Saints, Vikings sure to be downright offensive

Series record
The Vikings lead the overall series 20-7, including wins in two playoff games.

Last time: The Saints committed four turnovers, and Vikings K Ryan Longwell nailed a winning 30-yard field goal with 13 seconds remaining to lead Minnesota past New Orleans 30-27 in Week 5 of last season.

Three things to watch:
Point taken: You want offense? You want points? Well, it looks like we'll have plenty in this NFC title game, as the Saints (31.9 PPG) and Vikings (29.4 PPG) are the two highest scoring teams in the league. This will be the fifth time since 1970 that the No. 1 and No. 2 scoring teams in the NFL will square off in a conference championship game.

Old friends on opposite ends: With so much offense expected in this game, the difference could be one or two pivotal mistakes. Enter opportunistic Saints FS Darren Sharper, who may know a thing or two about Vikings QB Brett Favre. After all, the two were teammates in Green Bay from 1997-2004. Sharper, who had a fumble recovery in the divisional game, came through with nine interceptions this season, three of which he returned for touchdowns. So look for Sharper to keep a close eye on No. 4 and his tendencies.

Rush more: Led by DE Ray Edwards, the Vikings harassed Tony Romo in the divisional game, sacking the Cowboys QB six times (three for Edwards) while forcing three fumbles. Edwards and DE Jared Allen will need to force that kind of pressure again vs. Drew Brees, who threw for 247 yards and three touchdowns while not being sacked once vs. Arizona.

Notes
Minnesota is playing in its first NFC title game since 2000, a 41-0 shutout defeat to the Giants. ... The Saints, who are hosting their first NFC title game, are making just their second appearance in their 43-year history. Last time they lost 39-14 to the Bears in the 2006 NFC title game.