Eagles on offense
Eagles RT Winston Justice vs. Packers OLB Clay Matthews
Matthews looks to have an advantage over his former college teammate at Southern Cal. Justice has the size, length and foot quickness to deal with Matthews’ speed rushes, but could struggle with Matthews’ many counter moves. Matthews may try to get Justice off balance and beat him with power. Justice also could have a difficult time picking up the Packers’ various blitzes. Whereas Matthews has 13 1/2 sacks on the season, Justice has given up seven sacks according to STATS. He also has been flagged four times for holding.
Packers on offense
Packers WR Donald Driver vs. Eagles CB Dimitri Patterson
Patterson wasn’t supposed to be starting for the Eagles in the playoffs and trying to cover the crafty Driver. He is the replacement corner for Ellis Hobbs, who is out for the season, and never started a game in his five previous NFL seasons. He has struggled this season. The Packers will try to create one-on-one matchups by spreading the field with their “Big Five” package, which features five wide receivers. Look for Driver to try to create separation before the throw with sharp cuts, and for him to try to maximize yards after the catch.
Dan Pompei’s pick
Packers 24, Eagles 23:
If Joe Webb and the Vikings could handle the Eagles, shouldn’t Aaron Rodgers and the Packers be able to? The Packers are playing better football than the Eagles right now, and their defense should be able to handle Michael Vick and company.
