Packers Vs. Eagles: 2011 NFL Wildcard Playoffs TV Time & Predictions

The 2011 NFL Wildcard playoff game between the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles (host) is set for Sunday January 9 (4:30 PM EST) at Lincoln Financial Field. FOX channel will provide TV coverage for this game. Green Bay was second in the NFC North, with a record of 10-6; Philadelphia won the NFC East, with an identical record. This article offers TV time and predictions for the 2011 Packers-Eagles NFC playoff game.

1) Packers-Eagles Head to Head

The final game of the 2011 NFL Wildcard Playoffs features two exciting offensive teams in the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles. Since 2000, the two teams have met 8 times with the Eagles leading the series 5-3. Most of their meetings have been close contests. The last time Green Bay and Philadelphia meet was in 2010; the Packers won that game by the score of 27-20.

2) Aaron Rodgers vs. Michael Vick

Sunday's primetime game showcases two of the league's most exciting quarterbacks in Aaron Rodgers and Michael Vick. Both QBs have enjoyed a fantastic season, playing a central role in their teams' advancement to the playoffs. For the season, Green Bay's Rodgers has accumulated 3922 passing yards, 28 TDs, and a QB rating of 101. Philadelphia's Vick has been no less impressive. In only 12 starts, the Eagles' starter has amassed 3694 total yards, 30 TDs (9 rush), and QB rating of 100. The two quarterbacks are credited as having led their respective teams to the postseason. Based on current form, Aaron Rodgers is a slightly better quarterback at the moment as Vick has struggled recently.

3) Mike McCarthy vs. Andy Reid

It is highly probable that the 2011 NFC Wildcard match-up between the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles will be the most entertaining game in the whole postseason. Both teams come into this contest, ranking in the top 10 in most offensive categories. Moreover, each team is anchored by a top-rated quarterback who is enjoying a career year. Needless to say, this game has all the ingredients for a NFL classic. One should expect this contest to be a high-scoring affair.

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The Green Bay Packers enter this playoff game as perhaps the most rounded team in the NFL. Mike McCarthy's team is tremendous at both ends of the field. Offensively, the Packers rank 10th in points scored and 5th in passing yards. On the defensive end, Green Bay has been surprisingly effective placing second overall in points allowed and 5th in passing defense. While Aaron Rodgers is credited for having led the team to the playoffs, it is Green Bay's defense that compelled the Packers to key wins over New York and Chicago. If Mike McCarthy's crew is to win this contest, its defense will have to come up big once again.

For the Philadelphia Eagles, it has been a case of separating identity. When the team is on, it is capable of beating any NFL team. This is clearly evident in Philadelphia's victories over Atlanta, Indianapolis, and NY Giants. But when it is not, the team would struggle against even second-string teams. This inconsistency is a huge concern especially as the team prepares to take on the Packers, who will look to take advantage of this glaring weakness.

Another big concern for Andy Reid's team is the recent string of poor performances by Michael Vick. The team's starting quarterback has thrown at least 1 INT in his last 5 games. What has been the reason behind his recent struggles? Could it be that other teams have finally found a way to stop Vick? These questions must be addressed quickly, if the team is to win this contest and advance further into the playoffs. Fortunately, Andy Reid is the ideal coach to have this sorted out.

My prediction for the 2011 NFC Wildcard playoff game between the Green Bay Packers and Philadelphia Eagles: the Packers win 28-24. Kickoff time for the game is 4:30 PM EST. The game will be played at Lincoln Financial Field, and will be broadcast by FOX channel.

Reference:
ESPN.COM