The New York Giants once again beat the Green Bay Packers at home in the playoffs. While Green Bay had a slight edge with their high powered offense, the Giants entered the playoffs with a lot of momentum including winning the last game of the season to make it in. In a way, the Giants are playing with the same momentum and urgency as the 2007 team.
One common theme was that in 2007, Tom Coughlin faced a similar lame duck situation, and was able to adjust his coaching methods to win the emotional support of the locker room. Now, Coughlin has one year left on his contract and has successfully rallied his players and pleaded with them to put in 110%. The Giants have played hard and tough, and they beat the Packers with tough defense and solid offense. Eli Manning continues his climb as an elite quarterback.
The 49ers and Giants game next week should be a close game. Both teams have about equal talent. But the coaching edge is given to Jim Harbaugh who is not just a demanding coach, but a positive energetic coach who has successfully motivated his players to play beyond their abilities. I think the 49ers will find a way to win next week.