4th and Long

NFC Championship Preview

By Caleb Musselman



When I was in high school, I got a girlfriend. I could not wait to tell everyone. I would talk about her all the time, to everyone around me. I was probably more annoying than furbies or Ty Domi. This week I feel about the same way. Although this mystery girl is very much out of the picture today, I have found someone new to talk about (although not quite in the same infatuated way): Colin Kaepernick.

            I thought about the NFC Championship coming up this week, and no matter how many times I tried to think about the strength of the Falcons Receiving Core or Michael Crabtree’s breakout season, I just kept coming back to Kaepernick. This guy is absolutely exhilarating. I can’t stop talking about him. His 2012 QB passer rating reads 76.8 and is 3rd behind only Manning (84.1) and Brady (77.1). Yes, that means he topped Rodgers, Luck, Brees and Ryan (and Eli). Wow.

            As much as I respect Alex Smith’s work with San Fran over the past few years, Kaepernick gives them exactly what Smith never could. He gives them explosiveness and playmaking ability that the Jim Harbaugh era desperately needed. However, not only is he among the elite running QB’s in the league along with Newton, Griffin III and Wilson, his arm strength and accuracy have greatly improved as his young career progresses. He’s the total package.

            Enough about schoolboy crushes.

            This weekend showcases two fantastic games; both preceded by excellent headlines. The Ravens/Patriots will be an outstanding game (see Ryan’s article). However, I am much more interested in the 3:00 o’clock game where Atlanta plays host to San Francisco. Let’s be honest, the Patriots are old news, and only people from Maryland truly want the Ravens to win it all this year. That leaves the People’s Choice award up to either San Fran or Atlanta.

Photo Cred www.blacksportonline.com

            What to expect: First, expect fantastic quarterback play. Matt Ryan showed flashes of brilliance last week. It also helps that he throws to the best 1-2 wide receiver combo in the league (Jones and White), and the best receiving tight end to ever play the game (Mr. Gonzalez). I expect Ryan to throw for 250 and 2 touchdowns. Expect Kaepernick to continue his unbelievable season. He has yet to make Vernon Davis a legitimate part of the offense. Atlanta is desperately hoping that does not happen this week. Crabtree will have 8 or 9 catches for 100 and a TD. He is becoming something special.

            Second, above average rushing games. Neither team has an unbelievable rushing attack, but that is mostly because neither coach is willing to take the ball out of their star QB’s hands on a consistent basis. Frank Gore is a monster and he will bruise the Falcons all game long. In an Alex Smith offensive scheme, he would be the key to San Fran’s success. However, matched with Kaepernick’s dynamic scrambling ability, their rushing attack gives them the edge over the two-headed rushing attack of Rodgers and Turner.

Photo Cred www.blog.thenewstribune.com

            Third, expect a tenacious San Fran D-line to give Matt Ryan fits. The Smiths (Justin and Aldon) are a force to be reckoned with. Ryan’s inability to move outside the pocket will prove to be his downfall in this battle of NFC powerhouses. The problem with giving Jacquizz Rodgers more snaps is that his weak blocking abilities will be put on center stage.

            Fourth, expect Atlanta to have a quick start. Just like last week, Atlanta will use the home crowd to fuel a strong 1st half. However, unlike Seattle, San Fran will be up for the challenge and keep pace during the first few opening drives.

            Finally, expect to be entertained. This game is going to be truly fascinating to watch. Between fast paced offensive power and athletic dominance at a premium, you do not want to miss this game. It is not often that the number 1 seed in the conference is an underdog in its own building, but I think it fitting on this occasion.

Photo Cred www.bleacherreport.com

            Atlanta will use the home crowd to keep pace with San Francisco throughout this heavyweight battle, but Kaepernick and the 49ers D will come out the victors. If this game was played in Candlestick I’d say 31-17 San Fran, but because it’s in the Dome I’ll give the Falcons a chance. Ryan plays well but runs out of magic and Tony Gonzalez ends his career with 1 playoff win. It was a cute story while it lasted. Kaepernick leads a game-winning TD drive in the final two minutes capped by a signature QB scramble. 

Touchdown, kiss the bicep. On to the ship.

Final Score: San Francisco 31 Atlanta 27

Patriots 27 Ravens 24