Three key matchups
1. Packers WR Greg Jennings vs. Falcons CB Brent Grimes: Jennings is perhaps the second hottest receiver in the NFL, behind Roddy White. Jennings has caught 32 passes in his past five games after catching 14 in his first five. He is tied for third in receiving touchdowns with nine. Jennings averaged 16.3 yards per catch in the past five games. The scrappy Grimes is second on the team with three interceptions and will have a busy day if the pass rush doesn't get to quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
2. Packers CB Tramon Williams vs. Falcons WR Roddy White: Williams, a former undrafted free agent from Louisiana Tech, has taken over for Charles Woodson as the Packers' top cornerback. He has nice size at 5-foot-11, 191 pounds and likely will shadow White for most of the game. He had a key interception of Brett Favre on Sunday that helped the Packers build a 17-3 halftime lead. No one has been able to slow White this season, and he torched Woodson and the Packers in Green Bay in 2008.
3. Packers LT Chad Clifton vs. Falcons DE John Abraham: Expect a well-rested Abraham to continue his assault on quarterbacks. He was rested for Sunday's game against St. Louis as a precautionary measure. He played with the same injury against Baltimore and registered two sacks. Clifton is having a spectacular season and has helped stabilize the unit with his play. The Packers don't have much of a rushing attack, so it's somewhat remarkable that the pass protection has been so stable. With improved protection, Rodgers has moved into the top 10 in passer rating. He ranks ninth with a 95.7 mark and is tied for third in touchdowns with 19.
History lesson
- This is the 24th meeting. The Packers lead the series 12-11.
- The Falcons won the previous matchup 27-24 at Lambeau Field during the 2008 season.
- The teams are 1-1 in postseason play.
- Packers running back Dimitri Nance was signed off the Falcons' practice squad Sept. 14.
- Charlie Peprah, who played two games with the Falcons last season, currently starts at safety for the Packers.
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