Giants Topple Niners: Three Studs, Two Duds, and One Surprise

The New York Giants improved to an NFC East best, 5-1, after defeating the San Francisco '49ers on Sunday.

It was quite an impressive game all around for Big Blue, but let us take a closer look at some studs, a few duds, and some things that probably surprised a lot of us.

The Studs

Justin Tuck, Defensive End

Tuck was a force to be reckoned with for the entire game, and exploded in the second half. J-Tuck finished with two sacks on quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan, and forced a fumble on both of them. Games like this make me wonder how ridiculous we would be with Umenyiora on the other end...

Brandon Jacobs, Running Back

Jacobs put two into the endzone to give him six in the last four games. He put 79 yards up on the ground with only 17 carries, for a solid 4.1 yards per carry. He seems to be one of the few consistent members of the offense right now. Look for him to hit paydirt even more in the coming weeks.

Michael Johnson, Safety

Johnson was the bright spot for the defense on Sunday, and had his best game since being drafted from Arizona in the seventh round of last year's draft. Johnson finished with three solo tackles, seven assisted, and most importantly, two interceptions for 18 yards. Look for Johnson to secure even MORE playing time after this week.

The Duds

Eli Manning, Quarterback

Though Manning didn't throw any picks, his day overall was, in my opinion, sub-par at best. A completion percentage of 51.6 is nothing to brag about, and trust me, there were plenty of opportunities for the Niners to make plays, especially with four swatted balls at the line.

If there is one thing that made Manning look bad, it was his love connection with Burress. He needs to realize there are other targets on this talented offense.

Plaxico Burress, Wide Receiver

Burress, like Manning, had a very wishy-washy game. Racking in a TD was obviously the highlight, as one of his three catches. He couldn't seem to find separation from top CB, Nate Clements.

Burress will have another tough matchup next week against the Steelers' defense, but should break out against the Eagles and 'Boys.

The Surprise

John Carney can miss? Well, not exactly. A big blunder by the G-Men on Sunday was allowing 'Niners Linebacker Manny Lawson to essentially "jump" over the line, and easily block the oncoming field goal.

Nate Clements then retrieved the ball and traveled 70 yards for the touchdown. Plays like this shouldn't happen to the defending champs, and I don't see it happening any time soon.

Bonus: Look towards Next Week

It will, quite possibly, be the toughest game for the G-Men this entire year. I don't really fear the struggling Cowboys, and the Eagles are a tad shaky. The Steelers however, have an outstanding defense and a potent offense. Look for this to be a very shaky game for the defending champs.

Written by, Edited by, and Developed by Travis Rand, New York Giants and NFL Bleacher Reporter