NFL Playoff Predictions: Predicting This Weekend's Star WRs

The aerial attack rules today's NFL, so it's not surprising that there are a handful of talented receivers left in the divisional round.

Let's take a look at the best pass-catching performances we'll see this weekend.  

Demaryius Thomas, Denver Broncos

Thomas exploded with four catches for 204 yards and the game-winning, 80-yard touchdown in over time last week. What's more, he did all of his work on the Pittsburgh Steelers' ace cornerback Ike Taylor. 

While the Broncos certainly don't have the most intimidating receiving corps in the NFL, Thomas is a former first-round pick and a matchup nightmare. He's 6'3'', a chiseled 235 pounds and it looks like his speed is coming back after injuring his knee last season.

The New England Patriots' defensive backs will have their hands full on Saturday evening. 

Torrey Smith, Baltimore Ravens

I expect the Houston Texans' No. 1 cornerback Johnathan Joseph to be tied up with Anquan Boldin, which will leave Smith—the rookie burner who averaged nearly 17 yards per catch this season—on one of the inferior defensive backs. 

The Ravens' dedication to Ray Rice will lead to many play-action passes in which quarterback Joe Flacco will look for Smith down the field.

In a game that will be defensive-minded and feature a ton of running plays, Smith will be the X-factor.  

Victor Cruz, New York Giants 

Cruz was held to two catches for 28 yards against the Atlanta Falcons on Sunday. Hakeem Nicks erupted with six grabs for 115 yards and two scores with much of the attention on Cruz. 

This week, the Giants look to get the ball to No. 80 in a variety of different ways and will take a few shots on "go routes."

The Packers gave up the most passing yardage in the NFL this season, so expect Eli Manning and all of his pass-catchers to have a good afternoon in Lambeau 

Robert Meachem, New Orleans Saints

Marques Colston is the most reliably dangerous receiver for Drew Brees and the Saints. He's caught at least seven passes in his last five games and accumulated 120 receiving yards against the Detroit Lions last week. 

However, with Pro Bowl corner Carlos Rogers assigned to him this week, Brees will be forced to look elsewhere in order to move the football down the field. 

Colston will not be shut down, but the talents of Robert Meachem will certainly be on full display. 

Don't be shocked to see Brees connect with the former Tennessee Volunteers standout on deep plays that come out of play-action.