Pay close attention to the edges, where, in passing situations, Rams DEs Leonard Little and Grant Wistrom, who combined for 23½ sacks this season, go up against Green Bay’s excellent young tackles, Mark Tauscher and Chad Clifton, respectively.

Even though Green Bay’s offense didn’t get untracked vs. the Niners until it opened up the passing game after halftime at Favre’s request, look for the Packers to try to establish a ground game early. The Rams’ defense hasn’t given up a TD pass in the past two games.

Lovie Smith’s speedy unit, which has done a great job tackling all season, will have its work cut out for it against dual-threat RB Ahman Green, who has made a habit out of gaining extra yardage after contact.

Favre, who loves to spread the ball around (he connected with nine different receivers vs. the Niners), promises to keep the Rams’ pass defense on its toes.

Look for Favre to test the Rams’ linebackers with passes underneath to WR Antonio Freeman, who scored a TD in his fourth straight playoff game last Sunday, as well as Green and FB William Henderson on dump-offs.

When the Rams have the ball:

Against an offense that was held under 20 points only twice this season, the Packers’ defense must be prepared for the Rams’ customary free-wheeling gadgetry out of constantly shifting formations.

It also must try to force Warner, who threw three interceptions in his last game, into making mistakes with its unsuspecting blitzes.

The Packers also must try to contain the ever-dangerous Marshall Faulk, the first player in league history with four consecutive 2,000-yard rushing-receiving seasons.

Faulk, whose workload gradually increased down the stretch, could pose a stiff challenge for a Packers defense that remains at less than full strength at linebacker and in the secondary.

When Faulk totals at least 150 yards rushing and receiving, the Rams are 24-1.

The Rams’ interior offensive line must contain DT Gilbert Brown, who set the tone for a strong defensive performance vs. the Niners with his sack of Garcia for a four-yard loss on the game’s opening play.

Packers CBs Mike McKenzie and Tyrone Williams should give the Rams’ primary receiving targets, Isaac Bruce (who is expected to be fully recovered from a lower back strain) and Torry Holt, a good battle.

But Green Bay could run into trouble in nickel situations, with Tod McBride and Keith Thibodeaux leaving a lot to be desired.

Either SS Bhawoh Jue (ribs, check status) or Billy Jenkins must keep an eye out for Rams TE Ernie Conwell, an increasingly dangerous weapon.

All game previews and depth charts were compiled as of Jan. 13.

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