Caputo: Three Keys In The NFC Championship, San Francisco At Atlanta
By: Pat Caputo
1. Can the Falcons' defense contain 49ers quarterback Colin Kaepernick: Look, the kid is a tremendous passer and wide receiver Michael Crabtree has had a breakout season. But the Falcons must nonetheless keep Kaepernick in the pocket. It is their only chance. When Kaepernick breaks contain to the outside while running, it's over.
2. Will the Falcons establish a running game: The Falcons running attack was very good against Seattle last week, but struggled a lot rushing the ball during the regular season. If the 49ers are able to make it a one-dimensional game, QB Matt Ryan and the Falcons offense will be in trouble, despite having terrific receivers such as Roddy White, Julio Jones and Tony Gonzalez.
3. It's about turnovers. The team that turns the ball over the least will win. It's virtually always that way in a huge game like this, isn't it?
