NFC Championship Game 2012: 3 X-Factors for the San Francisco 49ers

In the San Francisco 49ers' matchup with the New York Giants in the 2012 NFC Championship Game, the following three players could be huge X-factors:

Michael Crabtree

Something tells me that the Giants aren't going to be allowing 180 yards to Vernon Davis as the Saints did a week ago. The 49ers might need to get production in their passing game from other sources, and no player on the roster is as talented in that area as Crabtree.

After a disappointing game against the Saints, in which the stage looked to overwhelm him a touch, he'll need to get back on track. A big performance from Crabtree could lessen the load put on Davis' back.

Ted Ginn

When two teams are as evenly matched as the Giants and 49ers are, special teams can make a big difference. Ginn, who limped off Saturday with an injury but is expected to play, is the kind of electric return man who can swing a game in his team's favor.

The Giants did a fine job of containing him in the first meeting, however. One big return is all it takes to grab hold of momentum, and special returners like Ginn have the ability to essentially turn punts into turnovers.

Chris Culliver

The Giants come to San Francisco with arguably the best combination of three receivers as you'll find in the NFL. Victor Cruz and Mario Manningham will both see action in the Giants' 11 personnel (one back, one tight end and three receivers), and that's where Culliver comes in.

As the 49ers' nickelback, he needs to keep those two from hurting the defense in the slot. The 49ers did well in limiting big plays to secondary receivers last week against New Orleans, and that needs to continue on Sunday.