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The Honolulu Advertiser

Posted at 1:04 a.m., Thursday, November 1, 2007

NFL: Recovering QB Smith feels he'll start vs. Falcons

Advertiser Staff

Quarterback Alex Smith was confident yesterday he'll start for the San Francisco 49ers in Atlanta after a few days of rest for his injured right shoulder.

Smith threw erratically last Sunday in his first game back from a month's absence with a separated shoulder, but the third-year pro felt as strong yesterday as he did before the game against New Orleans.

He's taking fewer chances this week as well, snugly taping his shoulder to his body to minimize the inevitable looseness after such an injury.

"It's still tender, but definitely better than after the game," said Smith, who participated in a full practice yesterday.

And Smith even showed off his poise on the 49ers' off day. He was at the movies with his girlfriend when the earthquake hit Tuesday night, but they stayed seated, watching "Gone Baby Gone" while other patrons ran out in fear.