NFC wild-card preview: Vikings vs. Eagles

Why the Vikings will win: RB Adrian Peterson, the league's leading rusher (1,760 yards), is reportedly fit despite aggravating a lingering ankle injury last week against the Giants. The Vikings, though finding steadier play at quarterback (Tarvaris Jackson) and in the receiving ranks (WR Bernard Berrian and TE Visanthe Shiancoe), advance only as far as the 2007 offensive rookie of the year takes them. The Eagles defense is built on blitzes and big hits, both of which could favor a player who possesses a rare blend of fullback power and track-star speed. With one defender assigned to him on certain plays, Peterson could be one shoulder, stiff-arm or juke from the end zone.

Why the Eagles will win: Adrian Peterson is a fumbler, and few things are more devastating in the playoffs than turnovers. He led all running backs with nine fumbles this season — five in December — and can expect a slew of defenders yanking at his forearms and at the ball all afternoon. The Eagles scored a franchise-record 416 points and have greater quick-strike capability from more players than the Vikings. That was on full display last week in a 44-6 rout of rival Dallas that earned Philly the sixth seed. Although Minnesota's defense is much improved, RB Brian Westbrook and WR DeSean Jackson are game-breakers.

Matchup to watch: QB Donovan McNabb vs. the Vikings secondary. Minnesota's defense finished the regular season 18th against the pass, averaging 216 yards, and allowed 49 plays of 20-plus yards. McNabb, who was benched at one point this season, hasn't made a playoff appearance since after the 2004 Super Bowl (Jeff Garcia led the Eagles to the NFC East title two years ago with McNabb out with a knee injury), and he has something to prove, even after throwing two touchdowns last week. The Vikings have the league's top-ranked rush defense, so McNabb might have to prove it often.

Quotable: "You live by the sword, you die by the sword, too. It might come back to hurt them. You never know. I'm just going to make sure I go out and focus. I'm not worried about protecting. Well, I worry about protecting the ball, but as far as guys stripping the ball or anything, I just go out and play my game." — Peterson, on the Eagles trying to strip the football

Number of the day

70 Yards by Peterson on 20 carries in a 23-16 home loss to the Eagles last season.

stephen f. Holder's Prediction: Eagles 23, Vikings 20

Brant James, Times staff writer