This time last year, they were preparing for the combine. Now, a number of key rookies are in the spotlight as their teams aim to advance to conference championship games.

The Cardinals and Saints should produce plenty of action Saturday, with close to 80 pass plays and at least 60 points scored. Here are the three pressing questions I have as I study the matchup.

With New Orleans, San Diego and Minnesota atop their respective divisions, it shows that the smaller-market clubs can still succeed without being among the highest-spenders.

Does your favorite team need help? Are you hoping that free agency will be the key this coming offseason? The lack of stars at the money positions could leave you feeling empty.

The veteran free-agency signing period begins on Feb. 27, and here's an in-depth look at each NFC team's potential key free agents and offseason course of action.