Divisional: New York Giants at San Francisco 49ers
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Much like the Texans, I can't help but look at the 49ers and their great 2011 record as aided by a weak schedule and a weaker division. Yes, they've won games against good teams like the Eagles and Bengals, and they defeated the Giants in Candlestick two weeks ago.
But the playoffs are just such a different animal. And the veteran Giants have tons of postseason experience while the 49ers have almost none. While that's not nearly enough to produce a win, I think it's a start.
Despite the loss two weeks ago, the Giants definitely proved they can move the ball consistently against San Francisco: they had five drives of 70 yards or more.
And on the other side of the ball, when they really needed stops on defense (and weren't put in a terrible spot because of a turnover) they got them, forcing three three-and-outs in the second half.
In another close, tremendously thrilling defensive showdown (a la that epic 1990 NFC Championship Game) the Giants will escape Candlestick with a last-second field goal.
Prediction:
Giants 17, 49ers 14