Packers vs. Falcons: Tale of the tape ahead of NFC Championship

Linebackers

Atlanta’s linebacking corps is filled with youth. Vic Beasley is the most senior of the three starters in his second season, while rookies Deion Jones and De’Vondre Campbell line up alongside him.

Experience may not be this group’s strength, but there’s no shortage of talent. Beasley and Jones bring lightning speed to the table. Beasley, the NFL’s sack champion, does his damage off the edge, while Jones can give chase sideline to sideline in a heartbeat.

Green Bay’s linebackers boast a wealth of experience, none greater than Julius Peppers. In potentially his final season before Canton calls, Peppers is chasing the Super Bowl ring that has eluded him throughout his career. Clay Matthews, despite failing to produce like he has in years past, has been around a long time and knows how to win this deep into the postseason.

The Packers’ standout performer is Nick Perry. Signed to a one-year “prove it” deal last spring, Perry has responded with career-best numbers, posting 12 sacks this year (including postseason).

Green Bay’s inside backers still have work to do; their coverage skills have often come into question. But as a unit, the Packers win this battle.

Advantage: Green Bay