NFL Playoff Predictions: 4 Projections for Giants vs. 49ers in NFC Title Game

Four predictions for the 2012 NFC Championship Game matchup between the San Francisco 49ers (14-3) and New York Giants (11-7): 

1. Vernon Davis has less than 100 yards receiving

The Giants did a fine job of keeping Packers tight end Jermichael Finley under wraps on Sunday, and they'll have to focus again on that position against the 49ers with Davis on the other sideline. But with so few threats in the 49ers receiving corps, New York can concentrate more attention on holding Davis down. He'll still have an impact, but I see the Giants keeping him under the century mark.   

2. Aldon Smith will have two or more sacks

The 49ers rookie has seen favorable blocking matchups all season long because of the presence of All-Pro defensive lineman Justin Smith. After watching the film of Saints-49ers from last weekend, the Giants won't be giving the elder Smith many one-on-one opportunities Sunday. He abused Carl Nicks on several plays, including a bull-rush sack in the second half. If the 49ers are to rattle Eli Manning this weekend, they need the younger Smith to continue taking advantage.  

3. Brandon Jacobs will score one or more rushing touchdowns

The Giants will struggle to win this game if they become one-dimensional. The Saints threw it 63 times against the 49ers in the Divisional Game, but the Giants don't want to have that same kind of imbalance. While Ahmad Bradshaw will be the main ball-carrier, New York will certainly sprinkle in Jacobs, especially near the goal line. Yes, the 49ers have given up just one rushing touchdown this season. But I think Jacobs punches one or more in while the Giants attempt to keep an offensive balance.  

4. Special teams will have one or more game-breaking plays

When two teams are as even as the Giants and 49ers, special teams can occasionally be the tipping point for one or the other. The 49ers have a clear edge, with three players—Ted Ginn, David Akers and Andy Lee—who can turn the tide at any given moment. Ginn is a big return waiting to happen, Akers kicked more field goals this season than any other kicker in NFL history and Lee had a Pro Bowl season. Can the Giants make a play or two of their own on special teams to even the matchup?