NFC first-round matchups
1. Dallas vs. 16. Minnesota
How Dallas can win: This defensive front is going to overwhelm the Minnesota offensive line. Steve Walsh doesn’t stand a chance of getting the ball to his wideouts with sackmasters Harvey Martin and Von Miller screaming around the edge and with no chance to step up in a pocket being collapsed by Bob Lilly and Mean Joe Greene. It’s going to be a game of constant harassment that should lead to ballhawk Everson Walls getting chances at picks. The Wishbone attack could end up with over 300 rushing yards as Earl Campbell, Adrian Peterson and LaDainian Tomlinson run through a questionable Minnesota defensive line. — K.D. Drummond, Cowboys Wire
How Minnesota can win: Dallas has a menacing pass rush, but Minnesota has a star-studded offensive line, in addition to fullback Bronko Nagurski, who can provide added protection. Minnesota can run it right down the Dallas defense, with Marion Barber III finding open lanes. On defense, linebackers James Laurinaitis and Karl Mecklenburg can disrupt the Dallas offense. If Steve Walsh can get the ball out to Adam Thielen and Larry Fitzgerald with plenty of time, Minnesota could pull the upset. — Jack White, Vikings Wire
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Other matchups:
Hou vs Den / LAC vs Buf / Jax vs KC / Cin vs Ten / Pit vs Bal / Cle vs Ind / NYJ vs LV / Mia vs NE // Was vs NYG / Atl vs TB / SF vs Sea / Car vs Ari / LAR vs GB / Phi vs Det / NO vs Chi