Falcons vs Giants: 3 Players in the Spotlight in Wild Card Game

While the offensive talent of both teams will be huge determinants in the New York Giants vs. Atlanta Falcons Wild Card battle on Sunday, one key defender will be in the spotlight all afternoon.  

Let's take a look at that menacing defensive player and the two other individuals that you must keep an eye on in this one. 

Jason Pierre-Paul, Giants 

This second-year pass-rusher burst onto the scene in 2011, totaling 16.5 sacks en route to a Pro Bowl selection. 

The Falcons are extremely balanced, with Michael Turner toting the rock and the likes of Julio Jones, Roddy White and Tony Gonzalez creating matchup problems in the secondary. 

If Pierre-Paul can fluster Matt Ryan and force him into hurried decisions, New York will have a great chance to move on to the divisional round. 

Julio Jones, Falcons 

Stopping the productive Roddy White will be the focus of the Giants' defensive game plan. No pass-catcher was targeted more than the UAB product this season (181). 

Jones is the guy to watch. 

With most of the attention on White, he could be in for a monster game. 

He's really come to life over the last month, catching 19 passes along with six touchdowns. 

Jones is the key to the Falcons' upset bid. 

Victor Cruz 

Outside of Calvin Johnson, has there been a more exciting receiver than Victor Cruz over the last two games? 

No way. 

He racked up a whopping 342 yards on nine catches with two touchdowns when the Giants needed it most. 

His acceleration is eye-opening and he's deceptively fast in the open field. 

Expect the Giants to feature him on a variety of different routes.