Giants vs. 49ers: Key Players to Watch in NFC Championship Game

The NFC Championship game is tonight at 6:30 p.m. EDT on FOX. It will feature the New York Giants and the San Francisco 49ers going at it in Candlestick Park.

This is going to be a great game highlighted by superstars, so read on to find out who you need to keep an eye on.

San Francisco 49ers

Vernon Davis

The Niners tight end is their best receiver and was instrumental in their win over the Saints in the Divisional Round.

Watch for him to have a high chance to be involved in the 49ers scoring plays.

Alex Smith

The QB has been rejuvenated this season and finally took his team to a place they figured they would be at more often when they picked him No. 1 in the 2005 Draft.

Frank Gore

If the Giants get pressure on Smith, and it’s something they excel at doing, Gore is going to have to step up. He certainly did last week and ran for 89 yards on 13 carries. He also caught seven balls for 38 yards.

Patrick Willis

The 49ers are one of the hardest-hitting teams in the NFL. They are anchored by the play from their outstanding MLB. You’ll see him all over the field today.

New York Giants

Eli Manning

The Giants QB has really stepped up and looks like one of the game’s elites.

He’ll have his hands full trying to overcome a team that got the best of him in their regular season meeting.

Hakeem Nicks

Nicks is the No. 1 receiver in this offense and keeps it running smoothly. His knack for the big play is what has helped the Giants all season.

Victor Cruz

Cruz emerged this season as a true beast after displaying his skills only in the preseason.

Ahmad Bradshaw/Brandon Jacobs

The two RBs in the Giants’ offense have had a down year. Neither has really been effective but they have come through when it matters.

See if they step up and make plays against a tough defense today.