As the Green Bay Packers gear up to face the Dallas Cowboys in the highly anticipated Super Wildcard Weekend matchup, there are three key elements to keep an eye on in this exciting clash.

Firstly, the Packers enter the postseason ticking two crucial boxes. They are currently playing their best football, with several position groups showcasing exceptional performances. Furthermore, the team is enjoying a rare state of optimal health, which bodes well for their playoff aspirations.

However, as the seventh seed, the Packers will face a formidable challenge in traveling to Dallas. The Cowboys have been on a remarkable 16-game winning streak at home. Boasting a high-octane offense and a defense renowned for their ability to generate takeaways and relentlessly pursue the quarterback, the Cowboys will test the Packers in multiple ways.

Of particular concern for Green Bay is the presence of standout linebacker Micah Parsons, whom Packers coach Matt LaFleur described as a "freak show" and a "game-wrecker." LaFleur emphasized the need to stay aware of Parsons' movements on the field. Additionally, the Cowboys' secondary possesses exceptional ball skills, making precision and timing crucial in the Packers' passing game. Wideouts must maintain correct pad level and execute routes flawlessly to avoid surrendering interceptions to the Cowboys' formidable defensive unit.

In order to succeed against the Cowboys, the Packers will need to establish a strong running game led by Aaron Jones. The Cowboys have shown vulnerability to teams that have effectively run against them, proven by their four out of five losses this season in which they allowed substantial rushing yards. Jones, who has notched three consecutive 100-yard performances, will be a key figure in the Packers' offensive strategy. By controlling the ground game, the Packers can open up opportunities in the passing game while neutralizing the threat posed by Parsons and the Cowboys' pass rush. Moreover, a strong rushing attack will help the Packers maintain possession and keep the potent Cowboys offense off the field.

Generating explosive pass plays against the Cowboys' man coverage will also be crucial for the Packers' success. However, this task will not be easy, as the Cowboys possess a formidable pass rush led by Parsons, who topped the NFL in pressures during the regular season. The Cowboys' defense ranks first in ESPN's pass rush win rate metric, highlighting their ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. While the Packers receivers have performed well against man coverage, it will be vital for Jordan Love to have sufficient time in the pocket to allow plays to develop. A successful passing game will not only lead to big plays but also keep the Cowboys' defense on their heels.

Limiting the Cowboys' potent passing game will be a daunting challenge for the Packers' defense. The Cowboys averaged close to 30 points per game during the regular season, with their passing attack being a significant contributor. Receivers such as CeeDee Lamb, Jake Ferguson, and Brandin Cooks pose multiple threats that the Packers will need to address effectively. Given the potential absence of star cornerback Jaire Alexander, the Packers' defensive strategy becomes even more critical. Pressuring Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott will be crucial, as he has shown exceptional efficiency when facing duress throughout the season. Converting pressure opportunities into sacks will be vital for the Packers' defensive success.

As the Green Bay Packers square off against the Dallas Cowboys in this Super Wildcard Weekend matchup, it is clear that both teams possess formidable strengths and face significant challenges. The Packers will need to rely on their running game, generate explosive pass plays against man coverage, and find a way to limit the Cowboys' prolific passing attack to secure a victory. This highly anticipated clash promises to be an intense battle between two talented teams vying for a chance to advance in the playoffs.