49ers vs. Packers: Key Matchups to Watch in NFC Showdown

Alex Smith was chosen ahead of Aaron Rodgers as the first player taken in the 2005 NFL draft . Sunday, they’ll duel again on national TV as the NFC’s two top seeds from last season, the San Francisco 49ers and Green Bay Packers, square off.

That battle will be one matchup on viewers' radar. After months of preparation, arguably the NFL’s best offense (Green Bay) and defense (San Francisco) will test each other.

Let the chess match begin.

QB Aaron Rodgers vs. LB Patrick Willis

Apologies to Alex Smith, but both teams’ true quarterbacks will be engaged in a tactical battle all afternoon: Rodgers on offense against Willis on defense.

Rodgers is widely regarded as one of the game's most accurate quarterbacks, utilizing the Green Bay’s West Coast attack to perfection en route to a Super Bowl victory two years ago and MVP honors last season.

On the other hand, the last time Rodgers faced a defensive line similar to San Francisco's, the New York Giants eliminated his Packers in last year's NFC Divisional Round.

Willis holds the key to how San Francisco will adjust to Green Bay’s no-huddle and quick passing game. Willis is a three-down player, so he’ll be a constant thorn for Packers TE Jermichael Finley as well.

WR Randy Moss vs.  DB Charles Woodson and Green Bay Secondary

Will Moss break through in his first regular-season game back from retirement? That depends on Woodson and the Green Bay DBs’ priorities.

If the Packers want to crowd the box to try to disrupt San Francisco’s strong rushing attack, they’ll leave themselves susceptible to a downfield strike to No. 84.

That’s why the 49ers could be even more dangerous than last year. The acquisition of Moss and Mario Manningham gives them established threats who can challenge the secondary’s deep thirds.

Check the history books. Manningham has a Super Bowl highlight to his name. Moss has his entire highlight reel embedded in NFL lore.

Whether Woodson will attach himself to Moss or match up with different receivers throughout the game is unclear.

He better be on alert, though. For this 49er team, all it takes is one deep pass to change the complexion of their game plan.

49ers Offensive Line vs. Green Bay Pass Rush

Keeping Alex Smith upright will be one of San Francisco’s keys to victory.

The Green Bay pass-rushers, though, will certainly have a say in how Smith’s day goes. The Packers drafted defensive end Nick Perry to terrorize opposing passers.

Combined with the occasional blitz from defensive stud Clay Matthews, the Packers should get their licks on Smith. But 49ers coach Jim Harbaugh will have his offensive line prepared for Green Bay’s aggressive play.

For 60 minutes of football, though? Smith better have his running shoes on tight.