San Francisco 49ers (14-3) vs. New York Giants (11-7)

The San Francisco 49ers got an improbable win over the Saints in the final minute last weekend as Alex Smith turned in a Montana like effort.  He might have to do that again this Sunday as the Giants looked pretty damn good in thumping the Packers at Lambeau Field last weekend.  Here is a look at the matchups in the NFC Championship Game: When the 49ers have the ball:  The 49ers are going to come out running the ball with Frank Gore and Kendall Hunter in this game.  They should have success on the ground as the Giants are a little soft in the middle and at linebacker.  The Niners need to establish a good running game to A.) keep the clock moving, B.) slow the Giants pass rush and C.) keep the Giants offense on the sideline.  If the Niners are forced to be one dimensional by throwing the ball in this game, QB Alex Smith is going to get battered and bruised.  The Niners have had protection issues at times this year, but for Smith to have a chance to make some big plays down the field&...