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In expert analysis, the young playmaker has shown that he merits the first-choice spot for the national team's fly-half against New Zealand this weekend.
Fin Smith produced arguably the most impressive defensive display we have seen from an England playmaker in several years.
How he fronted up through regularly completing defensive hits versus an aggressive Fiji side stood out remarkably.
His tactical control was also immense - he showed a perfect blend of skill and composure, and made some strong choices during moments didn't proceed as expected in the first half.
Defensive Excellence and Strategic Command
His ability to settle the squad tactically while making important decisions is something he has really nailed.
From my perspective, the young fly-half is England's primary fly-half and he should begin against New Zealand this weekend.
I think the manager Steve Borthwick views it similarly too, because Fin has proven his capability in big international games.
Squad Decisions Amid Rivalry
The experienced fly-half began last Saturday against Australia for leadership considerations, with some aspect of that choice was to provide consistency and reward his form from the tour of Argentina.
But England's showing against Fiji represented a marked step up from the performance versus the Wallabies.
The Wallabies were defeated in Italy on Saturday, so we should avoid becoming overly excited about that victory, which should have been by a larger margin considering how off the pace the Australians were.
Fiji, by contrast, were much more threatening and presented a far tougher challenge.
Long-term Potential
The young playmaker is still only 23 - projecting forward 24 months, alongside Ford pushing him but also offering backup, I think Smith will find himself in an excellent position as a player.
The Harlequins star must also be regarded as an option at the right time and against suitable opponents.
He's progressing as a player while beginning to find his feet, but he also requires liberty to demonstrate his unique attributes.
Substitute Influence
The All Blacks brought on Damian McKenzie, who registered the decisive score to beat the Scottish team, demonstrating the significance of possessing individuals capable of creating a real impact from the bench.
That kind of presence can be the difference separating victory a World Cup from failure.
McKenzie watches the game develop from the bench while considering about how to create an impact when he comes on.
His choices and mistake frequency have enhanced substantially since his early professional days.
Role Discussion
If we can get Marcus as that kind influential player, including him among substitutes might prove valuable.
However, currently I don't think he is the answer at full-back, so that is a role that is still unclaimed.
The All Blacks will kick testing England's defensive line, therefore it must remain watertight.
It is a position that needs transforming into a real strength, in defense while regarding offensive transitions threat.
Right now, I don't think Marcus is a full-back in top-tier rugby.
I find it difficult to identify the advantage fielding him there.
I want the ball in his hands as much as possible, but I believe that should be among starters, particularly during the last 20 minutes.
Innate Qualities
Clearly there exist numerous similarities comparing Ford with Smith.
Fin has the ability to make the correct choices during tense moments - his natural reactions represent traits that can be taught.
I recall when he got the ball at one stage just inside his territory and it looked that opportunity existed should they swung it wide.
However during these milliseconds he calculated they needed to turn Fiji round as we are up on the scoreboard, so he kicked to pressure the opponents and turn the screw.
This represents the type of fly-half play securing championships and wins global tournaments.
All-round Ability
He additionally possesses composure under pressure directing the players around him, while recognizing that he mustn't always need as primary receiver.
I want to see him given the opportunity to show that at the highest level next week, just as we have seen the veteran accomplish, especially at domestic matches week in consistently.
During the South American tour, the experienced fly-half similarly excelled in difficult circumstances, previously you could argue occasions existed he has not quite done so in the very highest-pressure games.
I believe England possesses playmaking options capable of performing the role, but with Fin's defence combined with everything else, establishes him as the more complete versatile performer.
Defensive System
This also indicates there's no need to modify the defensive structure when you have someone aggressive occupying the playmaker channel, instead of someone who is somewhat reserved.
You could also present compelling arguments favoring Ford beginning and Fin Smith entering from the bench.
There are so many factors that go on behind closed doors, however the coaches choose to proceed, it will give New Zealand difficulties.
This hasn't consistently represented the narrative against the All Blacks, where the focus was simply on picking the optimal individual.
On this occasion, whichever fly-half they choose will pressure New Zealand significantly.
Smith's capacity to pick the right kick while delivering for a potential territorial gains can take pressure away from England.
