The San Francisco 49ers enter Week 9 looking to rebound from a frustrating 26–15 loss to the Houston Texans and reassert control in the NFC West race. This week’s matchup against the New York Giants presents a chance to get back on track but only if the 49ers can execute in three key areas.

1. Protect the Football and Control Possession

While turnovers weren’t the main story last week, the 49ers committed just one interception from Mac Jones, the timing of it still swung momentum. Against a Giants defense that thrives on short fields and quick-change opportunities, ball security will again, and always be crucial. Protecting possessions and sustaining long drives will allow the Niners to dictate tempo and keep Jaxson Dart and the Giants’ offense off the field.

2. Keep the Offense Creative and Hammer the Run 

Even with key injuries, head coach Kyle Shanahan’s offense is most effective when it stays unpredictable. Expect Christian McCaffrey to remain the centerpiece, both as a rusher and a receiver, but look for George Kittle to continue creating mismatches in motion and in the slot and even a couple 12 personnel looks with Jake Tonges getting in the mix as well.

As long as Trent Williams and the offensive line continue to hold strong in protection and open lanes in the run game, San Francisco should be able to control the tempo on the ground. The Giants currently rank No. 30 in the NFL in rushing yards allowed per game, making this a prime opportunity for McCaffrey and the Niners' ground attack to carry the offense to victory.

3. Win the Line of Scrimmage on Defense

For San Francisco, winning up front is the key to disrupting any offensive rhythm the Giants can produce with quarterback Jaxon Dart. Tatum Bethune and Bryce Huff need to collapse the pocket and make Dart uncomfortable, while Renardo Green’s ability to handle one-on-one coverage will be vital with Fred Warner and Nick Bosa sidelined.

This week also marks the first for newly acquired defensive end Keion White, whom the 49ers traded for from the New England Patriots. While fans are eager to see what the explosive pass rusher can bring, it’s unlikely we’ll see White take the field right away as he spends time learning San Francisco’s defensive system. Expect him to begin rotating into the lineup next week, potentially giving the Niners a much-needed boost in the pass rush as the season rolls on.

Bottom Line

The 49ers don’t need to reinvent the wheel to get back in the win column. If they protect the football, stay creative offensively, and play disciplined team defense, they have every chance to get right against the Giants. This week is about proving that even through adversity, San Francisco still has the roster to compete with anyone in the NFC.