Giants are hamstrung without Boley

Tom Coughlin disputed the statement by Justin Tuck that the one defensive player the Giants could least afford to lose is Michael Boley. But then the coach offered some insight to the contrary.

"Michael's very important to us," Coughlin said. "He's our middle backer. He communicates. He's played very, very well. We want to get him back as fast as we possibly can."

Boley left Sunday's game against the 49ers with a hamstring injury late in the first half. Coughlin described his status as "day-to-day," but it's clear the Giants are not counting on him to be ready for Sunday night's game against the Eagles.

If Boley can't play, rookie Greg Jones likely would run the defensive huddle from middle linebacker and fellow rookie Spencer Paysinger would play at outside linebacker in base and some sub packages. Neither player distinguished himself in the second half of the 49ers game.

Bradshaw back?The Giants played the last two games without starting running back Ahmad Bradshaw. They'd like to avoid a third, but that depends on how well he reacts to the stress fracture in his right foot. Bradshaw could return to practice this week, although he certainly would be limited. "There is no sense speculating," Coughlin said. "He's going to have to go out and practice and he's certainly had a couple of good, solid weeks of rest. Hopefully he'll be able to do some things.''

Giant steps

Coughlin also described cornerback Aaron Ross (thigh contusion) as "day-to-day" . . . Asked if 49ers linebacker Patrick Willis was holding tight end Jake Ballard on the Giants' final offensive play, Coughlin said: "I think it's safe to say that was defensive holding, yes."