Nfl Matchups

Carolina at Green Bay

Line: Packers by 12-1/2.

Last meeting: First meeting.

Worth watching: The man on the spot is Carolina’s second-year quarterback, Kerry Collins. He has guided the Panthers this far, but winning on a frigid day at Lambeau Field is another issue. The Packers need a big rushing performance from RB Edgar Bennett, who loves to run on bad fields.

Outlook: A generation of frustration in Wisconsin is about to end. The Packers have won 17 in a row and 24 of their last 25 at Lambeau Field. They proved again last week how versatile they are, riding their special teams to victory over San Francisco. Green Bay QB Brett Favre plays well in cold weather. The Packers’ defense will show the Panthers how far they have yet to go as Green Bay returns to the Super Bowl for the first time in 29 years.

Jacksonville at New England

Line: Patriots by 7.

Last meeting: Patriots won, 28-25, in OT at New England on Sept. 22, 1996.

Worth watching: Jacksonville RB Natrone Means carries the Jaguars’ upset hopes on his back. He has rushed for 425 yards in the last three games. If Means has a big game, it will keep New England QB Drew Bledsoe on the sideline.

Outlook: Patriots simply have too much on offense. Bledsoe has taken his place as one of the NFL’s best, Curtis Martin is a complete running back, and tight end Ben Coates is tough to stop. The Patriots took command of the Pittsburgh game quickly last week.