Falcons C Joe Hawley vs. Packers NT B.J. Raji: Hawley has taken over for Peter Konz, who started nine games, and stabilized the position. Raji is the type of behemoth who could give the smallish Hawley fits. Hawley will have to scrap and get some help from guards Justin Blalock and Konz. Raji is not having one of his better seasons, but remains an interior force.
Falcons RB Steven Jackson vs. Packers SS Morgan Burnett: Jackson looked as if he had a flashback last week against the Bills. He showed that he can still wear down a defense, as he rushed for 84 yards on 23 carries and scored two touchdowns. Burnett, who played at Georgia Tech and North Clayton High, is not coming off of one of his better games, as he had four of the Packers' 14 missed tackles against Detroit. The ball-hawk did come up with two fumble recoveries and returned one for a touchdown.
Falcons WR Roddy White vs. Packers CB Sam Shields: White has battled through a right high ankle sprain and a left hamstring injury this season. He had a season-high 10 catches for 143 yards last week against Buffalo. He finally appeared healthy after struggling to get open since returning Nov. 10 from the hamstring injury. Shields matched up against Detroit's Calvin Johnson on Thanksgiving Day and competed fiercely. He battled Johnson deep while digging out a jump ball in the end zone before making a spectacular end-zone interception, his only one of the season.
About the Author