#5(Atlanta Falcons) vs. #4(New York Giants)
When: Sunday, January 8th, 2012. 10:00 PST (FOX)
Where: MetLife Stadium East Rutherford, New Jersey
Previous Match-up: (None)
After barley squeaking into the playoffs on the final day win over the Cowboys, the Giants find themselves in a favorable match-up against the Atlanta Falcons. The Giants are another very pass-oriented offense, and they are going up against a defense that has struggled against the pass, though not the run. This favors the Giants. They should be able to ride Eli Manning and Pro Bowl "snub" Victor Cruz, who had over 1500 yard receiving and 9 TDs. Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs have had their moments, but they aren't anything special. The defense is the Giants main weak point, unable to defend the pass with any consistently and struggle against the run too.
The Falcons should be able to attack that weakness with both QB Matt Ryan and RB Michael Turner (assuming he plays). Ryan enjoyed his new receiver Julio Jones, and Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez continue to be reliable to Ryan. And Turner had yet another solid year for the Falcons. But thats the thing with this team, they are all just solid. They don't do anything exceptionally great, but they don't do anything too bad either. The Falcons pass defense has been inconsistent this year, they will need to be on top of their game to stop Eil Manning.
Keys to the Game: (Falcons)
1) Prevent the Big Play- The Giants usually find their offense with a big drive or two, resulting in quick points. If the Falcons can hold Cruz in check and prevent the big plays, the Giants offense becomes stagnant.
2) Get Turner Going- Michael Turner is a volume runner, meaning when the offense flows, he goes. But if the Falcons can't get any rhythm on offense, Turner won't be a factor. Turner can be the guy for the Falcons, they need to find a way to get him into the game.
3) Rush Eli- The Falcons are a very good pass rushing team, even if the numbers don't show it. The Giants aren't best best at protection and Eli isn't the most mobile, but he can get around. The Giants will pass the ball, so he will be spending plenty of time in the pocket.
Keys to the Game: (Giants)
1) Throw the Ball- But don't be so predictable. Victor Cruz is a mis-match for anyone, but the Falcons will tighten coverage up on him. Throw the ball to other targets, and keep them honest with the running game.
2) Seize the Momentum- Coming off of big wins over the Jets and Cowboys to roar into the playoffs, the Giants are coming in hot. They need to ride the hot streak and keep it going.
3) Stop Tony Gonzalez- Gonzalez provides match-up problems at the Tight End position. When the Falcons approach the redzone, tighten up on Gonzalez.I personally don't see this match-up as one of the more enticing ones, but it could shape up to be exciting. Victor Cruz is always fun to watch and we have to keep an eye on at least one Manning right? But I think the Falcons are just too balanced overall for the Giants to handle.
Final Verdict- Falcons 24, Ginats 17.
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