Packers vs Cardinals Preview

By Ryan Foray
The Final matchup in the Wildcard Round is once again a rematch from week 17. The jets and the Cowboys both handled business two weekends in a row convincingly, and the Packers look to do the same. Green bay is coming off a 33-7 knockout win over the Cardinals, and they will have to do it again in Arizona. The Reigning NFC Champions are looking to make another run to the Super Bowl, and if Kurt Warner to Larry Fitzgerald can be a magical combo as it was last year, today’s game could be a lot of fun.

Why the Packers will win: New York and Dallas handled business…so why not? Aaron Rodgers is progressing to become a great QB in this league. He will not be a Brett Farve, but bringing a Lombardi trophy back to title town would not be bad at all for the Green Bay Fans. Look for the Packers offense to try to be relentless. Plus, if their defense can keep up their psycho formation like it has all season, things could get ugly for the Cardinals offense.
Why the Cardinals will win: Larry Fitzgerald will have to get open and get open quick. Anquan Boldin is more than likely out for today, and this will put some pressure on Kurt Warner to get the ball spread out. Also look for the Cardinals to push their combo on the running game.

Surprise factor: The Amount of Scoring. I’m calling this game a track meet. Look for the ball to be flying all day and don’t be surprised if you see at least 45 points between the two teams by halftime.

Prediction: Before I make a prediction, let me talk about Kurt Warner. After hearing the reports this morning that Kurt Warner may retire after this season, I really hope that the Cardinals do not lose today. Warner is one of my all time favorite players to watch. I remember being a kid watching him have that magical season with the Rams, leading them to a Super Bowl title. He should have three in my opinion, only losing to a Field Goal by Adam Vinatieri and a Santonio Holmes touchdown grab. Getting to the Super Bowl is hard, but getting there as the starting quarterback for two different teams is amazing. He has 2 MVPs and has been a true gentle figure in the NFL. He will be in Canton, Ohio when it’s all said and done.
As for the game, I do see the Packers winning the track meet. A little part of me will smile if the Cardinals win, but either way it should be a great game.
Packers 38, Cardinals 33