Both teams will be allotted 46 players for Super Bowl XLVI, but in my humble opinion, only a few will impact the outcome. In no particular order, here is a list of those who just may shine brightly come game day.
Vince Wolfork
This mountain of a defensive tackle was truly effective against Baltimore despite being doubled teamed. His defensive teammates play off of his energy and it will virtually impossible for the Patriots to win if he does not repeat his Conference Championship performance.
Victor Cruz and Wes Welker
Each plays the slot receiver for their respective teams and both can create havoc in the short to mid range passing game. Cruz was virtually unstoppable against San Francisco, and while Welker had a quiet day against Baltimore, he is indeed Tom Brady’s security blanket. One of these two could determine which team drinks champagne after the game by grabbing 10 or more receptions good for over 100 yards.
Jason Pierre-Paul
Arguably the best defensive end in the NFL this year with 16.5 sacks. When you combine his ability to run down plays from the backside with his pass rushing skills, you have the exact reason Tom Brady may not sleep well the night before the game. He is beyond quick and could become the first defensive player since Dexter Jackson in 2003 to be named Super Bowl MVP. Patriots will learn early that a double team will not stop him.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis
Yes, this is the same young man that ran the ball splendidly for Indiana University before transferring to Mississippi and doing the same in the SEC. When New England needs tough rushing yards he will get the call. Better than average speed makes him a threat to do more than simply run between the tackles. This guy is tough as nails, will not fumble, and could possibly be a difference maker on long drives that consume the clock.
Lawrence Tynes
Sure, I hope it does not come down to a field goal in Super Bowl XLVI, but if it does for the Giants and it is a kick of 50 yards or less, Tynes is cash money. Call all the time outs you want, you cannot freeze him. A big time kicker with great accuracy, he will not miss a big one.
Tom Brady and Eli Manning
Sure, these are obvious picks, but the one who can pick himself up from the ground and take the punishment the best will probably guide his team to victory. Brady had an uncharacteristically off game (by his normal standards) against Baltimore and will have to play better for New England to win. Manning took a beat down against the 49ers and still stood tall. He’s tired of all the Peyton talk, and will not go down without a fight.
Danny Bridges is an award-winning journalist and a longtime sports columnist for the Indianapolis Recorder. He covers college, professional sports and especially all things IndyCar racing. He can be reached at 317-370-8447 or at bridgeshd@aol.com.
