2. Astros must run
They quit running last year in the playoffs, and it cost them against San Diego. The Astros have to hit-and-run and steal a base when they can. This is one area in which Greg Maddux is not perfect. The Astros can run on him. With Maddux throwing Game 1 and maybe Game 5, that's the only way Houston can beat him. The Braves pitchers throw strikes, so the Astros need to set runners in motion to get someone in the Atlanta infield moving. John Smoltz is even a sinker-ball type pitcher now, so the Astros aren't going to get three ground-ball base hits very often.

3. A composed Rocker
John Rocker must keep his composure. On the other side, Houston's Billy Wagner is the most feared closer in the game. Rocker has been tremendous at home, but has struggled on the road. He has to stay within himself. What I mean by "composure" is that some pitchers forget to pitch. They can throw too many fastballs, and that's what Rocker has to avoid. The most underrated part of the Braves is their bullpen, which was second in the majors in ERA (3.58). I thought their bullpen outpitched New York's in both series with the Mets. They were the difference. The Braves bullpen is a lot better than people think.

4. Health of Brian Jordan
I'm not sure how healthy his sore right hand is. I'm a good friend of Brian's, but I'm not sure if he will be honest with me about how his hand feels. Jordan, who led the Braves with 115 RBI, has swung a hot bat at the end of the season, and the Braves need their top run producer in the lineup, especially if the Astros pitch around Jones.

5. Ryan Klesko
He is what Atlanta is all about this year. Klesko slimmed down and got in great shape to play the outfield. Then, when Andres Galarraga got hurt, Klesko went to first base. He has had some leg problems, but he's been a team player -- he'll hit when and where Bobby Cox wants. He has been a quietly productive performer and has put together a good year.

Former major-league pitcher Rick Sutcliffe will be covering the playoffs for ESPN.