Gameday Preview: Week 7 – 49ers vs Giants

Where do I begin with this one? Latest word is Alex Smith is most likely not going to play, which doesn’t bode well for the 49ers. Even if Smith were to play the outcome wouldn’t be to different, well actually that isn’t true. The offense would at least put up some yards passing in the first half. With Dilfer at the helm, that is unlikely to happen. Dilfer will be lucky to make it out of the game alive. They say this may be a trap game for the Giants, but if the same team that was fielded against the Ravens shows up this weekend, trap or not. No way the Giants lose. Here is what to look for this weekend.

When the 49ers have the ball:
I’m going in assuming Dilfer is the quarterback. The 49ers must get the running game going, if not it will be a very long day. Ashley Lelie is supposed to finally see some playing time, which should stretch the field. However I’m not sure Dilfer could get it to him deep. The offensive line must show up and some how find a way to slow down the league leading pass rush of the Giants. Again Dilfer will be lucky to make it out alive.

When the Giants have the ball:
The 49ers defense has been playing well and they should be able to handle the running game of the Giants. By doing this the Giants will look to Eli and Co. to win it in the air. Plaxico Burress is having a great season and he’ll continue to be the go to guy for Eli. The 49ers secondary has done well shutting down receivers and should be able to keep Burress and the others in check, unfortunately the Giants will take a page out of the Steelers playbook and get Shockey the ball often. The 49ers must get a pass rush to throw Eli off of his game, his is prone to make bad decisions and they must take advantage of that to have any hopes to win this game or even to keep it close.

Key Matchups:
49ers O-line vs Giants D-line: The Giants lead the league in sacks and will most likely continue to rack up the sacks in this one. Dilfer isn’t light on his feet and the offensive line hasn’t given the best protection.

Nate Clements vs Plaxico Burress: Clements salary will be put to the test.

Joe Staley vs Michael Strahan: Rookie vs Vet.

Experts:
Haven’t looked but I’m assuming everyone is picking the Giants.

Vegas Odds:
49ers getting 9.

Predictions:
After the bye the past two seasons the 49ers have been blownout. 41-10 and 52-17. With Dilfer at quarterback it’s looking like it will be another one. If the 49ers hope for any chance of an upset they need Smith at quarterback.

Homer pick w/Smith: 49ers 16 – Giants 13

Homer pick w/Dilfer: 49ers 3 – Giants 24

Non homer pick: 49ers 13 – Giants 17