1. Contain Peterson » New Orleans’ run defense is not good and if Adrian Peterson has a big day, the Saints will lose by 10 points. Peterson’s problem is that defenses can stop him for 19 carries and he’ll bust one on the 20th. The pressure is on linebackers Jonathan Vilma and Scott Fujita in particular to defend the cutbacks.

2. Harass Favre » Quarterback Brett Favre can still move, but is not as mobile as in the past. He was sacked 23 times on the road this season compared to 11 at home. Defensive end Will Smith must win his battle vs. left tackle Bryant McKinnie as the Saints can’t afford to send too many blitzes considering the Vikings’ offensive talent.

Vikings’ keys to the game

1. Win the return battle » This is true of both teams, but it’s even more important for the road team. Minnesota’s Percy Harvin is dangerous and more consistent than New Orleans’ Reggie Bush. But Bush returned two punts for touchdowns vs. Minnesota in 2008. Yes, they remember.

2. No turnovers » The Saints’ defense works when it forces turnovers. When they don’t, they’re a rather average unit, or worse. But New Orleans, with 39, forced more than any team this season. Favre only threw seven interceptions this season, but Peterson lost six fumbles. Since 1990, home teams that win the turnover battle have won approximately 95 percent of the time.

Key matchups


Jared Allen • Vikings • DE » Relentless All-Pro who has 15 1/2 sacks; helped by playing on a talented line.

vs.
Jermon Bushrod • Saints • LT » His worst game came against Dallas in a loss; Allen causes everyone fits.

Chad Greenway • Vikings • LB » He has the speed and coverage ability to be effective and he must contain Bush.

vs.
Reggie Bush • Saints • RB » Coming off a huge game, but his impact on offense this season has been minimal.

Visanthe Shiancoe • Vikings • TE » Others get more attention, but Shiancoe has caught 12 touchdown passes this season.

vs.
Darren Sharper • Saints • S » Has intercepted nine passes, three for touchdowns. Will he get another off good buddy Favre?

State of the teams


VIKINGS » Minnesota is more balanced than New Orleans as a team, thanks to a more well-rounded defense and a more dangerous running game. But while the Saints are getting healthy, the Vikings have some injury concerns.

SAINTS » The Superdome will be extra loud: New Orleans is hosting its first NFC Championship Game and playing for its first Super Bowl trip. But it’s not a gimme; their first two losses this season came at home.

Examiner predicts


Drew Brees leads the Saints to the Super Bowl! A great story! Nope, we’ll get two more weeks of Brett Favre drama instead.

Vikings 27, Saints 24

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