49ers Ahmad Brooks, Aldon Smith start despite shoulder injuries

49ers linebacker Aldon Smith started the Super Bowl as expected. (US Presswire)

NEW ORLEANS -- To no one's surprise, linebackers Aldon Smith and Ahmad Brooks started for the 49ers after being limited in practice all week. They were listed as probable with shoulder injuries on San Francisco's final injury report.

Smith was credited with a tackle on Baltimore's second play, a 4-yard run by Ray Rice. Brooks tackled Rice for a 1-yard gain on the Ravens' fourth play.

The duo's presence did not prevent the Ravens from scoring a touchdown on their opening possession, a Joe Flacco 15-yard pass to Anquan Boldin.