The Giants.com crew is presented with four statements and must decide whether they are Fact or Fiction.
Daniel Jones will lead the Giants in rushing yards on Thursday night.
Dan Salomone: Fact – Even with Barkley healthy until the second-to-last play, Jones was just about equal to the running back on the ground last week. The Giants might have to rely on Jones' legs again because 1) it's a major strength of his and 2) the 49ers have Nick Bosa.
Lance Medow: Fiction – Interestingly, in the previous seven games in which Saquon Barkley has been sidelined due to injury, Daniel Jones has never led the team in rushing. It happened three times in 2019 and four times in 2021, and in each instance, another running back topped the list. If Barkley is out of the equation, this gives the 49ers more reason to focus on Jones as a runner, and San Francisco has displayed one of the stingiest run defenses in the NFL in recent history.
Matt Citak: Fact – The 49ers rank third in the league in rushing yards allowed this season, and this comes after finishing the 2022 campaign second in the same category. The Giants are going to have to find creative ways to run the football, and this will likely involve a good amount of quarterback runs. Going into Week 3, Jones leads all quarterbacks with 102 yards on the ground this season.
The Giants and 49ers will combine for at least 60 rushing attempts.
Dan Salomone: Fact – Last season, the 49ers and Giants were seventh and eighth in in the NFL in run-to-pass play selection, respectively. These teams want to run the ball, setting up what could be grinding game on the short week.
Lance Medow: Fiction – The 49ers have a very effective run game led by Christian McCaffrey, but they also use short passes as an extension of it. So, it doesn't always have to come through the rushing attack. Players like Deebo Samuel and Brandon Aiyuk are elusive, and once they get in open space, if you can't tackle, it can be a major problem. In each of San Francisco's first two games, the 49ers and their opponents have combined for 50 rushing attempts or fewer.
Matt Citak: Fiction – Sixty is a large number. In each of San Francisco's first two games, they combined with their opponent for a total of 44 and 50 carries. The Giants got a lot closer in their first two games, combining with the Cowboys and Cardinals for 58 and 56 rush attempts, respectively. Add in the fact that Saquon Barkley might not play and that the 49ers' defense is a lot more susceptible through the air than on the ground, and I can't see the two teams reaching 60 total rush attempts, even with Jones' possible increased rushing.
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)
Christian McCaffrey is the toughest individual matchup for the Giants' defense this season.
Dan Salomone: Fact – McCaffrey is the only player with at least 1,200 scrimmage yards and 10 touchdowns since making his first start for the 49ers in Week 8 of last season. San Francisco is 12-0 in games that McCaffrey has started.
Lance Medow: Fact – The Giants will see several versatile receivers down the road, but what makes Christian McCaffrey unique is he's just as dangerous catching the ball out of the backfield as he is as a conventional runner. He leads the NFL in rushing through two games and has already posted a pair of 100-yard contests, plus he's averaging six yards per reception. Although the sample size this season is small, he's more than capable of going off as a receiver.
Matt Citak: Fiction – This was a tough one, as Christian McCaffrey is right up there with the best in the NFL when it comes to dual-threat running backs. However, I have to go with Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who was named first-team All-Pro in three of his first six seasons, in addition to making the Pro Bowl all six years. While most of that production came with Kansas City, Hill picked up right where he left off as soon as he landed in Miami. Keeping up with Hill's speed will be a daunting challenge for the Giants defense in Week 5.
The 49ers' defense is more of a challenge than their offense.
Dan Salomone: Fact – The 49ers lead the NFL in scoring and total defense since 2022. They also have multiple takeaways in each of their last five games.
Lance Medow: Fiction – You can easily make a case for both. The 49ers' defense showcases the likes of Nick Bosa, Arik Armstead, Javon Hargrave and Fred Warner, just to name a few, and has play-makers at every level. On the flip side, you have to deal with speed, athleticism and huge play-making ability given the presence of Christian McCaffrey, Deebo Samuel, Brandon Aiyuk and George Kittle as well as an offensive line built to aid those unique players. San Francisco's offense is tough to contain because you can't afford to have an off day when it comes to tackling. If you struggle with fundamentals, you don't give yourself much of a chance against Kyle Shanahan and company.
Matt Citak: Fiction – Picking between the San Francisco offense and defense is basically having to decide between the lesser of two evils. Both units are elite and among the best in the NFL, as each one boasts numerous All-Pros. But I have to give the very slight edge to the offense, due mostly to the presence of Kyle Shanahan. The head coach is among the top offensive-minded coaches in the entire NFL. The fact that they lost their top two quarterbacks last year, handed the offense over to a rookie QB that was the last pick in the draft with two weeks left in the regular season, and still made it to the NFC Championship Game was remarkable. And if Purdy hadn't gotten hurt in that game, they might have even made it to the Super Bowl. Of course, the defense played a crucial role in last year's success, but I'm still giving the nod to Shanahan's offense.
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