Giants vs. 49ers: Info, 3 Matchups to Watch and Final Score Prediction

To preview the 2012 NFC championship game between the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers, we run down the basics, three matchups to watch and a final score prediction: 

THE BASICS

WHEN: Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012 at 6:00 p.m. EST

WHERE: Candlestick Park, San Francisco, Calif.

HOW: 49ers defeated New Orleans Saints, 36-32; Giants defeated Atlanta Falcons, 24-2, and Green Bay Packers, 37-20. 

SERIES: Tied 14-14 in regular season, 49ers lead postseason series 4-3.   

COACHES: Jim Harbaugh (13-3, 1-0 in postseason), 49ers; Tom Coughlin (142-114, 8-7 in postseason).

LINE: San Francisco -2.5

THREE MATCHUPS TO WATCH

1. Vernon Davis vs. Michael Boley

The 49ers tight end was Alex Smith's go-to-guy in the divisional round. Boley was a part of the Giants linebacking crew that harassed Jermichael Finley for most of their win at Lambeau Field. Both face a tough task Sunday.  

2. Eli Manning vs. 49ers pass rush

Manning has been well-protected through the Giants' four-game winning streak. When he's given the right amount of time, he's as good as anyone in the game. However, Manning can be erratic and turnover prone against pressure (see: interception against Green Bay). The 49ers need to get him off the spot and collapse the pocket. 

3. Steve Weatherford vs. Ted Ginn

I see the 49ers and Giants as being two evenly-matched teams with similar styles, at least defensively. When that's the case, special teams can make the difference. The Giants don't have much for a threat in the return game, but they need to be cognizant of Ginn at all times Sunday. Just one poorly placed punt could send Ginn to the races. 

FINAL SCORE PREDICTION

The 49ers present Manning with a pressure defense that could really make things difficult for the hot quarterback. But I think what the Giants can do to Alex Smith defensively is much more important. If New York can collapse the pocket and cover down field like they did Sunday in Green Bay, Giants win. The 49ers running game isn't enough to tilt the scale in their favor. 

Giants 27, 49ers 23