Muscle Sport Magazine

NFL Playoff Preview – Green Bay Packers at Philadelphia Eagles

Hot versus cold. That’s the back story for the NFC Wild Card match-up at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday and it may come into play, regardless of the opinion that the playoffs is a fresh start for everyone. Take a look at the way the Green Bay Packers ended the season on such a high note and the Philadelphia Eagles limping their way to Week 18.

NFC WILD CARD

Green Bay Packers (6) at PHILADELPHIA EAGLES (3)

The Pack needed to win their last two games to ensure their spot and did just that, laying waste of the New York Giants and then holding on to knock off the NFC North Division champion Chicago Bears. Their defense, led by linebacker Clay Matthews, has been on their game and will be the difference in this contest.

Matthews, who earned his second consecutive trip to the Pro Bowl after finishing with 13.5 sacks, has the speed and strength to keep Eagles signal caller Michael Vick in check, especially considering that he is coming off a quad injury. Vick has been off in the last five games, throwing six interceptions after not doing so in the previous seven. By holding Philly’s best weapon down, Green Bay will allow their offense some precious time on the field to put the ball in the end zone.

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That unit is led by Aaron Rodgers, who has returned after two concussions and looks to be in good health. When the offense is clicking, the Packers can light up the scoreboard. They will rely more on their passing attack after struggling on the ground after workhorse back Ryan Grant went down early. Brandon Jackson and fan favorite John Kuhn have done an admirable job, but Rodgers will have to look downfield to wideouts Greg Jennings and Donald Driver to get it done.

For Philadelphia, big-play receivers DeSean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin will have to get themselves on the highlight film. Vick will need to use his arm as well as his feet. The Eagles can score with the Packers and this game may well indeed turn into a shootout. The weather is always a concern at this time of year, but these are two teams that do not concern themselves with small things such as below freezing temps or snow.

A possible scenario is the Eagles set up for the tying field goal in the waning moments of the game and David Akers hitting it wide.

PREDICTION:

Green Bay Packers – 27, PHILADELPHIA EAGLES – 24

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