the Seattle Seahawks on Thursday, and 5'11 quarterback Russell Wilson is a familiar face behind center.

In college, the now-NFL rookie replaced Tolzien as the Wisconsin Badgers' quarterback after Tolzien graduated, and the San Francisco backup told The Contra Costa Times that he often sent Wilson texts messages after Wisconsin victories.

"It's funny, because everyone gave him a hard time in the draft process that he was too small," Tolzien said. "He's a confident, humble guy and a good leader."

After transferring from North Carolina State, Wilson improved upon Tolzien's success at Wisconsin. Tolzien's senior season in 2010 saw him put up 2,457 yards on 72.9 percent completions, and he threw for 16 touchdowns to just six interceptions.

In 2011, Wilson threw for 3,175 yards with a similar 72.8 completion percentage. He threw for 33 touchdowns and four interceptions in leading the Badgers to a Rose Bowl berth.

Now, the players' teams will go head-to-head in a bout to determine the lead in the NFC West.