KEEP THE MOMENTUM GOING EARLY
The Giants were outscored 60-0 through the first six quarters of the 2023 campaign. With their backs against the wall, the Giants responded in a big way. The offense, led by quarterback Daniel Jones, scored on each of their next five possessions, including four touchdowns and the game-winning field goal. Meanwhile, the defense stepped up, limiting the Cardinals to a total of 48 yards and zero points on their final four possessions.
"I'd say just as a coach, you look at the things that started with you that you could do better, and then you evaluate the players' performances, whether that's technique, fundamentals, execution of scheme, and those are the things you try to correct," coach Brian Daboll told the media Monday. "You try to be consistent with that on a week-to-week basis. We competed hard for 60 minutes, but we executed better. So that's the number one objective every week, to really go out there and have a high level of execution. Every week is tough, every team you're playing is a good team. Every time you play, you're going to have to go through something. And your ability to play the next play with a positive mindset and attention to detail on the specifics of what you need to do on each play to make it successful collectively is really where our focus is."
In the first half of games this season, opponents have outscored the Giants 46-0, while the Big Blue offense has compiled just 158 total yards. Meanwhile, the 49ers scored 20 points in the first half of Week 1 and another 17 points in the first half of Sunday's game. Outside linebacker Kayvon Thibodeaux knows the Giants can't afford to get off to a sluggish start on Thursday.
"It's all about complementary football," said Thibodeaux. "As a team, we've been trying to work on that, and starting fast is everything, whether it's defense going out there getting a three-and-out or it's offense going out there and putting some points up."
ALL-TIME SERIES
The Giants visit the 49ers for a Thursday Night Football showdown in the Bay Area. Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET on Prime Video.
In the Giants and 49ers' 42 regular-season and postseason meetings, the victories are equal (21-21), and they are separated by only 22 points (49ers 874, Giants 852). Since the Giants' victory in San Francisco in the 2011 NFC Championship Game, the teams have alternated wins in their last six meetings. The Giants are 1-1 in Levi's Stadium, where they defeated the 49ers in their last visit, 27-23, on Monday night, Nov. 12, 2018.
The Giants and 49ers have met once prior on a Thursday night on Sept. 5, 2002. The 49ers won in Giants Stadium, 16-13.
View rare photos of the history between the New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers.
San Francisco 49ers right end Monty Stickles (85) gets up in the air to snatch this 13 yard pass in New York Giants' 14 yard line in first quarter at San Francisco's Kexar Stadium, August 19, 1962. Coming in to stop stickles are Giants' defenders Jim Patton (20), Allan Webb (21) AND Sam Huff (70). On next play 49ers scored. (AP Photo)
New York Giants' Frank Gifford tucks in quarterback Y.A. Tittle's pass for 20 yard gain in first quarter at Kezar Stadium football game on August 19, 1962 between New York Giants and San Francisco 49ers. Coming in to make stop is 49ers line backer Matt Hazeltine (55). San Francisco won exhibition contest, 42-10. (AP Photo/Ernest Bennett)
Halfback Ron Blye (22) of the New York Giants is tackled by Bill Tucker of the San Francisco 49ers as he returns a kick to the Giants 17-yard line in the second quarter at Yankee Stadium, Oct. 20, 1968, New York. San Francisco won, 26-10. (AP Photo)
New York Giants Willie Young (69) lead blocks for Bobby Duhon (28) during a game against the San Francisco 49ers on October 20. 1968 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The San Francisco 49ers beat the New York Giants 26-10.(David Durochik via AP)
San Francisco 49ers Clark Miller (74) and Roland Lakes (60) tackle New York Giants Tucker Frederickson (24) during a game against the New York Giants on October 20, 1968 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The San Francisco 49ers beat the New York Giants 26-10. Clark Miller played for 9 season with 3 different teams. Tucker Frederickson played 6 years all with the New York Giants and was a 1-time Pro Bowler.(David Durochik via AP)
New York Giants Ronnie Blye (22) during a game against the San Francisco 49ers on October 20, 1968 at Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, New York. The San Francisco 49ers beat the New York Giants 26-10. Ronnie Blye played for 2 season, with 2 different teams.(David Durochik via AP)
San Francisco 49ers Ken Willard (40) is shown in a tangle of New York Giants on a wet field in San Francisco, 1973. Other players unidentified. (AP Photo)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), foreground left, tries to slither through San Francisco 49ers defense to score at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Oct. 14, 1979. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11), foreground left, rolls on his back over the goal line as he slithered through San Francisco 49ers defense to score at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Oct. 14, 1979. (AP Photo/Richard Drew)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana is chased by New York Giants back Mark Haynes (36), left, and safety Beasley Reece as he runs for a 20 yard touchdown in the second quarter on Sunday, Nov. 29, 1981 at Candlestick Park in San Francisco. (AP Photo)
New York Giants wide receiver Mike Friede (88) eludes San Francisco 49ers linebacker Bobby Leopold (52) during an NFL game on November 23 , 1980. The 49ers defeated the Giants 12-0. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
New York Giants defense takes on the San Francisco 49ers offensive line during an NFL game on November 23 , 1980. The 49ers defeated the Giants 12-0. (Peter Read Miller via AP)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Sunday, January 3. 1982. 49ers beat Giants 38-24 for Division Playoff. San Francisco 49er Running Back Earl Cooper (49) make ground yardage against the New York Giants Defense. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Sunday, January 3. 1982. 49ers beat Giants 38-24 for Division Playoff. San Francisco 49er Running Back Earl Cooper (49) leaps to make ground over New York Defensive back Mark Haynes (36). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Sunday, January 3. 1982. 49ers beat Giants 38-24 for Division Playoff. San Francisco Defensive End Dwaine Board (76) goes head over heels to make play. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Sunday, January 3. 1982. 49ers beat Giants 38-24 for Division Playoff. San Francisco 49er Defensive Back Ronnie Lott (42) hits New York Running Back Rob Carpenter (26) to make him fumble. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Sunday, January 3. 1982. 49ers beat Giants 38-24 for Division Playoff. San Francisco 49er Running Back Earl Cooper (49) make ground yardage against the New York Giants Defense. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco Forty Niners quarterback Joe Montana (16) gets a handshake from New York Giants Mike Whittington (62) after a 38-24 win over the New Yorkers in the NFC Playoffs at Candlestick Park, Sunday, Jan. 3, 1982, San Francisco, Calif. (AP Photo)
New York Giants' quarterback Phil Simms is sacked by San Francisco 49ers Dwaine Board during the second half of NFC playoff game, Dec. 29, 1984 in San Francisco. The 49ers defeated the Giants 21-10. (AP Photo/Jack Smith)
Place kicker of the New York Giants, Ali Haji-Sheikh is shown in action during game between the San Francisco 49ers and the New York Giants at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., Oct. 8, 1984. (AP Photo)
Unidentified players are shown in action on the field during game between the San Francisco 49ers and the New York Giants at the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J., Oct. 8, 1984. (AP Photo)
New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (56) runs with the ball while trying to avoid a tackle attempt by San Francisco 49ers tight end Dwight Clark (87) during the NFL 1984 NFC Divisional playoff game on December 29, 1984 in San Francisco, California. The 49ers won the game 21-10. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) sacks San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana (16) during the NFL 1984 NFC Divisional playoff game on December 29, 1984 in San Francisco, California. The 49ers won the game 21-10. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants safety Bill Currier (29) grabs San Francisco 49ers fullback Roger Craig (33) by the shoe to upend him in the first quarter of NFC first-round playoff game on Saturday, Dec. 29, 1984 in San Francisco. Craig picked up nine yards on the play. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, December 29, 1984. 49ers beat Giants 21-10 Division Playoff. New York Giant defender knocks ball out of San Francisco 49ers Wide Receiver Dwight Clark (87) arms. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, December 29, 1984. 49ers beat Giants 21-10 Division Playoff. San Francisco Quarterback Joe Montana (16) out runs New York Giants Linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) and defensive End Leonard Marshall (70). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers running back Wendell Tyler (26) is sandwiched between New York Giants safeties Bill Currier (right) and Terry Kinard in the first quarter of NFC first-round playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1984 in San Francisco. Tyler picked up 10 yards on the pass play from quarterback Joe Montana. (AP Photo/Jeff Reinking)
New York Giants linebacker Harry Carson (53) drags San Francisco 49ers running back Wendell Tyler (behind) into the end zone for a New York touchdown in NFC first-round playoff game, Saturday, Dec. 29, 1984 in San Francisco, Calif. Carson intercepted a Joe Montana pass and returned it all the way for the score. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana gets off a pass as New York Giants defensive end George Martin (75), attempts to block the pass during the third quarter of the 49ers 21-10 win over the Giants during the first round NFC playoffs at Candlestick Park, Dec. 31, 1984 in San Francisco. Montana threw three touchdowns and completed 25 passes for 309 yards. (AP Photo)
San Francisco 49ers defensive end Fred Dean (74), gets a hand on New York Giants running back Tony Galbreath (30) during the fourth quarter of the 49ers 21-10 win over the Giants, during the first round of the NFC playoff game at Candlestick Park, Dec. 31, 1984 in San Francisco, Calif. (AP Photo)
New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) is congregated by Mark Collins (25) and Carl Banks (58) after his interception and touchdown run on a Joe Montana pass in the second quarter on Sunday, Jan. 4, 1986 in East Rutherford, N.J. at Giants stadium. The interception helped the Giants beat the San Francisco 49 ers 49-3 in their NFL playoff game. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
The New York Giants Jim Burt eyes Joe Montana, San Francisco 49ers quarterback, as he closes in for a first quarter sack in NFL playoff game at Giants Stadium, Sunday, Dec. 30, 1985 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Montana was harried by an aggressive Giants defense and lost 17-3. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
San Francisco 49ers safety Ronnie Lott (42) gives chase as New York Giants tight end Mark Bavaro (89) catches an 18 yard second quarter touchdown pass during the NFL NFC Wild Card playoff football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Dec. 29, 1985 in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won the game 17-3. (Paul Spinelli via AP)
New York Giant Phil McConkey (80) celebrates a touchdown by teammate Mark Bavaro, left, with Joe Morris, background, in the second period of NFC wildcard playoff action against the San Francisco 49ers in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985. The Giants won the game 17-3. (AP Photo/Peter Morgan)
San Francisco 49ers Jerry Rice, left, fumbles his pass catch as he?s hit by the New York Giants Andy Headen in the third quarter of Sunday?s 17-3 Giants win at Giants Stadium on East Rutherford, New Jersey on Dec. 30, 1985. Bryon Hunt of the Giants fell on the ball to kill and another 49ers drive. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana is knocked down after making a pass by New York Giants George Martin in the fourth quarter of play in East Rutherford, New Jersey, Sunday, Dec. 29, 1985. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants Phil McConkey hauls in a 28-yard pass from quarterback Phil Simms in the end zone as San Francisco 49ers Tim McKyer hangs on during third quarter action at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Jan. 5, 1987. The touchdown helped lift the Giants to a 49-3 win in the NFL playoff game. (AP Photo/Susan Ragan)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Joe Montana is tackled by New York Giants Jim Burt during second quarter action at giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Jan. 4, 1987. Montana left the game, reportedly suffering from a concussion. (AP Photo/Wilbur Funches)
New York Giants linebacker Carl Banks (58) makes a move during the 1986 NFL season's NFC Wild Card playoff football game against the San Francisco 49ers on January 4, 1987 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants won the game 49-3. (AP Photo/Paul Spinelli)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro hauls in a 24-yard pass from quarterback Phil Simms for a first quarter touchdown at San Francisco 49ers Tim McKyer defends in an NFL playoff game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, Jan. 5, 1987. The Giants went on to win 49-3. (AP Photo/Ray Stubblebine)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets up to pass during the Giants 49 - 3 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in the 1986 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on January 4, 1987 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. (AP Photo / Al Messerschmidt)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) sets up to pass during the Giants 49 - 3 victory over the San Francisco 49ers in the 1986 NFC Divisional Playoff Game on Jan. 4, 1987 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ. (Al Messerschmidt via AP)
New York Giants Mark Bavaro catches a 24-yard first quarter pass from quarterback Phil Simms to score the first touchdown of the game as San Francisco 49ers Tim McKyer defends on Sunday, Jan. 4, 1987 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford. (AP Photo/David Fields)
New York Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11) reacts to a play during first half NFL playoff action against the San Francisco 49ers at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Jan. 5, 1987. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, November 27, 1989. 49ers Beat Giants 34-24. 49er quarterback Joe Montana (16). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49er running back Roger Craig runs with the ball for a gain of a yard as New York Giants defensive end Leonard Marshall grabs hold during the first quarter of their NFL game at Candlestick Park, Nov. 27, 1989. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, November 27, 1989. 49ers Beat Giants 34-24. Giants linebacker Pepper Johnson (52) and defensive back Mark Collins (25) combine to stop 49er running back Roger Craig (33). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, November 27, 1989. 49ers Beat Giants 34-24. Giants linebacker Carl Banks (58) rushes 49er quarterback Joe Montana (16). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, December 3, 1990. 49ers beat Giants 7-3. Giants running back Ottis Anderson (24). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, December 3, 1990. 49ers beat Giants 7-3. Giants running back Rodney Hampton (27). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, December 3, 1990. 49ers beat Giants 7-3. Giants defensive back Greg Jackson (47) keeps 49er tight end Brent Jones (84) from getting ball. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, December 3, 1990. 49ers beat Giants 7-3. Giants Center Brian S. Williams (59) blocks 49er linebacker Kevin Fagan (75) for Giants quarterback Phil Simms (11). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, January 20, 1991. Giants beat 49ers 15-13. Giants running back Ottis Anderson (24). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
FILE - In a Jan. 20, 1991 file photo New York Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor runs after recovering a 49ers fumble in the fourth quarter of the NFC championship game to help win the game 15-13 in San Francisco. The two teams will meet again Sunday Jan. 22, 2012 to vie for the NFC championship. (AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli/file)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, January 20, 1991. Giants beat 49ers 15-13. 49er quarterback Joe Montana (16) attempts to get away from Giants defensive end Mike Fox (93). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, January 20, 1991. Giants beat 49ers 15-13. 49er defensive back Ronnie Lott (42) eyes Giants quarterback Jeff Hostetler (15). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants running back Ottis Anderson (24) is seen in action during the NFC championship game against the San Francisco 49ers Jan. 20, 1991, in San Francisco. The Giants defeated the 49ers 15-13. (AP Photo/Tony Tomsic)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, January 20, 1991. Giants beat 49ers 15-13. Giants linebacker Lawrence Taylor (56) rushes 49er quarterback Joe Montana (16). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, January 20, 1991. Giants beat 49ers 15-13. Giants wide receiver Mark Ingram (82) catches pass, 49er defensive back Darryl Pollard looks the wrong way. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants quarterback Jeff Hostetler rolls backward into a handstand as Lawrence Taylor (56) hugs kicker Matt Bahr after game-winning field goal in final second of NFC championship game in San Francisco, Jan. 20, 1991. Hostetler held the ball then rolled into the handstand. Giants go to Super Bowl with 15-13 victory. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
San Francisco 49ers vs New York Giants at Candlestick Park Saturday, January 20, 1991. Giants beat 49ers 15-13. Giants defensive back Everson Walls (28) tackles 49er wide receiver Jerry Rice (80). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers Tom Rathman is upended by New York Giants Pepper Johnson (52) after receiving pass from quarterback Joe Montana in first quarter of NFC championship game in San Francisco, Sunday, Jan. 20, 1991. Giants Myron Guyton comes in at right. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg)
New York Giants quarterback Jeff Hostetler holds the ball as Matt Bahr kicks game-winning field goal in final seconds of NFC championship game with San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, Sunday, Jan. 20, 1991. Giants go on to the Super Bowl with a 15-13 victory. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
New York Giants quarterback Jeff Hostetler (15), right, celebrates with kicker Matt Bahr (9) as Bahr kicked a field goal with five seconds in the game to give the Giants a 16-14 win over the San Francisco 49ers at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sept. 3, 1991. Giants Carl Banks, left, jumps in the air as Lawrence Taylor watches from the turf. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
Nov. 30, 1998 at San Francisco's 3Com Park. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, November 30, 1998. 49ers beat Giants 31-7. New York Giants defensive back Conrad Hamilton (41) keeps San Francisco 49ers wide receiver J.J. Stokes (83) from catching pass. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Monday, November 30, 1998. 49ers beat Giants 31-7. New York Giants linebacker Marcus Buckley (55) tackles San Francisco 49ers tight end Greg Clark (85). (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers vs. New York Giants at Candlestick Park Sunday, October 1, 1995. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants' quarterback Kent Graham drops back to pass against the San Francisco 49ers Monday, Nov. 30, 1998, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 21: Quarterback Eli Manning #10 of the New York Giants runs with the football as he looks for a receiver down field against the San Francisco 49ers at Giants Stadium on October 21, 2007 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the 49ers 33-15. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
EAST RUTHERFORD, NJ - OCTOBER 21: Wide receiver Sinorice Moss #83 of the New York Giants jumps in the air and waves a towel at the fans during introductions prior to the game against the San Francisco 49ers at Giants Stadium on October 21, 2007 in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The Giants defeated the 49ers 33-15. (AP Photo/Scott Boehm)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) on Sunday, November 6, 2005, in San Francisco, California. The Giants defeated the 49ers 24-6. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
San Francisco 49ers defensive end Andre Carter (96) tackles New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) at goal line on Sunday, November 6, 2005, in San Francisco, California. The Giants defeated the 49ers 24-6. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants' Derrick Ward (34) in action against the San Francisco 49ers in their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) and running back Tiki Barber (21) in the huddle on Sunday, November 6, 2005, in San Francisco, California. The Giants defeated the 49ers 24-6. (AP Photo/Al Golub)
New York Giants' Eli Manning (10) after a win against the San Francisco 49ers in their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Justin Tuck (91) in action, brings down the San Francisco 49ers J.T. O'Sullivan (14) in their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants' Derrick Ward (34) in action against the San Francisco 49ers in their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) calls signals in their NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007.(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback J.T. O'Sullivan (14) fumbles the ball as he is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Dave Tollefson, left, and linebacker Chase Blackburn during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. San Francisco recovered the ball. The Giants beat the 49ers 29-17. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) runs for yardage in their NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007.(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs, right, slips inside San Francisco 49ers cornerback Walt Harris to score a touchdown during the second quarter of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) celebrates his touchdown in the end zone as teammate Chris Snee (76) joins in over San Francisco 49ers cornerback Walt Harris (27) in the second quarter of an NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 19, 2008. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce (58) runs an intercepted pass back for 28 yards as San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trent Dilfer attempts to tackle him during fourth-quarter NFL football Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants beat the 49ers, 33-15. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trent Dilfer (12) is sacked by New York Giants defensive ends Justin Tuck (91) and Michael Strahan during third-quarter NFL football Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. Dilfer was sacked six times as the Giants beat the 49ers, 33-15. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trent Dilfer, right, is sacked by New York Giants cornerback Aaron Ross during fourth quarter NFL football Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants beat the 49ers 33-15. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trent Dilfer, right, tackles New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce (58) after Pierce intercepted Dilfer's pass in the fourth quarter of the Giants 33-15 victory over the 49ers in their NFL football game at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, NJ, Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007.(AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27), top, and New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) celebrated Jacobs' second-quarter touchdown in their NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trent Dilfer (12) is sacked by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan, bottom, during second-quarter NFL football Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007, at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora (72) sacks San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trent Dilfer (12) in the first half of their NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007. (AP Photo/Kathy Willens)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Trent Dilfer (12) is hit by New York Giants defensive end Osi Umenyiora, rear, as defensive end Michael Strahan (92) closes in during first quarter NFL football Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007 at Giants Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) heads downfield during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) heads downfield during a 24 to 6 win over the San Francisco 49ers on Nov. 6, 2005 at Monster Park in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants running back Brandon Jacobs (27) heads downfield during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) rushes the quarterback during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
The New York Giants defensive line faces off against the San Francisco 49ers at the line of scrimmage during an NFL game, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) waits for the snap during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants linebacker Antonio Pierce (58) chases down a running back during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants running back Tiki Barber (21) heads downfield during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) leaps to make a catch during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) passes during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) leaps to make a catch over San Francisco 49ers defensive back Mike Adams (20) during an NFL game, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) unleashes a pass during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey (80) leaps to make a catch over San Francisco 49ers defensive back Mike Adams (20) during an NFL game, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan (92) rushes the quarterback during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants' Gibril Wilson, rear, sacks San Francisco 49ers' quarterback Cody Pickett in the second quarter in San Francisco on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2005. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
New York Giants' Brent Alexander, right, flips the ball to teammate Will Allen (not shown) after making an interception against the San Francisco 49ers in the second quarter in San Francisco on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2005. Also present are Giants' Corey Webster (23) and 49ers' Arnaz Battle, center. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
New York Giants Eli Manning winds up for a pass against the San Francisco Giants in the second half, Sunday, Nov. 6, 2005 in San Francisco. The Giants beat the 49ers 24-6. (AP Photo/George Nikitin)
New York Giants' Tiki Barber, right, leaps up as San Francisco 49ers' Mike Adams tackles him in the second quarter in San Francisco on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2005. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
New York Giants' Jeremy Shockey, right, rolls into the endzone to score a touchdown past San Francisco 49ers' Tony Parrish in the second quarter in San Francisco on Sunday, Nov. 6, 2005. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Jeff Garcia is pressured by New York Giants defensive end Michael Strahan in the second period Thursday, Sept. 5, 2002 in East Rutherford, N.J. Garcia's pass was incomplete. (AP Photo/Mark Lennihan)
New York Giants linebacker Jacquian Williams strips the ball from San Francisco 49ers Kyle Williams in the overtime period during the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won in overtime, 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants linebacker Jacquian Williams (57) strips the ball from San Francisco 49ers Kyle Williams in the overtime period during the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won in overtime, 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
San Francisco 49ers running back Frank Gore is hit by New York Giants Mathias Kiwanka during the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won in overtime, 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning calls a play in the huddle against the San Francisco 49ers during the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won in overtime, 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
New York Giants tight end Bear Pascoe scores a 2nd quarter touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won in overtime, 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith is pressured by New York Giants Osi Umenyiora (72) during the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won in overtime, 20-17. (AP Photo/G. Newman Lowrance)
San Francisco 49ers' Kyle Williams (10) fumbles as he is hit by New York Giants' Jacquian Williams (57) during overtime of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won 20-17 to advance to Super Bowl XLVI. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
New York Giants' Devin Thomas (15) celebrates after recovering a fumble during overtime of the NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won 20-17 to advance to Super Bowl XLVI. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
New York Giants kicker Lawrence Tynes (9) celebrates after making a field goal with punter Steve Weatherford (5) during overtime of the NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won 20-17 to advance to Super Bowl XLVI. (AP Photo/Jeff Chiu)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning is sacked by San Francisco 49ers' Patrick Willis during the second half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants' Mario Manningham catches a touchdown pass in front of San Francisco 49ers' Tramaine Brock (26) during the second half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
New York Giants' Eli Manning throws with San Francisco 49ers' Tarell Brown (25) and Aldon Smith (99) rushing during the second half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
San Francisco 49ers' Chris Culliver (29) watches as New York Giants' Devin Thomas (15) recovers a fumbled punt by Kyle Williams during overtime of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants' Victor Cruz (80) catches a pass in front of San Francisco 49ers' Carlos Rogers (22) during the first half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants' Ahmad Bradshaw (44) tries to run past San Francisco 49ers' Patrick Willis (52) during the first half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
San Francisco 49ers' Anthony Davis (76) loses his helmet as he scuffles with New York Giants' Michael Boley (59) during the first half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Julie Jacobson)
New York Giants tight end Bear Pascoe, right, celebrates with tight end Jake Ballard after scoring on a six-yard touchdown pass against the San Francisco 49ers during the first half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/Paul Sakuma)
New York Giantslinebacker Mathias Kiwanuka (94) and Osi Umenyiora (72) sack San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith (11) during an NFL game on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, in San Francisco. The 49ers won the game, 27-20. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants' Henry Hynoski (45) is tackled by San Francisco 49ers' Tarell Brown (25) during the first half of the NFC Championship NFL football game Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. (AP Photo/David J. Phillip)
New York Giants tight end Bear Pascoe and Jake Ballard (85) celebrate a first half touchdown during the NFC Championship football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday January 22, 2012 at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, California (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) catches a 32-yard touchdown pass during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, in San Francisco. The 49ers won the game, 27-20. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants offensive lineman David Baas (64) and David Diehl (66) pass block during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, in San Francisco. The 49ers won the game, 27-20. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants tight end Bear Pascoe scores a first half touchdown during the NFC Championship football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday January 22, 2012 at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, California (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
The New York Giants offensive line squares off at the line of scrimmage during an NFL game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Nov. 13, 2011, in San Francisco. The 49ers won the game, 27-20. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants defensive linemen Justin Tuck (91) and Jason Pierre-Paul (90) make a sack during an NFC Championship NFL football game against San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith (11) on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won the game, 20-17. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10 ) celebrates with offensive lineman David Diehl (66) after an NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won the game, 20-17. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants tight end Bear Pascoe scores a first half touchdown during the NFC Championship football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday January 22, 2012 at Candlestick Park in San Francisco, California (AP Photo/Evan Pinkus)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10 ) celebrates after an NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won the game, 20-17. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10 ) celebrates with wide receiver Hakeem Nicks (88) after an NFC Championship NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday, Jan. 22, 2012, in San Francisco. The Giants won the game, 20-17. (AP Photo/Greg Trott)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) and quarterback Eli Manning (10) celebrate as they run off the field after an NFL football game against the San Francisco 49ers in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
San Francisco 49ers quarterback Nick Mullens (4) shakes hands with New York Giants quarterback Eli Manning (10) after an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley (26) jumps past San Francisco 49ers defensive back K'Waun Williams during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) is congratulated by center Spencer Pulley after scoring against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
New York Giants free safety Antrel Rolle (26), cornerback Jayron Hosley (28) and cornerback Prince Amukamara (20) against the San Francisco 49ers during the second half of an NFL football game in San Francisco, Sunday, Oct. 14, 2012. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell (84) catches a pass over San Francisco 49ers inside linebacker Michael Wilhoite (57) during the first half of an NFL football game Sunday, Nov. 16, 2014, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Bill Kostroun)
New York Giants free safety Antrel Rolle (26) returns an interception as wide receiver Michael Crabtree (15) chases during the third quarter of an NFL football game in San Francisco, Sunday, Oct. 14, 2012. (AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill)
New York Giants free safety Antrel Rolle, left, celebrates with cornerback Prince Amukamara (20) after intercepting San Francisco 49ers quarterback Alex Smith during the third quarter of an NFL football game in San Francisco, Sunday, Oct. 14, 2012. (AP Photo/Marcio Jose Sanchez)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell (84) is congratulated by teammates after scoring the game-winning touchdown against the San Francisco 49ers during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants tight end Larry Donnell (84) comes down with a catch for the game-winning touchdown as San Francisco 49ers strong safety Antoine Bethea (41) and inside linebacker NaVorro Bowman (53) defend during the fourth quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Oct. 11, 2015, in East Rutherford, N.J. The Giants won 30-27. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard (87) celebrates after scoring a touchdown next to San Francisco 49ers cornerback D.J. Reed Jr. during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Ben Margot)
New York Giants wide receiver Sterling Shepard, top, catches a touchdown pass over San Francisco 49ers cornerback D.J. Reed Jr. (32) during the second half of an NFL football game in Santa Clara, Calif., Monday, Nov. 12, 2018. (AP Photo/Tony Avelar)
Daniel Jones (8)
Leonard Williams (99), Dalvin Tomlinson (94), Dexter Lawrence (97)
Daniel Jones (8)
Leonard Williams (99)
INJURY REPORT
Giants
Out: RB Saquon Barkley (ankle), OL Ben Bredeson (concussion), OT Andrew Thomas (hamstring), OLB Azeez Ojulari (hamstring)
Questionable: ILB Micah McFadden (neck), WR Wan'Dale Robinson (knee)
49ers
Questionable: WR Brandon Aiyuk (shoulder), CB Ambry Thomas (knee)
ANOTHER TOUGH TEST FOR DJ
Daniel Jones rebounded in Week 2, with almost all of his production coming in the second half. After throwing for just 62 yards in the first two quarters, the fifth-year quarterback became the first player in NFL history to throw for 250+ yards, run for 50+ yards, throw multiple touchdown passes, rush for a touchdown and not turn the ball over in the second half of a game.
"There were some plays out there in the first half that we didn't convert," Jones said. "I think we'll go back, and we've got to clean those up. We can't afford to start slow like that and miss opportunities early in the game to convert. So, that'll be an emphasis of ours going forward. But we did show the fight and the resolve down the stretch, and we made a lot of those plays, and found a way to win. Definitely proud of how the team responded, but there's a lot to clean up, certainly, from that first half."
For the second time in the first three weeks of the season, Jones will be faced with a tough challenge. The Dallas Cowboys and San Francisco 49ers boast two of the top defenses in the NFL. San Francisco ranked No. 1 in both points and yards allowed in 2022, and is currently ranked No. 3 in scoring so far this season. The 49ers are tied for eighth in the league with six sacks, while their four interceptions are the second-most. However, they do rank 23rd in the league with their 247.5 passing yards allowed per game.
"I think these short weeks are always—the turnaround is quick, and you've got to be able to put it behind you and get ahead, get started on the week pretty much immediately after the game," Jones said. "It can be tough, but we've got to do it. San Francisco is doing the same thing. That's a challenge this week and we'll approach it like we do all the other challenges."
O-LINE BOUNCES BACK
Jones was sacked a league-high seven times in the season opener, while Pro Football Focus had the offensive line down for 27 total pressures allowed. Against the Cardinals, Jones was sacked three times while the O-line surrendered just eight total pressures. And the analytics show just how successful Jones can be when given time in the pocket. When not under pressure, Jones completed 73.3 percent of his passes for 286 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions for a passer rating of 125.1, according to Next Gen Stats.
The Giants had a different combination of linemen up front on Sunday. Second-team All-Pro left tackle Andrew Thomas missed the game due to a hamstring injury, and is once again out this week. Filling in for Thomas at left tackle was Joshua Ezeudu, who according to PFF gave up just one total pressure against Arizona. Ben Bredeson started at left guard before a concussion forced him out of the game, which led to Mark Glowinski, who started Week 1 at right guard, to enter the game. Glowinski allowed only one pressure on 23 pass block snaps at left guard. Bredeson has also been ruled out for the Week 3 matchup.
John Michael Schmitz continued his solid play at center, as PFF had the rookie down for just one total pressure allowed. Marcus McKethan saw his first NFL action at right guard, while Evan Neal surrendered just two total pressures on 45 pass block snaps in Week 2.
Leading the 49ers in sacks through the first two weeks is second-year defensive end Drake Jackson, who has recorded three of the team's six sacks. Linebacker Fred Warner and defensive lineman Javon Hargrave have one sack apiece, while defensive lineman Kerry Hyder has San Francisco's final sack. However, you cannot discuss the 49ers pass rush without mentioning Nick Bosa. The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year, who led the league with 18.5 sacks last season, has a team-high four quarterback hits.
GIANTS CONFIDENT IN RBs
Saquon Barkley was officially ruled out Wednesday, meaning Matt Breida is likely to lead the backfield against the 49ers. The veteran back carried the ball 54 times for 220 yards and a touchdown last season, good for an average of 4.1 yards per carry, while adding 20 receptions for 118 yards. Daboll is confident in Breida if the 28-year-old is called upon to lead the way against his former team.
"He's a pro," the head coach said. "He knows what to do, he knows how to do it, he's done it for a while. He's got speed, he's got some quickness about him. He's had some productive years as a runner, he was at San Francisco. He's just a pro and he knows our system well and we have confidence in him."
"I just want to go out there and play for my team," Breida added. "At the end of the day, I'm grateful to still be playing in the NFL, you know I came undrafted, so just to be here I am blessed and whatever my team needs me to do, I'm going to do."
Breida is not the only running back that will likely see touches. Gary Brightwell recorded 31 rush attempts for 141 yards (4.5 avg.) and a score in 2022, while Eric Gray, a rookie fifth-round pick, rushed for 1,366 yards and 11 touchdowns in his final season at Oklahoma.
"I'd say the three guys that we have behind Saquon, they are all here for a reason. We are comfortable with all those guys. Whether that's run or pass. Certainly things that we could all improve on, but they are all here for a reason and if he's out there, we have confidence in him."
WALLER, HYATT SPARK OFFENSE
Darren Waller showed just how big of a piece he can be in the passing game against the Cardinals. Waller led the Giants with eight targets, which he turned into a team-high six receptions (tied with Saquon Barkley) for 76 yards. Jones' first two passes thrown to Waller fell incomplete, but the two were able to connect on the tight end's next six targets, four of which resulted in first downs.
"He's extremely levelheaded and his demeanor is always the same," Jones said about the veteran tight end. "He shows up and does his work. He's the same every day. He's consistent in that approach and has been in the league for a long time, so he's seen a lot. Kind of a steady presence in the locker room that guys can look to as a leader and I think he's been a big help for us."
Speaking of offensive playmakers, coming out of the locker room for the second half of Sunday's game, the Giants knew they needed a spark on offense. Enter Jalin Hyatt. The rookie wide receiver made big plays throughout training camp and the preseason, and in Week 2, he stepped up when the Giants needed him most.
Hyatt used his speed to blaze past the defense and haul in a 58-yard reception from Jones. Two plays later, the Giants scored their first touchdown of the season. Hyatt came up big again on the final touchdown drive, hauling in a 31-yard pass to move the Giants into the red zone. The two passes thrown to Hyatt had air yards of 43.4 and 30.2, according to Next Gen Stats, which highlights the rookie's downfield threat.
"Obviously we're just two games into it, and he's made some big plays, so we'll see how defenses adjust. But we've got to continue to make those plays and take advantage of the opportunities…" Jones said about the rookie's big-play ability. "You want receivers that want the ball. He's had that same kind of confidence and desire to make the play. We've seen that since he got here really, so got a lot of trust and confidence in him, and he played well for us."
SHANAHAN 'AN EXCELLENT COACH'
The 49ers have enjoyed a lot of success under head coach Kyle Shanahan over the last few years. Over the last four seasons, San Francisco has made it to the NFC Championship Game three times, including a trip to Super Bowl LIV. In each of those three seasons, the 49ers have been among the best in the league on both sides of the ball. Daboll praised Shanahan and his football IQ on Tuesday.
"He's done this for a long time," Daboll said about the 49ers' coach. "He has a ton of experience. He has, I'd say, a number of plays that he's run throughout his past and he's always evolving. That's what I appreciate about Kyle. He's a heck of a football coach. He creates, I'd say, a lot of issues, whether that's run force issues, whether that's making plays look exactly the same and setting things up. He's a timely play caller. He's an excellent coach."
While San Francisco has received strong coaching in recent years, let's not understate how good their roster is. The 49ers have numerous All-Pro players on both sides of the ball, led by running back Christian McCaffrey and defensive end Nick Bosa, two of the top players in the NFL at their respective positions.
"I'd say just on both sides, those two guys are heck of a players, they've got a lot of good players on their team," Daboll said about McCaffrey, Bosa & the rest of the 49ers' roster. "A team full of Pro Bowlers or All-Pros, whether it's McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, Aiyuk, Bosa, (defensive lineman Javon) Hargrave, (linebacker Fred) Warner, I mean the list goes on and on. I'd say their team is well constructed. (General Manager) John Lynch has done a great job along with Kyle and there is a lot of challenges with this team in a number of areas."
SLOWING DOWN McCAFFREY
The Giants' defense struggled to contain the Cardinals in the first half of Sunday's outing. Four of Arizona's five first-half drives resulted in points, with the fifth ending in a missed field goal, as quarterback Joshua Dobbs and running back James Conner led the Cardinals to 266 total yards of offense. But similar to the Giants' offense, the defense clamped down in the second half.
After Arizona scored a touchdown on their opening drive, the Giants held them off the scoreboard for the remainder of the game. The Cardinals totaled 48 yards on their final four drives, including two possessions that resulted in negative yards. Okereke told reporters Monday that the defense knows they can't get off to a sluggish start in Week 3.
"We've got to start fast," the linebacker said about Thursday's game. "That is a reoccurring theme in the first game and the second game, but I think we are building off momentum like I said in the second half and responding to adversity, because we are going to face more adversity throughout the season, it's a long 17-week season, especially in the postseason. So, we are going to need to lean on the lessons we learn through this adversity."
Okereke's biggest challenge on Thursday will be trying to limit 49ers running back Christian McCaffrey. The 27-year-old leads the NFL with 42 rush attempts for 268 yards and 48 total touches. He has found the end zone twice already while sporting an impressive 6.4 yards per carry. In 17 games between the 49ers and Panthers last season, McCaffrey caught 85 passes for 741 yards and five touchdowns to go with his 1,139 yards and eight touchdowns on the ground.
"His speed and acceleration are, I'd say really second to none," Okereke said about McCaffrey. "He runs with really disciplined angles, he's a downhill runner, he's a cutback runner and I think he has great vision, great speed, acceleration, so he will be a great challenge for us.
PURDY A 'POINT GUARD TYPE OF QB'
Quarterback Brock Purdy has played the majority of just eight regular season games for the 49ers dating back to last season. In those eight contests, all of which have resulted in victories, the 23-year-old has put up impressive numbers. Purdy completed 146 of 215 passes (67.9 percent) for 1,734 yards, 15 touchdowns and just three interceptions, while earning a passer rating above 110.0 in five of the outings. His lowest passer rating in that span was 88.8.
"He's a great quarterback," Thibodeaux told the media. "I actually played him way back when when he was in college in a bowl game. He's the same guy. He's obviously gotten better, but when you talk about his poise, when you talk about him just being able to deliver the ball and he doesn't really get off balance. He likes to really focus in, and he knows where to get the ball."
With Purdy under center, San Francisco has enjoyed a successful offensive start to the 2023 campaign. The 49ers scored 30 points in each of their first two games (No. 3 in the NFL) as Purdy has thrown for 426 yards and two touchdowns with no turnovers. His 86.6 QBR is currently the best in the league, due in part to his array of playmakers. Wide receivers Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk have each recorded 11 receptions on the season, while running back Christian McCaffrey and tight end George Kittle have six apiece.
"They have a really good offense," defensive lineman Leonard Williams said Tuesday. "I mean, it starts with some of their skill players, McCaffrey and Deebo, they do a good job of playing in the backfield and being a wide receiver at the same time. They have a pretty good offensive line, (tackle) Trent Williams is a really good left tackle and I think Purdy's been doing a good job of stepping up as a quarterback. We've been describing him as like a point guard type of quarterback. He gets the ball out quick and knows where to go with it."
View photos of the team traveling to San Francisco ahead of their Week 3 matchup against the 49ers.
NT Dexter Lawrence II (97)
DL Leonard Williams (99), CB Adoree' Jackson (22)
WR Sterling Shepard (3)
WR Isaiah Hodgins (18)
TE Darren Waller (12), WR Jalin Hyatt (13), WR Wan'Dale Robinson (17)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
K Graham Gano (9)
WR Parris Campbell (0)
OL Evan Neal (73)
S/ILB Isaiah Simmons (19)
WR Darius Slayton (86)
OL Joshua Ezeudu (75)
DL Rakeem Nunez-Roches Sr (93), DL A'Shawn Robinson (91)
ILB Carter Coughlin (52)
QB Daniel Jones (8)
TE Lawrence Cager (83)
S Dane Belton (24)
DT DJ Davidson (98)
ILB Micah McFadden (41)
OL Marcus McKethan (60)
S Gervarrius Owens (39)
DL Rakeem Nunez-Roches Sr (93)
TE Lawrence Cager (83)
S/ILB Isaiah Simmons (19)
OLB Oshane Ximines (53)
QB Tyrod Taylor (2)
S Jason Pinnock (27)
QB Tyrod Taylor (2)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
S/ILB Isaiah Simmons (19)
ILB Bobby Okereke (58)
S Bobby McCain (21)
CB Cor'Dale Flott (28)
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