Giants vs. 49ers: 6 Reasons Why New York Wins Round 2

In Week 10, the New York Giants were defeated by the San Francisco 49ers, 27-20. That won't happen again.

In typical San Francisco fashion, the 49ers rode the leg of David Akers and the back of the defense to maintain a victory. Alex Smith played decently. Eli Manning, however, threw two costly interceptions.

Two-and-a-half months later, the teams meet again. This time, the chance to represent the NFC in Super Bowl XLVI is on the line. After watching the tape, there are six things that will change the complexion of Sunday's playoff game.

Ahmad Bradshaw Is Back

In the Week 10 matchup, running back Ahmad Bradshaw was out with an injury. This week, he's healthy and active.

Bradshaw is the better option in the backfield that also features Brandon Jacobs. He's valuable not just for his ability to run the ball, but also for of his ability to makes catches out of the backfield. He caught twice as many passes as Jacobs, with double the yards and touchdowns.

The running game wasn't much in Week 10, and don't expect it to be too different this time. But a two-headed threat is tougher to contain, especially when it adds a tougher, faster back and yet another catching option.

Delanie Walker Is Questionable

The second option at tight end was the leading receiver for San Francisco in Week 10 and a huge part of San Francisco's win.

Sunday, Walker is listed as questionable. He has been out for one month with a broken jaw.

Even if Walker does play, don't expect him to play as large of a role as he did in his previous game against the Giants. The 49ers will likely have to ease him back in to any kind of scheme.

The Giants Defense Is Healthy (and Hungry)

Early on in their regular-season game, the New York Giants lost defensive starters Michael Boley (linebacker) and Aaron Ross (cornerback). The Giants used rookies in their place.

This Sunday, both will be healthy and active. Assuming there are no injuries to any starters, the defense can continue the nasty streak it's shown in the last several weeks.

Jason Pierre-Paul, who in Week 10 was still developing his All-Pro season, continues to dominate.

The Giants defense may not quite be on par with San Francisco's, but it's a lot closer than it was 10 weeks ago.

Special Teams Discipline

The special teams unit for the Giants was horrendous the first go-round. You can be sure Tom Coughlin, known for his intensity for disciplined special teams (See Giants vs. Eagles Dec. 19, 2010), will stress this aspect of the game.

In Week 10, the Giants gave away field position on special teams penalties three times. Then there was a shanked punt that led to seven points. Plus, Jim Harbaugh won't try an onside kick again (recovered by Delanie Walker, of course).

The Giants have a proven track record of adjusting when it comes to rematches.

Wide-Open Catches, Not Drops

Drops happen. Unfortunately, New York Giants wide receivers twice dropped wide-open looks at key times.

As the first half was coming to a close, Eli Manning targeted Victor Cruz 25 yards downfield. Cruz dropped it. They went back to the exact same play again, resulting in an interception.

In the fourth quarter, down seven, Manning launched one to Mario Manningham, whose outstretched fingertips just missed the ball. A catch would have tied the game.

Two huge drops could have led to 10 more New York points and a 30-27 victory.

Momentum

Yes, the San Francisco 49ers have tons of momentum. They knocked off the Saints in a thrilling 36-32 victory and still have home-field advantage.

But can they do it again? Is there anything left in the tank after that?

The Giants, on the other hand, just cruised over the defending world champion Green Bay Packers.

The fact is, the Giants had a more impressive win. The Packers offense is more talented than the 49ers, and New York held it to 20 points. The staunch 49ers defense allowed 32 points. Turnovers in crucial field position saved them.

This Giants team is a completely different beast in round two.