SPORTS N STUFF

TIME: 06:30 P.M. EST
VENUE: Lucas Oil Stadium

Four years ago, the New York Giants pulled off one of the most stunning upsets in Super Bowl history, defeating the unbeaten and heavily favored New England Patriots.

Come Sunday night, the teams will be at it again for the NFL championship, but this time the Giants wont be sneaking up on another outstanding Patriots team that will be looking for revenge.

Eli Manning leads upstart New York into Indianapolis Lucas Oil Stadium to face Tom Brady and New England in Super Bowl XLVI, with the Giants quarterback playing for the title on the home field of brother Peyton.

Eli Manning and Brady also headlined the title matchup between the teams after the 2007 season, like this one played in a domed facility at University of Phoenix Stadium in Glendale, Ariz. The Patriots were trying to become the only modern-era NFL team other than the 1972 Miami Dolphins to go undefeated and the first to go 19-0.

Behind a Brady-powered offense that easily led the league with 36.8 points and 411.3 yards per game, New England seemed more than likely to make history and claim its fourth Super Bowl title. New York, though, had other ideas.

The Giants hammered Brady with their powerful defensive line, racking up five sacks and hitting him nine times, and Manning orchestrated a winning fourth-quarter drive thats remembered for David Tyrees miraculous helmet-pinning catch and Plaxico Burress 13-yard touchdown reception, which gave New York a 17-14 victory.

“Hopefully, we will have the same result,” said defensive end Osi Umenyiora, one of the Giants who harassed Brady four years ago. “We still have one more game to go, but this is truly unbelievable.”

While that run to the Giants third Lombardi Trophy was largely unexpected, this one may have been even more so. New Yorks up-and-down season hit a low point Dec. 18 in a lifeless 23-10 home loss to Washington, which left the club at 7-7 and needing to win its last two games to make the playoffs.

Helped the following week by the intensity of a rivalry game with the Jets, the Giants (12-7) responded by taking that contest 29-14 and defeating Dallas 31-14 in Week 17 to capture the NFC East.

The victory over the Jets coincided with players such as defensive end Justin Tuck and linebacker Michael Boley getting healthy enough to play up to their usual high standards. Umenyiora returned against the Cowboys following an ankle injury that kept him out four games.

“We came together against the Jets and we started playing very well as a defense,” Umenyiora said, “but definitely health had something to do with that. Obviously, we had a lot of guys who are key components who missed a lot of games. The minute we were able to get everyone together, we all took off.”

As in January 2008, coach Tom Coughlins team has powered through the playoffs behind a ferocious defense, beating Atlanta in the first round before knocking off top-seeded and defending champion Green Bay 37-20 the next week, then No. 2 seed San Francisco 20-17 in overtime in the NFC title game.

The Giants have allowed 39 points in the postseason, and theyve given up 67 while producing 20 sacks during their five-game winning streak, with no opponent throwing for more than 251 yards in that span.

“They have great quickness (on the defensive line) as well as power,” New England coach Bill Belichick said. “Those inside guys can really knock the line of scrimmage back.”

While the defense has played a major role in the Giants surge, the constant this season has been Manning. The QB took a leap into the ranks of the NFLs elite in his eighth year, passing for a career-best 4,933 yards – fourth in the league – with 29 touchdowns and 16 interceptions.

Despite being the MVP of Super Bowl XLII, Manning has spent part of this week answering questions about his superstar brother. Peyton Manning didnt play this season following neck surgery that has put his future in doubt, but his presence has loomed large with this game taking place at the Colts stadium.

“Oh you meant Eli? I got it now,” Patriots linebacker Gary Guyton said when asked about coming to Indianapolis with Manning in the headlines.

Peyton cheered on Eli from their familys luxury suite during Super Bowl XLII, and he seems likely to be on hand to do so again. Peyton Manning led Indianapolis past the Patriots in the AFC title game after the 2006 season en route to his only Super Bowl championship.

Incredibly, the attention on the Mannings and the Giants improbable run has somewhat overshadowed the fact that perhaps the NFLs best quarterback will be playing Sunday after guiding the AFCs top-seeded team on a 10-game winning streak.

As great as Brady was in 2007, when he threw for 50 touchdowns and eight interceptions, the two-time league MVP was nearly as good this season. He posted a career-best 5,235 passing yards – the second-highest total in history – with 39 TDs, 12 INTs and a 105.6 passer rating.

He turned in a stellar performance in New Englands playoff opener Jan. 14, throwing for an NFL postseason record-tying six touchdowns in a 45-10 rout of Denver, but he struggled in a 23-20 victory over Baltimore in the AFC title game.

Brady posted a season-low 57.5 passer rating, threw two interceptions and saw his streak of 35 games with at least one touchdown pass end. He threw for just 239 yards.

It was enough for New England (15-3) to keep its win streak alive – one that began the week after the Patriots and Giants renewed hostilities Nov. 6 in Foxborough in their first meeting that counted since the Super Bowl.

Brady threw for 342 yards and two scores, but New York intercepted him twice and Manning orchestrated a drive that ended with a 1-yard touchdown pass to Jake Ballard with 15 seconds left, giving the Giants a 24-20 victory.

Theres no doubt Brady will be highly motivated to come out on top against the Giants this time.

“All the games you lose, there are plays that you want back,” he said at Tuesdays media day when asked about the teams first Super Bowl meeting. “Certainly, every time you lose, you think there is more that you could have done to help the team win. But when you win, you dont think about any of those things. You think about what you do well.”

Fully aware of how dangerous Brady is, New York seems unlikely to change much about its game plan on defense from Super Bowl XLII. With Umenyiora, Tuck – who recorded two sacks in that Super Bowl – breakout star Jason Pierre-Paul (16 1/2 sacks) and Mathias Kiwanuka, the Giants will try to put heavy pressure on New Englands QB again.

“I think it starts with hitting him, even when you dont actually get sacks, just keeping people around him so he cant step up,” Tuck said. “I think he gets a little frustrated when he has to go to his second or third receivers. You can kind of confuse him sometimes with our coverage. I think there are a lot of things that can get him rattled, but it just seems like not too many people are able to do that.”

Not too many people have been able to slow down New Englands tight ends. Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez have formed a devastating duo and brought a new dimension to the Patriots second-ranked offense, with Gronkowski racking up 1,327 yards receiving with 17 scores – records for his position – and Hernandez totaling 910 yards and seven TDs.

Gronkowskis uncertain health, however, could play a major role in the outcome of this game. Hes suffering from a high left ankle sprain and had a walking boot removed Tuesday.

Gronkowski has given little in the way of definitive information on his status, at one point saying his ankle could be from 100 percent to “2 percent” for the Super Bowl.

“Im improving every day,” he said. “The only reason its getting so blown up is because its the Super Bowl. Its just like any other injury during any other week.”

Even if New York succeeds in limiting the two athletic tight ends, theres the matter of stopping Wes Welker, who topped the NFL with 122 catches and was second with 1,569 yards receiving.

New Englands resurgent defense seems likely to receive a stiff test as well.

The Patriots biggest challenge on that side of the ball figures to be trying to stop the Giants dynamic receivers. Hakeem Nicks, Mario Manningham and Victor Cruz – who came out of nowhere with 1,536 yards – give Manning three big-play threats who have helped carry New York through the playoffs.

Another championship matchup between these teams indoors may only enhance the effectiveness of all the skill players on offense.

“Im excited about it,” said Nicks, who has 335 yards and four TDs this postseason. “It should be pretty fast out there, and I look forward to playing out there and so do our teammates.”

The Patriots allowed 411.1 yards per game in the regular season – 31st in the league – but theyve given up just 325.0 in the postseason.

Theyve been more effective defensively since safety Patrick Chung and linebacker Brandon Spikes returned from lengthy absences, with Spikes snagging a key interception against the Ravens. Stalwart defensive tackle Vince Wilfork was outstanding in that game with three tackles for loss.

“We havent had the same group of guys on the field on the defensive side of the ball for three consecutive weeks all year,” linebacker and defensive captain Jerod Mayo said. “I think this might be the first time, so the communication is picking up. The guys are really coming through.”

While many players on both teams are new, they are coached by the same former Giants assistants who worked together under former coach Bill Parcells. The 65-year-old Coughlin, whose job may have been in jeopardy before the Super Bowl run, and the 59-year-old Belichick will form the oldest head coaching matchup in Super Bowl history – and one between old friends who know each other well.

“Hes an exceptional football coach, and Ive said that before,” Coughlin told his teams official website about Belichick. “The style and the preparation … Bill is going to work very hard, as we are, at showing you something and it really isnt what you think it is.”

TIME: 07:00 P.M. EST
VENUE: Aloha Stadium

Tony Gonzalez, Ray Lewis and Champ Bailey know what to expect. The new faces at the Pro Bowl arent so sure, and are curious how intense they should play in Sundays all-star game.

“Ive never been in a Pro Bowl before, so I dont know what the tempo is going to be like,” San Diego Chargers running back Ryan Mathews said. “So its going to be fun to get out there and see how it goes.”

Six rookies are among the 36 first-timers, including quarterbacks Cam Newton of the Carolina Panthers and Andy Dalton of the Cincinnati Bengals, who are replacing Super Bowl quarterbacks Eli Manning and Tom Brady.

Their selection makes this Pro Bowl the first that will feature two rookie quarterbacks.

“This is like the height of being an NFL player – being an all-star and having the opportunity to wear the red, white and blue – just having that jersey,” said Newton, the No. 1 overall pick in last years draft. “Only a few people can say, `Ive made it to the NFL, but fewer number can say theyre made it here.”

In a game known to highlight offense, the NFC will feature two of the games most prolific quarterbacks.

Green Bay quarterback Aaron Rodgers will start for the NFC and will be backed up by New Orleans quarterback Drew Brees. Rodgers passed for 4,463 yards with 45 touchdowns and just six interceptions. His quarterback rating of 122.5 set an NFL record. Brees, meanwhile, threw for 5,476 yards, breaking Dan Marinos single-season record.

The NFC also features Philadelphia running back LeSean McCoy and receivers Larry Fitzgerald (Arizona), Steve Smith (Carolina) and Greg Jennings (Green Bay).

Houston defensive end Antonio Smith acknowledges the NFC has a lot of great players on offense, but isnt too worried.

“We got so many weapons. We got so many Super Bowls. We got Hall of Fame players on our team. So I think well be all right,” Smith said.

Pittsburgh quarterback Ben Roethlisberger will start for the AFC, with San Diegos Philip Rivers and Dalton backing him up.

“I think any quarterback will tell you that we wish we were getting ready to play in a game a week from now, but its always an honor to come,” said Rivers, who this season joined Brees and Peyton Manning as the only quarterbacks to pass for 4,000 yards in four consecutive seasons.

The players wrapped up a week of “workouts” on Saturday.

“The practices have been great,” Cardinals rookie cornerback Patrick Peterson said. “Its definitely the most laid-back practices Ive ever been involved in.”

The brief practices have been as grueling and intense as a poolside, Hawaiian lomilomi massage. The players, some wearing sunglasses, often sweat more after practice – signing autographs for the fans.

“If you break a sweat during practice in Hawaii, theres a rule youve got to be sent home by the NFL,” said Packers cornerback Charles Woodson, who is making his eighth Pro Bowl in his 14th season.

After practice, the players usually spend their days golfing, fishing, shopping or lounging on the beach with their families. In a season that began with a bitter labor dispute is ending in paradise for these players.

“Its more than what I thought it would be. Its amazing. Its truly amazing,” said Smith, making his first trip.

The players are hoping this wont be the final game in Hawaii. NFL and state officials are negotiating a deal to keep the game in the islands. Many said they wouldnt play if it were elsewhere.

Bengals rookie receiver A.J. Green said he spent time learning from the players he grew up admiring. He doesnt know what to expect Sunday.

“A lot of guys arent trying to get hurt. I think its going to be up tempo, but not too crazy,” he said.

Packers coach Mike McCarthy, who is leading the NFC, said his game plan was simple with such a loaded team. “Our goal is to have 11 on the field,” he said.

McCarthy said the game is all about the players, who earned this trip with their work during the season.

“I dont think anybodys too worried about how many touches they get or where the ball is going to go,” he said.

Maybe with the exception of Jennings, who believes he has the inside track on the throws with his coaches calling plays and Rodgers as the signal caller.

“The other (receivers) already know, when Im in the game, 85 is going to get the ball,” Jennings said.

This years winners will receive a record $50,000 each, up $5,000 from last year, with the losing players earning $25,000.

“When that fourth quarter rolls around and theres a little bit of money on the line, I think youll see the tempo step up. Well all be ready for it,” Packers linebacker Clay Matthews said.

Chargers tight end Antonio Gates said he expects to play hard.

“I only know one way to prepare for a game. I dont know how to go half-speed,” he said. “This is still a game. Guys still got on pads and coming out to compete.”

Besides the money, conference bragging rights are on the line.

“Its still a pride thing – AFC vs. NFC,” Gates said. “We feel like we are the tougher division and they feel the same.”

Rivers said the money is important, but isnt the main motivator for these competitors.

“Even if we were playing for nothing, when it comes down to it, theyre still keeping score,” he said.

—

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TIME: 03:00 P.M. EST
VENUE: Gillette Stadium

After cruising to a lopsided victory behind another extraordinary Tom Brady-led offensive display last weekend, the New England Patriots find themselves on the verge of their fifth Super Bowl appearance in 11 seasons.

While the Baltimore Ravens path to the AFC championship game proved to be a bit more rocky, they continue to persevere thanks to one of the stingiest defenses in the league.

The Ravens look to slow down Brady and the prolific Patriots offense Sunday when these teams meet in Foxborough with a trip to Super Bowl XLVI on the line.

Coming into last weekend with three consecutive postseason defeats – the first of those a loss to the New York Giants in Super Bowl XLII – New England (14-3) snapped that skid in emphatic fashion in the divisional round Saturday. The Patriots jumped out to a 14-0 lead and rolled to a 45-10 blowout of Denver, as Brady threw for 363 yards and matched an NFL postseason record with six touchdown passes.

“You lose a few playoff games and its a very bitter way to end the season and it sits on your mind for quite a long time,” Brady said. “For us to come out and play the way we did, have a very solid performance in the most important game of the year, is very gratifying.

“From this point on, everyone will be focused on what we need to do to be better next week and, hopefully, come out and play for another championship.”

While Brady was able to pick apart the Broncos defense, a repeat performance against the Ravens (13-4) may be harder to come by. Baltimore ranks third in the NFL with 16.6 points and 288.9 yards allowed per game, and it led the conference with 48 sacks – 14 by Terrell Suggs.

The challenge for New Englands passing attack, second in the league with 317.8 yards a game, is solving a Ravens pass defense that gave up 196.3 yards per contest during the regular season – fourth in the NFL.

The Ravens “are the best team weve faced all year,” Brady said. “Theres no one thats going to overlook a team like that. It would be impossible to do. They present a ton of challenges in all three phases of the game … theyre physical, theyre tough, they can cover.

“Theyve got some of the best players in the history of the NFL at their position, in Suggs and Ray Lewis and Ed Reed and Haloti Ngata.”

Brady is all too familiar with Baltimores ability on defense. Those four players were part of a unit that helped spark the Ravens to a 33-14 wild-card victory over New England in the teams only playoff meeting Jan. 10, 2010. Brady threw three interceptions, was sacked three times and threw for just 154 yards as the Patriots lost after falling behind 24-0 in the first quarter.

“We really havent given it much thought because it is a different season and a different team,” special teams captain Matthew Slater said of that defeat. “We do remember the sting of getting embarrassed at home. … Those guys beat us from the opening snap all the way through. We have to try to avoid that.”

New England will be facing a Ravens team that seems unlikely to be intimidated by the Gillette Stadium surroundings as it seeks its first Super Bowl appearance since winning the championship in 2000.

“Weve gone (to Foxborough) and played before,” said Baltimores Joe Flacco, who threw for just 34 yards and had an interception in that playoff game as Baltimore ran for 234 yards – 159 from Ray Rice.

“We have won in New England. They are one of the teams, like us, thats tough to beat at home. We know how tough it is to go into a place like that, a place like here, and win a football game. So were going to have to make sure we prepare well all week and bring our A-game up there.”

At least one of Flaccos teammates, however, could be worried about whether the quarterback will do that. Baltimore survived against Houston in the divisional round, winning 20-13 after forcing four turnovers – including Reeds late interception to help seal the win.

In a radio interview this week, Reed expressed some concern about the teams ability to move the ball after the Ravens gained only 227 yards against the Texans.

“I think a couple of times he needed to get rid of the ball. It just didnt look like he had a hold on the offense,” Reed said.

“I think Flacco can have a breakout game, especially after last week. … I know he is definitely coming back to show himself off.”

Flacco shrugged off the comments, saying he had resolved things with Reed.

“It was a little funny to me, I was a little caught off guard,” he told the teams official website. “It is what it is, we talked about it. Its not really that big of a deal.”

Flacco, the only quarterback in NFL history to win a playoff game in each of his first four seasons in the league, threw for 176 yards and two touchdowns versus the Texans but was sacked five times and missed several easy throws.

That could be a problem if Baltimore cant get its 10th-ranked rushing game going for a second straight week. Rice, second in the league with 1,364 yards on the ground, managed 60 on 21 carries as the Ravens rushed for 87 yards – well below their 124.8 average.

New England allowed 117.1 yards rushing per contest this season and gave up 144 last week.

“I would anticipate, against the team were about to play, you have to do a better job offensively in terms of stats and points,” said coach John Harbaugh, whose team managed one field goal over the final 46 minutes versus Houston.

While New England could struggle to slow down Baltimores ground game, the Ravens are sure to have their hands full with the Patriots tight end duo of Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez.

Gronkowski, who broke NFL single-season records for his position with 1,327 yards and 17 TDs, caught 10 passes for 145 yards and matched a postseason record with three more scores versus Denver. Hernandez hauled in four passes for 55 yards and a TD to go along with a team-high 61 rushing yards before leaving with a head injury in the fourth quarter.

“Everybody makes big plays on this team,” said Hernandez, who is expected to be available Sunday. “Thats why our offense is real dangerous. Weve got so many weapons they dont know who to cover.”

The Patriots averaged 428.0 yards, second in the league, and their 32.1 points a contest were third. Bradys 5,235 passing yards were second most in NFL history, trailing Drew Brees 5,476, a mark he established this year.

New England has dominated Baltimore in the regular season, winning all six meetings, while Brady has gone 4-1 against the Ravens including the playoff game. However, his 71.4 quarterback rating in those contests is his lowest against any team.

TIME: 06:30 P.M. EST
VENUE: Candlestick Park

The expected aerial show for the NFC championship has given way to what shapes up as a hard-hitting affair between franchises that were rivals from the past.

The San Francisco 49ers and New York Giants have met seven times in the postseason, and the winner of the latest edition of this classic rivalry Sunday at Candlestick Park will advance to the Super Bowl.

San Francisco and New York sent the high-powered offenses of New Orleans and Green Bay home for the offseason after divisional-round wins last weekend. The 49ers won 36-32 at home over the Saints and the Giants stunned the top-seeded Packers 37-20.

“I think it probably surprised a lot of people that the Giants and the 49ers are in the NFC championship game,” 49ers first-year coach Jim Harbaugh said.

Surprising is the correct word to describe both teams surges.

Harbaugh inherited a 6-10 team and guided it to 13 wins and the franchises first playoff berth in nine seasons before last Saturdays dramatic victory on Alex Smiths 14-yard touchdown pass to Vernon Davis with nine seconds left.

“I think it was a physical, emotional expenditure by everybody that was in that game,” Harbaugh said. “The thing that youre so proud of is the character of the football team.”

The Giants looked like anything but a contender in splitting their first 14 games before clinching the NFC East by closing the regular season with double-digit wins over the Jets and Cowboys. New York has become the first team to begin the postseason in the wild-card round and win its first two games by at least 17 points.

Ten of the 12 previous teams to win their first two playoff contests by such a margin went on to win the Super Bowl. The Giants are 4-0 all-time in NFC championships.

“We are not going to be denied,” safety Antrel Rolle said. “We are not going to be denied at this point. We understand what we have as a team. Its not all talent, its about chemistry and we are jelling at this point. Coaches and players being on the same page at the same time. We have one mind, to win a championship.”

The Giants pass rush has come alive during this four-game win streak with 17 sacks, including four of Aaron Rodgers last Sunday. The emergence of second-year Pro Bowler Jason Pierre-Paul, return of Osi Umenyiora for the Dallas game and the improved health of Justin Tuck have boosted one of the leagues most fearsome units.

The 49ers, meanwhile, had the leagues top rushing defense in allowing 77.3 yards per game as well as a pass rush led by rookie Aldon Smiths 14.0 sacks. San Francisco earned a reputation for delivering bone-crushing hits while tying for the league lead in creating 38 takeaways.

“Were not really trying to hurt people,” safety Donte Whitner said. “But when we play physical, people get hurt.”

Trying to attack those defenses will be quarterbacks who have enjoyed vastly different careers since being top overall draft picks one year apart.

The Giants Eli Manning, taken first overall in 2004, fell 67 yards shy of 5,000 this year. His play this postseason (607 passing yards, six TDs, one interception) has brought back memories of New Yorks 2007 playoff run in which he excelled en route to earning Super Bowl MVP honors.

San Francisco took Alex Smith with the top pick in the 2005 draft, but he never found his footing until playing for his third coach in Harbaugh. Smith guided an offense that had the fewest turnovers in the NFL with 10, and he proved his mettle by leading the Niners to two touchdown drives in the final 2:11 last weekend.

“He has great mental toughness,” Harbaugh said. “He has a way to be focused and loose in the most pressure situations. Hes got that makeup about him that allows him to play and execute.”

Davis finished with seven catches for 180 yards in his postseason debut. He was ecstatic that the Giants upset allowed the 49ers to host this contest rather than have to travel to Green Bay.

“We dont have to go nowhere. We can just go out back, go out back and throw the football around,” Davis said. “The opponents, they come to us. And thats always good, having home-field advantage, and having the team come to you.”

San Francisco is 4-3 in the postseason against New York, which won the lone championship meeting in 1990 at Candlestick to end the 49ers chances of a third straight Super Bowl title.

More recently, San Francisco won 27-20 at home Nov. 13 in a game in which Tuck, Umenyiora and running back Ahmad Bradshaw all missed due to injury for New York. The Niners top receiver in that game, tight end Delanie Walker, has a broken jaw and his status for Sunday is uncertain.

Manning threw for two touchdowns and 311 yards as well as two interceptions to Pro Bowl cornerback Carlos Rogers. His bid to lead a game-tying TD drive ended in the final minute when Justin Smith batted down a fourth-down pass.

“We know what to expect with them,” said Manning, who missed part of Wednesdays workout with a stomach bug. “Theyre a very sound team. Theyre very good. They have good players. They play with great energy.”

The Giants held a hampered Frank Gore to no yards on six carries in that contest, and none of his five 100-yard efforts have come since. Smith completed 19 of 30 passes for 242 yards, one score and one interception.

Hakeem Nicks last touchdown reception on the road came in that game before he scored twice last week. Nicks has 280 yards receiving and four TDs in the postseason as part of a dangerous group of receivers that includes Victor Cruz, third in the league with 1,536 yards.

“That is a worthy opponent,” Harbaugh said. “That is a scary opponent. We will have to come with every ounce of our A game as well.”

CBSSports.com wire reports
Jan. 15, 2012

GREEN BAY, Wis. — With their own star quarterback and a dominating defense, the New York Giants exposed the Green Bay Packers for what they now are — former Super Bowl champions.

The Packers dropped passes, fumbled the ball and simply couldnt stop Eli Manning and his receivers in the Giants shocking 37-20 divisional playoff victory Sunday. To the Giants delight, a Green Bay team that had a real shot at an undefeated season less than a month ago is heading home.

And that the win came at Lambeau Field, well, that was just as sweet. The site has become a familiar launching pad for the New Yorkers. After beating the Packers (15-2) at home for the second time in four years, they only hope this trip ends the same way — in the NFL title game.

The Giants will play the 49ers in San Francisco for the NFC championship next Sunday.

“I think were a dangerous team,” Giants coach Tom Coughlin said. “I like where we are and how were playing.”

The Giants (11-7) have been on a roll ever since beating the rival Jets on Dec. 24, beating the Dallas Cowboys to get in the playoffs and then blowing out Atlanta in the wild-card round last week.

They took down the Packers on Sunday, as Manning threw for 330 yards and three touchdowns.

The Giants are 3-4 against the 49ers in the playoffs, including their memorable collapse in a wild-card game at San Francisco on Jan. 5, 2003. New York led 38-14 in the third quarter but fell apart and lost 39-38.

That probably wont be much of a worry for this years Giants, who were oozing confidence even before they beat the Packers.

“This team knows how to win on the road,” defensive end Justin Tuck said. “It seems like right now its our time.”

The Giants stunned the Packers with a touchdown off a long heave from Manning to Hakeem Nicks just before halftime, then knocked them out with a late touchdown off a turnover.

Lambeau Field fell silent as the Giants swarmed the field in celebration, with a handful of New York fans chanting, “Lets go, Giants!”

“I knew we were going to beat them on Wednesday, to be honest with you,” running back Brandon Jacobs said.

The win came four years after the Giants beat a Brett Favre-led Packers team in the NFC title game. It wasnt nearly as frigid this time around, and the Packers vulnerable defense seemed to be waiting to get sliced up.

Manning found six different receivers against a porous Packers defense. But Manning did the most damage with his throws to Nicks, who caught seven passes for 165 yards and two touchdowns.

Nicks biggest play was a 66-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter. His score at the end of the half came on a 37-yard pass into the end zone with defenders all around.

“It was a big momentum play for them, but we were not deflated as a football team,” Packers coach Mike McCarthy said.

The Giants defense also was able to defuse the big-play abilities of Aaron Rodgers and the Packers offense.

Rodgers was 26 of 46 for 264 yards, with two touchdowns and an interception. He also was the Packers leading rusher with 66 yards on seven carries.

The Packers fully expected to go back to the Super Bowl, but the reality hit Rodgers quickly.

“Oh, its real,” Rodgers said. “We got beat by a team that played better tonight.

“We play to win championships. You win a championship and youre kind of at the top of the mountain, and you forget kind of how bad this feeling is. We had a championship-caliber regular season and didnt play well today.”

The Packers past problems with dropped balls by their talented group of wide receivers returned at the worst time imaginable.

And while the Packers defense has been vulnerable all season, giving up far too many yards and big plays, theyve typically made up for it by forcing turnovers.

This time, the Packers were the ones giving the ball away.

Green Bay lost three fumbles, including one on a rare giveaway by Rodgers. The Giants also sacked Rodgers four times.

With the Packers trailing 20-10 at halftime but finally beginning to look like themselves on offense to start the second half, Osi Umenyiora swatted the ball away from Rodgers, and Deon Grant recovered the fumble.

“With a 10-point lead, were going to get after you,” Umenyiora said. “And thats what we did.”

But the mistake didnt cost the Packers points, and Green Bay cut the lead to seven points on a 35-yard field goal by Mason Crosby late in the third quarter.

The Packers put together another drive early in the fourth quarter, but Michael Boley and Umenyiora combined to sack Rodgers on fourth-down play in Giants territory.

After carving up the Packers in the first half, the Giants offense hit a lull in the second half. But they broke out of it to drive for a 35-yard field goal by Lawrence Tynes to take a 23-13 lead with 7:48 left to play.

Packers running back Ryan Grant then fumbled after catching a pass and the Giants recovered, taking the ball back deep into Green Bay territory.

Manning then threw a 4-yard touchdown pass to Mario Manningham and the Giants took a 30-13 lead. Rodgers rallied the Packers for a 16-yard touchdown pass to Donald Driver, cutting the lead to 30-20 with 4:46 left.

The Packers then tried on onside kick, but the Giants Victor Cruz recovered.

Jacobs scored on a 14-yard run with 2:36 left to put the game away.

It was an emotional day for the Packers, who welcomed offensive coordinator Joe Philbin two days after the funeral service for his 21-year-old son, Michael.

Philbin had been away from the team all week after Michael Philbins body was recovered from an icy river in Oshkosh, Wis. on Monday. A preliminary autopsy showed that he drowned.

“I think deep down, a lot of us wanted to kind of get this one for him,” Rodgers said.

Notes

Giants safety Deon Grant left the game with a head injury. Packers running back John Kuhn left the game with a knee injury, and wide receiver Greg Jennings sustained a rib injury. Driver caught three passes, giving him a franchise-record 49 postseason receptions in his career. Packers LB Brad Jones blocked a 40-yard field goal attempt by Tynes in the second quarter.

CBSSports.com wire reports
Jan. 15, 2012

GREEN BAY, Wis. — With their own star quarterback and a dominating defense, the New York Giants exposed the Green Bay Packers for what they now are — former Super Bowl champions.

The Packers dropped passes, fumbled the ball and simply couldnt stop Eli Manning and his receivers in the Giants shocking 37-20 divisional playoff victory Sunday. To the Giants delight, a Green Bay team that had a real shot at an undefeated season less than a month ago is heading home.

And that the win came at Lambeau Field, well, that was just as sweet. The site has become a familiar launching pad for the New Yorkers. After beating the Packers (15-2) at home for the second time in four years, they only hope this trip ends the same way — in the NFL title game.

The Giants will play the 49ers in San Francisco for the NFC championship next Sunday.

“I think were a dangerous team,” Giants coach Tom Coughlin said. “I like where we are and how were playing.”

The Giants (11-7) have been on a roll ever since beating the rival Jets on Dec. 24, beating the Dallas Cowboys to get in the playoffs and then blowing out Atlanta in the wild-card round last week.

They took down the Packers on Sunday, as Manning threw for 330 yards and three touchdowns.

The Giants are 3-4 against the 49ers in the playoffs, including their memorable collapse in a wild-card game at San Francisco on Jan. 5, 2003. New York led 38-14 in the third quarter but fell apart and lost 39-38.

That probably wont be much of a worry for this years Giants, who were oozing confidence even before they beat the Packers.

“This team knows how to win on the road,” defensive end Justin Tuck said. “It seems like right now its our time.”

The Giants stunned the Packers with a touchdown off a long heave from Manning to Hakeem Nicks just before halftime, then knocked them out with a late touchdown off a turnover.

Lambeau Field fell silent as the Giants swarmed the field in celebration, with a handful of New York fans chanting, “Lets go, Giants!”

“I knew we were going to beat them on Wednesday, to be honest with you,” running back Brandon Jacobs said.

The win came four years after the Giants beat a Brett Favre-led Packers team in the NFC title game. It wasnt nearly as frigid this time around, and the Packers vulnerable defense seemed to be waiting to get sliced up.

Manning found six different receivers against a porous Packers defense. But Manning did the most damage with his throws to Nicks, who caught seven passes for 165 yards and two touchdowns.

Nicks biggest play was a 66-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter. His score at the end of the half came on a 37-yard pass into the end zone with defenders all around.

“It was a big momentum play for them, but we were not deflated as a football team,” Packers coach Mike McCarthy said.

The Giants defense also was able to defuse the big-play abilities of Aaron Rodgers and the Packers offense.

Rodgers was 26 of 46 for 264 yards, with two touchdowns and an interception. He also was the Packers leading rusher with 66 yards on seven carries.

The Packers fully expected to go back to the Super Bowl, but the reality hit Rodgers quickly.

“Oh, its real,” Rodgers said. “We got beat by a team that played better tonight.

“We play to win championships. You win a championship and youre kind of at the top of the mountain, and you forget kind of how bad this feeling is. We had a championship-caliber regular season and didnt play well today.”

The Packers past problems with dropped balls by their talented group of wide receivers returned at the worst time imaginable.

And while the Packers defense has been vulnerable all season, giving up far too many yards and big plays, theyve typically made up for it by forcing turnovers.

This time, the Packers were the ones giving the ball away.

Green Bay lost three fumbles, including one on a rare giveaway by Rodgers. The Giants also sacked Rodgers four times.

With the Packers trailing 20-10 at halftime but finally beginning to look like themselves on offense to start the second half, Osi Umenyiora swatted the ball away from Rodgers, and Deon Grant recovered the fumble.

“With a 10-point lead, were going to get after you,” Umenyiora said. “And thats what we did.”

But the mistake didnt cost the Packers points, and Green Bay cut the lead to seven points on a 35-yard field goal by Mason Crosby late in the third quarter.

The Packers put together another drive early in the fourth quarter, but Michael Boley and Umenyiora combined to sack Rodgers on fourth-down play in Giants territory.

After carving up the Packers in the first half, the Giants offense hit a lull in the second half. But they broke out of it to drive for a 35-yard field goal by Lawrence Tynes to take a 23-13 lead with 7:48 left to play.

Packers running back Ryan Grant then fumbled after catching a pass and the Giants recovered, taking the ball back deep into Green Bay territory.

Manning then threw a 4-yard touchdown pass to Mario Manningham and the Giants took a 30-13 lead. Rodgers rallied the Packers for a 16-yard touchdown pass to Donald Driver, cutting the lead to 30-20 with 4:46 left.

The Packers then tried on onside kick, but the Giants Victor Cruz recovered.

Jacobs scored on a 14-yard run with 2:36 left to put the game away.

It was an emotional day for the Packers, who welcomed offensive coordinator Joe Philbin two days after the funeral service for his 21-year-old son, Michael.

Philbin had been away from the team all week after Michael Philbins body was recovered from an icy river in Oshkosh, Wis. on Monday. A preliminary autopsy showed that he drowned.

“I think deep down, a lot of us wanted to kind of get this one for him,” Rodgers said.

Notes

Giants safety Deon Grant left the game with a head injury. Packers running back John Kuhn left the game with a knee injury, and wide receiver Greg Jennings sustained a rib injury. Driver caught three passes, giving him a franchise-record 49 postseason receptions in his career. Packers LB Brad Jones blocked a 40-yard field goal attempt by Tynes in the second quarter.

CBSSports.com wire reports
Jan. 14, 2012

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Tebowmania had no chance against Tom Bradysplayoff pedigree.

All the heroics, all the big plays and quite a few records belonged to Brady and the New England Patriots on Saturday night in a 45-10 rout of overmatched Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos. Brady threw six touchdown passes, five in the first half, putting the Patriots into the AFC Championship Game and silencing the nationwide frenzy surrounding Tebow.

The Patriots (14-3), winners of nine straight games, will host either Baltimore or Houston next Sunday for a spot in the Super Bowl. Saturday nights romp snapped a three-game postseason losing streak, two of those at Gillette Stadium, and lifted the Patriots to the verge of their fifth Super Bowl appearance in 11 seasons. Theyve won three of those, two with Brady as the games MVP.

“We came in and started fast and it was a big win for us,” said Brady, who even got off a 48-yard punt on third down.

“I have no idea about records and stuff like that. Anytime you score 45, obviously with the help of our defense, and special teams played great — hopefully we can go out next week and play even better.”

From the first snap, this was a mismatch. The Patriots were not going to make the same mistakes the Steelers made against this team.

“Hes been around the block a few times,” cornerback Champ Bailey said of Brady. “He knows how to win games. If youre not ready to punch him in the mouth hes going to eat you up all night.”

A nation transfixed by Tebows play, if not his religious beliefs, tuned in Saturday to see if he had any more magic in store for Brady and company. He had nothing left as the Patriots made this must-see TV only for those who live in New England.

“Any time youre getting beat like that, it doesnt change how you fight,” Tebow said. “It didnt matter whether it was the first play or the last play or whether were down by 42. …. I wanted to be the same player.”

With New England up 42-7, the fans began their derisive Teeee-bow chants. On the next play, the Broncos quarterback was sacked for an 11-yard loss — one of five sacks for New Englands 31st-ranked defense.

“We went out and played very hard and good things happened,” defensive tackle Vince Wilfork said. “A great team win.”

And so ended one of the seasons most exciting story lines — one that began when Denver was 1-4 and made Tebow a starter. The one-time third-stringer promptly won six in a row and seven of eight, with a string of stunning comebacks.

“A lot of ups and downs,” Tebow said of his second NFL season. “Overall, its been a very special opportunity for me, something Im really thankful for. Theres a lot of things were proud of. Obviously, its hard to see them all right now.”

That winning surge ended with a 41-23 home loss to New England, and the Broncos dropped their next two, backing into the AFC West title.

But they rebounded nicely in their first playoff game since the 2005 season with the longest overtime touchdown in playoff history, an 80-yard catch and run by Demaryius Thomas against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Like everyone else on the Broncos offense, Thomas was invisible against the Patriots.

Denver couldnt cover or tackle All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski, who tied a postseason mark with three touchdown catches, all in the opening half. Brady toyed with the Broncos (9-9), throwing more TD passes than Tebow had completions (three) in the first 30 minutes.

“We were playing complementary football, and it was awesome,” Gronkowski said. “Obviously, you cant start off the game any better than that.”

Bradys sixth TD was to his other tight end, Aaron Hernandez, as the quarterback tied Steve Young and Daryle Lamonica for the most in a postseason game.

The two-time league MVP threw for 5,235 yards during the season, second in NFL history to Drew Brees 5,476 in 2011. He looked ready to get that much against the Broncos as he moved to third place in career touchdown passes in the playoffs with 36, trailing Joe Montana (45) and Brett Favre (44).

Brady was 26 for 34 for 363 yards and Gronkowski made 10 catches for 145 yards as the Patriots gained 509 yards in all. In stark contrast, Tebow was 9 for 26 for 136 yards.

The Broncos won the coin toss and elected to defer. Bad idea: They never were in the game after that.

Brady hit his first eight passes for 79 yards and two touchdowns. Offensive coordinator Bill OBrien, whos leaving to become Penn States coach once the Patriots are done, threw in a wrinkle by using Hernandez as a running back. On one of those plays, Hernandez broke free down the left sideline for a 43-yard gain, the teams longest run this season.

But with the ball in his hands and a 14-0 lead, Brady momentarily stumbled. His throw over the middle for Julian Edelman sailed directly to safety Quinton Carter, whose weaving return set up Denver at the New England 24.

Willis McGahee scored on a 5-yard run.

Carter left the game moments later with a neck injury; Denver was already without strong safety Brian Dawkins with a neck problem. And its secondary had no chance without them.

Yes, Brady had cooled off in the 24-degree temperature (wind chill of 12), but only for a while.

Using the no-huddle, and aided by an effective running game, Brady hit three passes for 31 yards, with Gronkowski getting free over the middle this time for the 12-yard score. Several times, and not just on his romps into the end zone, Gronkowski simply shoved aside would-be tacklers to tack on yards after catches.

Bradys TDs covered 10, 12 and 19 yards to Gronkowski, 7 to Wes Welker, 61 to Deion Branch and 17 yards to Hernandez early in the third quarter. Coach Bill Belichick wasnt about to back off at that point, but the Patriots stalled inside the Denver 5 early in the four period and Stephen Gostkowski made a 21-yard field goal to conclude New Englands scoring.

Hernandez left in the fourth quarter with a head injury.

“Hes feeling great,” Gronkowski said. “Hernandez is a beast and I love playing with him and everything.”

On Bradys surprise punt, which Belichick said they had worked on for years without using, Broncos rookie linebacker Von Miller slammed into the back of New Englands Dan Connolly, who wasnt looking. Matt Light then shoved Miller, Connolly turned around and got into a pushing match with Miller as several players joined in and shoved each other, spilling onto the Patriots sideline.

Miller drew an unnecessary roughness penalty.

CBSSports.com wire reports
Jan. 14, 2012

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — Tebowmania had no chance against Tom Bradysplayoff pedigree.

All the heroics, all the big plays and quite a few records belonged to Brady and the New England Patriots on Saturday night in a 45-10 rout of overmatched Tim Tebow and the Denver Broncos. Brady threw six touchdown passes, five in the first half, putting the Patriots into the AFC Championship Game and silencing the nationwide frenzy surrounding Tebow.

The Patriots (14-3), winners of nine straight games, will host either Baltimore or Houston next Sunday for a spot in the Super Bowl. Saturday nights romp snapped a three-game postseason losing streak, two of those at Gillette Stadium, and lifted the Patriots to the verge of their fifth Super Bowl appearance in 11 seasons. Theyve won three of those, two with Brady as the games MVP.

“We came in and started fast and it was a big win for us,” said Brady, who even got off a 48-yard punt on third down.

“I have no idea about records and stuff like that. Anytime you score 45, obviously with the help of our defense, and special teams played great — hopefully we can go out next week and play even better.”

From the first snap, this was a mismatch. The Patriots were not going to make the same mistakes the Steelers made against this team.

“Hes been around the block a few times,” cornerback Champ Bailey said of Brady. “He knows how to win games. If youre not ready to punch him in the mouth hes going to eat you up all night.”

A nation transfixed by Tebows play, if not his religious beliefs, tuned in Saturday to see if he had any more magic in store for Brady and company. He had nothing left as the Patriots made this must-see TV only for those who live in New England.

“Any time youre getting beat like that, it doesnt change how you fight,” Tebow said. “It didnt matter whether it was the first play or the last play or whether were down by 42. …. I wanted to be the same player.”

With New England up 42-7, the fans began their derisive Teeee-bow chants. On the next play, the Broncos quarterback was sacked for an 11-yard loss — one of five sacks for New Englands 31st-ranked defense.

“We went out and played very hard and good things happened,” defensive tackle Vince Wilfork said. “A great team win.”

And so ended one of the seasons most exciting story lines — one that began when Denver was 1-4 and made Tebow a starter. The one-time third-stringer promptly won six in a row and seven of eight, with a string of stunning comebacks.

“A lot of ups and downs,” Tebow said of his second NFL season. “Overall, its been a very special opportunity for me, something Im really thankful for. Theres a lot of things were proud of. Obviously, its hard to see them all right now.”

That winning surge ended with a 41-23 home loss to New England, and the Broncos dropped their next two, backing into the AFC West title.

But they rebounded nicely in their first playoff game since the 2005 season with the longest overtime touchdown in playoff history, an 80-yard catch and run by Demaryius Thomas against the Pittsburgh Steelers. Like everyone else on the Broncos offense, Thomas was invisible against the Patriots.

Denver couldnt cover or tackle All-Pro tight end Rob Gronkowski, who tied a postseason mark with three touchdown catches, all in the opening half. Brady toyed with the Broncos (9-9), throwing more TD passes than Tebow had completions (three) in the first 30 minutes.

“We were playing complementary football, and it was awesome,” Gronkowski said. “Obviously, you cant start off the game any better than that.”

Bradys sixth TD was to his other tight end, Aaron Hernandez, as the quarterback tied Steve Young and Daryle Lamonica for the most in a postseason game.

The two-time league MVP threw for 5,235 yards during the season, second in NFL history to Drew Brees 5,476 in 2011. He looked ready to get that much against the Broncos as he moved to third place in career touchdown passes in the playoffs with 36, trailing Joe Montana (45) and Brett Favre (44).

Brady was 26 for 34 for 363 yards and Gronkowski made 10 catches for 145 yards as the Patriots gained 509 yards in all. In stark contrast, Tebow was 9 for 26 for 136 yards.

The Broncos won the coin toss and elected to defer. Bad idea: They never were in the game after that.

Brady hit his first eight passes for 79 yards and two touchdowns. Offensive coordinator Bill OBrien, whos leaving to become Penn States coach once the Patriots are done, threw in a wrinkle by using Hernandez as a running back. On one of those plays, Hernandez broke free down the left sideline for a 43-yard gain, the teams longest run this season.

But with the ball in his hands and a 14-0 lead, Brady momentarily stumbled. His throw over the middle for Julian Edelman sailed directly to safety Quinton Carter, whose weaving return set up Denver at the New England 24.

Willis McGahee scored on a 5-yard run.

Carter left the game moments later with a neck injury; Denver was already without strong safety Brian Dawkins with a neck problem. And its secondary had no chance without them.

Yes, Brady had cooled off in the 24-degree temperature (wind chill of 12), but only for a while.

Using the no-huddle, and aided by an effective running game, Brady hit three passes for 31 yards, with Gronkowski getting free over the middle this time for the 12-yard score. Several times, and not just on his romps into the end zone, Gronkowski simply shoved aside would-be tacklers to tack on yards after catches.

Bradys TDs covered 10, 12 and 19 yards to Gronkowski, 7 to Wes Welker, 61 to Deion Branch and 17 yards to Hernandez early in the third quarter. Coach Bill Belichick wasnt about to back off at that point, but the Patriots stalled inside the Denver 5 early in the four period and Stephen Gostkowski made a 21-yard field goal to conclude New Englands scoring.

Hernandez left in the fourth quarter with a head injury.

“Hes feeling great,” Gronkowski said. “Hernandez is a beast and I love playing with him and everything.”

On Bradys surprise punt, which Belichick said they had worked on for years without using, Broncos rookie linebacker Von Miller slammed into the back of New Englands Dan Connolly, who wasnt looking. Matt Light then shoved Miller, Connolly turned around and got into a pushing match with Miller as several players joined in and shoved each other, spilling onto the Patriots sideline.

Miller drew an unnecessary roughness penalty.

TIME: 04:30 P.M. EST
VENUE: Lambeau Field

The New York Giants wanted a rematch with the Green Bay Packers after losing to them in the regular season.

The defending Super Bowl champion Packers, however, may have their minds elsewhere leading up to this NFC divisional playoff matchup.

Green Bay will have heavy hearts heading into Sundays home meeting with the Giants after the tragic death earlier this week of offensive coordinator Joe Philbins son.

The buildup for a much-anticipated rematch of the Packers 38-35 victory at New York on Dec. 4 has taken a back seat after the loss of 21-year-old Michael T. Philbin, who disappeared early Sunday and was reported missing that night.

His body was recovered from the Fox River by divers on Monday, and preliminary autopsy results showed that the younger Philbin drowned.

“We love Michael so much and will miss him dearly,” Joe Philbin said in a statement released by the team. “He loved his family, friends and life. His memory will live on in the hearts and minds of all who knew him. We are appreciative of the prayers and the support of our family, friends and the Packers family.”

The funeral is set for Friday, and Joe Philbin was not with the Packers for Wednesdays practice.

“Joe Philbin is where hes supposed to be,” coach Mike McCarthy said. “Hes with his family and hell return when hes ready to return.”

The Giants expressed their best wishes to Philbin and the Packers.

“When we first heard this the other night, the whole coaching staff, the room went absolutely silent,” coach Tom Coughlin said. “Many guys know Joe Philbin. You have tremendous empathy, but you cant (have) anywhere near the feeling that his familys going through. Just tragic.”

On the field, league MVP favorite Aaron Rodgers and fellow Pro Bowl selection Eli Manning will meet in the playoffs for the first time. Rodgers threw for 369 yards and four touchdowns and Manning had 347 and three scores in last months meeting between Super Bowl MVPs.

The Packers improved to 12-0 with that victory before suffering their only loss two weeks later in Kansas City.

Rodgers, 2-0 against the Giants, threw for 45 TDs and 4,643 yards with six interceptions and an NFL-record 122.5 passer rating this season. Manning fell 67 yards shy of 5,000 before completing 23 of 32 passes for 277 yards with three touchdowns in last Sundays 24-2 win over Atlanta in a wild-card game.

The Packers have won 13 straight at home. This is the first postseason game at Lambeau Field since the Giants 23-20 overtime win in the NFC title game four seasons ago, when Manning outplayed Brett Favre in his last game with Green Bay.

“I think anytime youre in the playoffs, youre playing a team whos had a great season and playing in Lambeau Field – its going to be cold, its going to be conditions – it should be a great environment,” Manning said.

New York is starting to resemble that 2007 team, which knocked off previously undefeated New England in the Super Bowl. The Giants pass rush has been led by the emergence of Pro Bowler Jason Pierre-Paul and bolstered by the return of fellow defensive end Osi Umenyiora two weeks ago.

After a solid effort against Dallas in a 31-14 NFC East clincher in Week 17, the Giants defense held the Falcons offense scoreless last week.

A New York defense that ranked 28th in the regular season has gained confidence since being shredded by Rodgers.

“We wanted to see them again, but we realized in seeing them again it would be in a playoff game like this, so obviously we wanted to see them again,” defensive end Justin Tuck said. “But yeah, we felt like we let one slip through our hands.

“I am sure Green Bay is saying to themselves, We didnt play our best game. All of that is in the past. Well get our opportunity to settle all those question marks on Sunday.”

The Packers have noticed the Giants improvement.

“I thought the Giants really had a decisive victory over the Falcons,” McCarthy said. “I think it really started up front, on both sides of the ball. I thought they controlled the line of scrimmage offensively with their run game and really gave their quarterback and their passing game the chance to play downhill.”

Green Bay will use a different offensive line than the group that limited New York to two sacks in the last matchup, with left tackle Chad Clifton expected to start. Clifton practiced Wednesday along with right tackle Bryan Bulaga, who is nursing an ankle injury.

New York got good news when cornerback Aaron Ross practiced Wednesday after leaving Sundays game with a concussion. Ross will be needed to help slow down a Packers receiving corps led by Pro Bowler Jordy Nelson (1,263 yards) and Greg Jennings (949), who is set to return after missing three games with a sprained left knee.

The Giants (10-7) will be trying to exploit a Green Bay defense that ranked last in the NFL in the regular season, although the unit produced a league-high 31 interceptions.

Green Bay (15-1) figures to be tested by a Giants passing attack that has seen Manning hook up frequently with Victor Cruz (1,536 yards) and Hakeem Nicks (1,192). New York had the leagues least productive running game in the regular season before gaining a season-high 172 yards on the ground last week.

The Giants are visiting Lambeau for the first time since last seasons 45-17 loss, in which Rodgers threw for 404 yards and four TDs. New York could have clinched a playoff spot, but was eliminated the next week while the victory started Green Bays 19-game win streak.

TIME: 04:30 P.M. EST
VENUE: Candlestick Park

History, not the resurgent San Francisco 49ers, might be the biggest obstacle facing the surging New Orleans Saints in their NFC divisional playoff game this weekend.

In order to move closer to their second Super Bowl appearance in three seasons, the Saints must win their first-ever playoff road game Saturday against the 49ers, who return to the postseason for the first time in nine years.

After winning its final eight regular-season games then overcoming a four-point halftime deficit to beat Detroit 45-28 in last weekends wild-card round, New Orleans (14-3) looks very much like a Super Bowl contender as the NFCs No. 3 seed.

“We just focus on winning,” coach Sean Payton said.

The Saints have averaged 37.6 points while winning four of their last five postseason games, including the 31-17 victory over Indianapolis in Super Bowl XLIV. However, New Orleans lone defeat during that span came when they were upset 41-36 at Seattle last season.

New Orleans is 0-4 in playoff road games, joining Cincinnati (0-5) as the only teams to lose all of their postseason contests away from home.

Whether or not New Orleans dubious playoff road history will linger Saturday remains to be seen, but Payton does not believe it makes a difference.

“You win 13, 14 games now, and youre trying to find something,” he said. “When you start playing well on the road and home, youre probably a better team and weve been able to do that.”

New Orleans was 5-3 away from the Superdome in 2011, but nothing seemed to come easy.

The Saints rallied to beat Carolina 30-27 on Oct. 9, then lost 26-20 at Tampa Bay a week later. They also lost 31-21 to the then-winless Rams in St. Louis.

New Orleans needed overtime to win 26-23 at Atlanta and 22-17 at Tennessee on a red-zone stand that ended with a sack. The Saints five lowest-scoring games came away from home.

Now, they must face a San Francisco team that gave up 10.9 points per game while going 7-1 at home in 2011.

“This will be a good challenge for us,” Payton said. “Not just playing on the road, but traveling west.”

The 49ers (13-3), who won the NFC West and earned the NFCs No. 2 seed under first-year coach Jim Harbaugh, are back in the playoffs for the first time since losing 31-6 at Tampa Bay in 2002.

“You tend to be a little jealous of the guys that are playing in the playoffs,” 49ers safety Donte Whitner said. “Well be one of eight teams, and hopefully after well be one of four. Were going to enjoy this.”

Though this is the first playoff meeting between the teams, New Orleans has averaged 31.0 points during a six-game winning streak over San Francisco that dates to a 38-0 home loss Jan. 6, 2002. Two of those victories came at Candlestick Park, including 25-22 on Sept. 20, 2010, in the most recent matchup.

Drew Brees has completed 67.4 percent of his passes for 1,475 yards with 12 touchdowns and two interceptions while going 5-0 against the 49ers.

Brees, who needs one TD pass to match Johnny Unitas record of at least one in 49 straight games, was 33 of 43 for 466 yards and three touchdowns as New Orleans set a playoff record with 466 total yards against the Lions.

Darren Sproles rushed for 51 yards and two TDs while Marques Colston caught seven passes for 120.

“We were pulling out all the stops,” Brees said. “We play aggressive. Were not going to apologize for that. Were not going to pull the reins back. Its pedal to the metal.”

Brees will certainly take that approach on the road where hes completed 60.6 percent of his passes for 758 yards with four TDs and one interception in playoff losses at Chicago and Seattle.

While the Saints high-powered offense is likely to provide the stiffest test of the season for San Franciscos daunting defense that ranked fourth in the NFL allowing 308.2 total yards, their own defensive performance could be the difference this weekend.

The Saints have allowed at least 34 points in each of their last three road playoff games and yielded an average of 165.5 yards on the ground all-time away from home in the postseason.

Behind Frank Gore, San Francisco ranked eighth in league averaging 127.8 rushing yards. With 7,625 career yards, Gore is the NFLs all-time leading rusher without a postseason appearance.

“There are a number of things that (the 49ers) do offensively, but theyve been very consistent at being physical up front and blocking with power and finding ways to create big plays in the running game,” said Payton, whose team ranked 12th giving up 108.6 yards per game on the ground.

Though Gore ran for 1,211 yards and eight touchdowns this season, he averaged 53.6 and scored three times in his final eight games. Hes averaged 68.8 yards and scored once in four games versus New Orleans.

San Francisco quarterback Alex Smith set career highs in completion percentage (61.4), passing yards (3,144) and passer rating (90.7), but faces a Saints defense that had the second-most blitzes in the league with 365.

“I had a great season up to this point, but (that) just got us a ticket to the dance like everybody else,” Smith said.

Hes posted a 65.0 passer rating while throwing three touchdowns and five interceptions in three games against the Saints.