The Packers and Falcons will be meeting for the second time this season in the NFC Championship game. The Falcons won the first match up 33-32. Here are five key match up to watch for in this game.
Matt Ryan Vs. The Packers Secondary: Matt Ryan threw for 288 yards and 3 touchdown passes in the first meeting between these two teams. Ryan should put up similar numbers in this game.
Green Bay’s secondary is banged up and they have really struggled, especially in man coverage. Ryan should have a big game against a secondary that is lacking confidence right now.
Ladarius Gunter vs. Julio Jones: Ladarius Gunter is the Packers best cover corner right now and that’s not saying much because Gunter struggled last week against Dez Bryant. Bryant caught 9 passes for 132 yards and two touchdowns against him.
Julio Jones gives the Falcons a match up advantage. Look for the Falcons to go to Jones early and often. Gunter’s saving grace might that Jones is still battling foot problems and he won’t be 100%.
Vic Beasley vs. David Bakhtiari: Bakhtiari got banged up against the Cowboys last week so he won’t be 100%. That is not good for the Packers because Bahktiari will have to block NFC sack leader Vic Beasley one on one. If he can’t handle Beasley by himself, the Packers will have problems offensively.
Beasley has been a pass rushing terror the second half of the season. He is playing at a high level right now and he sets the tone for an athletic defense that can generate consistent pressure.
Falcons Offensive Line vs. Packers Defensive Line: The Falcons running game is one of the best rushing attacks in the NFL. The two headed monster of Davonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman get all the credit but the Falcons offensive line has been one of the best run blocking units in the league. Atlanta’s offensive line is the only unit in the NFL to start every game together this season. Continuity is important, especially along the offensive line. The Falcons have it.
The Packers defensive line has been solid all season despite struggling last week against Ezekiel Elliott. They will have their hands full this week against Atlanta’s potent rushing attack. Which ever line dominates the line of scrimmage, will play a major role in their team winning this game.
Falcons Safeties vs. Packers Tight Ends: The Packers are tough to defend when they are in 12 personnel (2 TE’s 1 RB, 2 WR) because Jared Cook and Richard Rodgers can create match up problems for opposing defenses.
Both Rodgers and Cook scored against the Cowboys last week. Dallas’ safeties and linebackers had a hard time covering them.
Atlanta’s safety tandem of Ricardo Allen and Keanu Neal must match up against Rodgers and Cook vertically because if they don’t, Aaron Rodgers will pick them apart.