As is so often the case when two defensive powerhouses collide, field position becomes the factor that most likely makes or breaks the game, and in this weekend's contest between New York and San Francisco, it could make or break their seasons.

In a game in which yards are going to be hard to come by, it will be crucial for each team to capitalize on every opportunity they get. Translation: don't be surprised if footballs are flying off cleats at every chance they get. That's what these two teams do best.

No team in NFL history had ever attempted, or converted, as many field goals in a single season as the 49ers did this past fall, and David Akers is the man responsible for those feats. The 13-year verteran kicker connected on a league-best 44 field goals out of 52 attempts and made seven of nine from fify yards out or longer. No one saw this record breaking season coming, especially since his 2010 campaign ended with two missed cheap shots in a playoff game for Philadelphia; a game in which his team lost by just five points. But that was then and this is now, and with Akers' morale through the roof, look for his kicks to go through the up-right come Sunday.

Kicking on the other side of the ball is a man who is no stranger to big pressure situations either, Lawrence Tynes of the New York Giants. In fact, it was just four years ago to the day that Tynes converted on a 47 yard field goal in overtime to send Big Blue to the Super Bowl, extending their improbable playoff run. With mental toughness playing such a huge role in the kicking game, it can't be overstated how much of an advantage confidence plays in the equation.

Going into battle with a warrior who has succeeded in this situation before weighs heavier than any regular season accomplishment ever could. Both kickers are ready, willing and able to get the job done, but I'll take the guy who has proved it under pressure every time. Like the saying goes "defense wins championships", but look for the field goal kickers to determine who wins this game on Sunday.

Dan Chiavetta is the Editor-in-Chief of the 2 man weave.