NFC divisional playoff matchups. (NFL: divisional playoff preview).

The War Room offers its unique take on this week's NFC playoff matchups. For in-depth analysis, get TSN's Ultimate Matchups at www.sportingnews.com/nfl/matchups.

ATLANTA at PHILADELPHIA

When Atlanta has the ball: QB Michael Vick, who led the Falcons to a shocking upset over the Packers, faces a more challenging test against a relentless Eagles defense. What will lead to the Falcons' demise is the pressure the Eagles will generate. WRs Brian Finneran and Shawn Jefferson just don't pose a threat to CBs Bobby Taylor and Troy Vincent. The Eagles can play a lot of eight-man fronts to stop RBs Warrick Dunn and T.J. Duckett. Vick should be able to exploit the Eagles' aggressive man-to-man scheme at times by taking off and running for a few big chunks, but ultimately he'll be forced to do too much on his own.

When Philadelphia has the ball: QB Donovan McNabb might be rusty after an eight-week hiatus, so look for the Falcons to blitz a lot. CBs Ashley Ambrose and Ray Buchanan should be able to keep Eagles WRs Todd Pinkston and James Thrash in check in press man-to-man coverage, allowing the Falcons to be more aggressive with their blitzes. But as has been the case all season, RB Duce Staley will be the hero. The Falcons are undersized up front with NT Ed Jasper (293 pounds) and DEs Brady Smith (274) and Patrick Kerney (273). The Eagles averaged 138.8 rushing yards in the regular season and should be able to use their size advantage up front to control the trenches.

Bottom line: The Eagles' offense may sputter early, but a strong running attack will help McNabb get comfortable end should lead to a couple of big plays in the second half off play-action. The Eagles match up very well against a Falcons offense that won't be able to exploit the ...