The NFC championship between the number one seeded Atlanta Falcons and number two seeded 49ers has the word excitement written all over it. These two teams go into the game with both of their QBs earning their first career playoff victory, Matt Ryan (Falcons) and Colin Kaepernick (49ers).
Matchup to watch: The 49ers defense is ranked 3rd in the league and has pro bowlers all around including: Linebackers Patrick Willis, Navarro Bowman, and Aldon Smith; Defensive end, Justin Smith; and Safeties Donte Whitner and Dashon Goldson. These safeties have been a tandem that have led them to a defense ranked 3rd in the league. But can they stop stud receivers Julio Jones and Roddy White, one of the best receiving tandems in the league? Shutting down these two which is easier said than done will be the key to the 49ers success.
X Factor– The X factor in this game for both teams is the 49ers’ Carlos Rogers who has the tough matchup of covering either Roddy White or Julio Jones. Him shutting at least one of them down is crucial for the 49ers. For the Falcons the X factor is Tony Gonzalez. With the focus for the 49ers being the Falcons receivers look for Matt Ryan to find his safety blanket often and early.
Prediction– With the Falcons having home field, a more experienced QB the advantage is clearly in their favor. Falcons win a close one 23-20.