All of the predictions in the world will now matter one bit once the players hit the Lucas Oil Stadium field to face off for the Lombardi Trophy. The Giants and Patriots have heard it all, but it all comes down to who plays the best and which team is the most prepared to exploit matchups that lean in their favor. What could be some of the matchups on the field that will determine who walks away with the victory?
Matt Light vs. Giants pass rush
If Tom Brady is going to help the Patriots to victory, he will need to depend on Matt Light to protect his blindside from the likes of Osi Umenyiora, Justin Tuck, and Jason Pierre-Paul. New York will be bringing the heat and trying to put Brady on his back. If they are successful and take Bradyoff of his game, the Patriots offense will not be able to get going and it will ultimately lead to New York running away with the game. It will be a tough task for Matt Light. He needs to prove he is up for it on the big stage if he wants to add another Super Bowl ring to his collection.
Tom Coughlin vs. Bill Belichick
The two head coaches have faced off three times in their careers. In the first meeting, Belichick came out victorious. However, Coughlin has won the previous two meetings — including the victory in Super Bowl XLII. In all three games, the point differential has been four points or less. This means we could have another close game today and it will come down to which coach prepared their team the best and will make the most effective in-game adjustments.
Victor Cruz vs. Julian Edelman
Surely the Patriots cannot use Julian Edelman to cover the slot again. If they do make that decision, Edelman will be lined up against Giants playmaker Victor Cruz. This is about as uneven as a matchup that you can have at this level of football. If Edelman is on Cruz, Cruz will have a field day and could very well being the difference in this game and it will result with him being named Super Bowl XLVI MVP.
Giants linebackers/safeties vs. Patriots tight ends
There is no secret about the weapons the New England Patriots have at the tight end position. They create a matchup nightmare in every game and have been a big part of why New England has returned to the Super Bowl. New York could be catching a break with a less than 100% Rob Gronkowski, but they cannot afford to forget about Aaron Hernandez. Gronkowski will play, but don’t be surprised to see him used primarily as a blocker and decoy. Gronkowski will be drawing attention in hopes of the Giants overlooking Hernandez and letting him streak down the seam uncovered. If New York wants to win, they need to keep the Patriots tight ends in check.
Chad Ochocinco vs. Chad Ochocinco
Chad Ochocinco could be a difference maker in this game if he can get past himself. Ochocinco has had a rough time learning the Patriots offense and has failed to make an impact on the field. That could all change tonight if Ochocinco can return to his old self and play with the passion and joy that we’ve seen from him in the pass. If Ochocinco can get out of his own head, he will play loose on the field and be able to get open and help his team. Could Ochocinco play a big part in today’s game? Absolutely. He just needs to convince himself he is still the same old Eight Five.
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