Mano a mano: Adrian Peterson vs. Jonathan Vilma

Peterson gained only 63 yards on 26 rushing attempts (2.4 average) in Sunday's victory over Dallas, marking the eighth consecutive game in which the Pro Bowl running back has failed to run for 100 yards. But that performance came against a Dallas defense that was ranked fourth against the run during the regular season. The Saints haven't had nearly that much success against the run.

New Orleans, which will need a big game from the veteran Vilma in the middle if they are to slow Peterson, was 21st vs. the run and gave up a 70-yard touchdown run to Arizona's Tim Hightower on the first play from scrimmage Saturday in the Saints' 45-14 rout of the Cardinals in the NFC divisional playoffs.

The Saints also were 26th against the pass this season, so it will be interesting to see how they approach trying to contain Peterson while keeping Brett Favre in check. If Peterson needs any motivation, and it's likely he won't, he was held to 32 yards on 21 carries in the Vikings' 30-27 victory over New Orleans in October 2008 in a Monday night game.

Click here to order Jon Vilma’s proCane Rookie Card.



(startribune.com)