The 49ers had their best season in a decade then stunned the New Orleans Saints with an upset win in Candlestick park. After a mediocre regular season, the Giants have played very well in the post-season, beating the Falcons and Packers with style. Which team will advance to the Super Bowl?
| 49ers | Giants | |
|---|---|---|
| 14 - 3 | Record | 11 - 7 |
| 8.6 | Strength of Schedule | 11.7 |
Offense
The 49ers offense struggled all season in the red zone, and didn't look much better against the Saints until the closing minutes of the 4th quarter. Their regular season offensive score was 25.6 and their post-season offensive score is 35.7. The Giants have shown an ability to make big plays in the passing game and have continued to do so in the playoffs. The Giants regular season offensive score was 30.8 and their post-season offensive score is 50.4.
Edge: Giants
Defense
San Francisco's defense is stacked with playmakers like Patrick Willis and Justin Smith. The 49ers regular season defensive score was 25.3 and their post-season defensive score is 17.3 (down a bit from the regular season because they faced the Saints' record-breaking offense). The Giants are known for their athletic and troublemaking defensive line. After an unimpressive regular season, this unit has played well in the playoffs. The Giants regular season defensive score was 13.4 and their post-season defensive score is 20.1.
Edge: 49ers
Special Teams
The 49ers have been solid on special teams this year, lead by punter Andy Lee. The 49ers regular season special teams score was 7.9 and their post-season special teams score is 5.1. New York's special teams are nothing to get excited about. The Giants regular season special teams score was 3.4 and their post-season special teams score is 1.1.
Edge: 49ers
Miscellaneous
The 49ers have a better win-loss record, but the Giants faced a tougher schedule. The 49ers won the time of posession battle all year, while the Giants had a lower penalties-per-play percentage. But its the 49ers turnover differential that gives them the big advantage here.
Edge: 49ers
Final Verdict!
Looks like the Giants' season is coming to an end. It should be a competetive game that the 49ers find a way to win.
Predicted Winner: 49ers
Stats:| Team | Y | MSM | Off | Def | ST | Misc |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco 49ers | 2011-2012 | 87.64 | 27.6 | 23.7 | 7.3 | 14.4 |
| New York Giants | 2011-2012 | 79.27 | 37.3 | 15.6 | 2.6 | 9.8 |
