Expect Arizona's talented safety Adrian Wilsonto play in close to assist with the running game. That means the Arizona cornerbacks will be covering the receivers virtually man-to-man. Cornerback Rod Hood has been especially prone to giving up touchdowns lately (four in the last three games) and expect the Falcons to go to his side of the field often on Saturday.
Win the Turnover Battle
Simply put, the Falcons can't give up possessions.
They've escaped three times this season with wins in games in which they turned the ball over three times. They were fortunate to overcome them, but they can't get away with it again in the playoffs.
Arizona has forced 10 fumbles this season, tied for fifth-most in the league. They also have 13 interceptions, tied with four teams for 17th. Atlanta must value every possession against this team and if nothing else, protect the ball and maintain field position.
On offense Arizona is prone to the turnover. In their last six games (in which they're 2-4), they've averaged two giveaways in each game.
If Atlanta can limit their mistakes on offense and force the Cardinals to maintain that turnover average and capitalize on them, it could go a long way toward helping Atlanta create the cushion they may need to outscore Arizona's offense.
Keep An Eye On the Cardinals' Running Backs
While the Falcons can't completely abandon their run defense, the passing game is clearly going to be the focus of the defense.
The Cardinals are the worst rushing team in the league, averaging only 73.6 yards per game. However, running back Edgerrin James gained 100 yards last week against the Seahawks.
Prior to that, in the last nine games, his highest rushing total was 19 yards (three games he did not even play).
With all the focus Atlanta expects to put on the Cardinals receivers in the passing game, Arizona could conceivably look to include the running backs in the passing game.
Arizona's three running backs have totaled 75 receptions this season, which could be an effective way of beating the Falcons' focus on the three wide receivers. With the safeties helping in pass coverage, the running backs could find openings for pass receptions.
This article originally appeared on the Atlanta Falcons Examiner page. To view, go here.
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