PLAYER MATCHUP OF THE WEEK: Pats WR Wes Welker vs. Cards CB Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie
Welker (102 catches) earned his first Pro Bowl berth. Rodgers-Cromartie, a rookie, could end up on Welker in the slot. That's a tough assignment. Welker leads the NFL in yards after the catch (689). While Arizona has clinched its division, the Patriots need to keep winning and get some help to make the playoffs.
COACHING MATCHUP OF THE WEEK: Panthers' John Fox vs. Giants' Tom Coughlin
The winner clinches home-field advantage throughout the NFC playoffs. The Panthers have won three in a row behind a powerful run game. The Giants will try to match that strength with the expected return of massive back Brandon Jacobs. Carolina has never earned a No. 1 playoff seed in its 14-year existence. They were on the road for all three of their NFC title games, winning the one in 2003.
HERO OF THE DAY: Steve Smith, WR, Panthers
I'll take the Steve Smith from Carolina in this matchup with the Giants. This Smith ranks third in receiving yards (1,240) despite missing the first two games. He has 70 catches, a 17.7-yard average and six TDs. The Giants might be so focused on stopping the Panthers' RBs that Smith could break free a few times.
