Giants vs. Packers: Breakdown and Predictions for NFC Divisional Round Matchup

The Green Bay Packers are ready to host the New York Giants this Sunday afternoon in what should be a thrilling game. 

We've seen this two teams go head-to-head earlier in the year, and that showdown was one of the best regular-season games of 2011. 

The defense is questionable for both teams, but they each have an offense that can score at will thanks to superb quarterback play as well as solid receivers. 

With that said, here's a breakdown and prediction of this pivotal NFL playoff game.  

When: Sunday, Jan. 15 at 4:30 p.m. ET 

Where: Lambeau Field, Green Bay, WI 

Watch: FOX

Betting Line: Green Bay (-8) 

Keys to New York Win 

The Giants need a strong performance from Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs. Success with the ground and pound will make it even easier to pass on the Packers. 

Plus, chewing up the clock with a good run game will keep Aaron Rodgers off the field, resulting in fewer opportunities to for the reigning Super Bowl MVP to put points on the board.

In addition to this, Eli Manning has to take care of the ball. Costly errors will greatly increase the chances of Green Bay winning, as well as intensify the anger around the city of New York, which is something that definitely doesn't need to happen. 

Keys to Green Bay Win 

Stopping the run is a big priority for Green Bay but, honestly, all the Packers have to do is let Rodgers do his thing. 

He's been on fire all season long, and with a week off to rest, he'll be ready to start another run toward the Super Bowl. 

Having led the Packers to a game-winning drive in their previous meeting, Rodgers' confidence is sky high for this game. Playing smart football is key for him because turnovers will devastate Green Bay. The Giants have proven they can score quickly, which is why protecting the ball is a must.

Every possession counts in this game.  

Giants Player to Watch 

Every offensive playmaker is one to watch for the Giants this Sunday, but the main focus for fans and even non-New York fans needs to be on Jason Pierre-Paul. 

The talented defensive end recorded 16.5 sacks on the year, but failed to bring down Matt Ryan last weekend. He did have eight tackles in the game, but New York desperately needs him to bring down Rodgers. 

Keep a watch on him because if he's able to sack Rodgers, it will disrupt the Packers flow, which will not only pump up the Giants defense, but also excite the offense. 

Packers Player to Watch 

Of course you're going to watch Rodgers, so let's think outside the box here. 

With Greg Jennings back, the Giants defense will focus on shutting him down, which in turn will allow Jordy Nelson to make big plays. 

Nelson doesn't get the credit he deserves, but he should deliver a great game this Sunday. He leads the team in receptions, receiving yards and touchdown catches. Keep and eye on him because he's probably going to burst pass the Giants secondary for a monster play. 

Prediction 

Defense will be an afterthought in this game, so expect another high-scoring affair that comes down to the wire. Rodgers and Manning will put up stellar numbers, but in the end, the one that makes the fewest mistakes will come out on top. 

Look for Manning to throw an interception at a key moment, which will allow the Packers to put more points on the board and eventually walk away victorious. 

Packers 38, Giants 34