Patriots: AFC Championship game balls
Jan 18, 2015; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots outside linebacker Jamie Collins (91) celebrates with defensive tackle Sealver Siliga (96) after an interception during the fourth quarter against the Indianapolis Colts in the AFC Championship Game at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Greg M. Cooper-USA TODAY Sports
Ninkovich had a terrific game on Sunday, putting consistent pressure on Luck and recording three tackles during the game. He also added two passes defended, which is exceptional for a defensive end. Ninkovich continues to impress through his smarts, as he reads quarterbacks very well and correctly predicts their next decision. He already had done this against the Ravens, but this past week he really made a huge impact. One of these defended passes he almost caught himself, but then was obstructed by Vince Wilfork, who was also aiming for the interception.”Nink” will have to continue his exceptional play in the Super Bowl as he will have the difficult job trying to read Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson.
Personally, I believe Jamie Collins has been the best defender on the Patriots this entire season and Advanced Football Analytics also agrees that he adds the most win-probability per game of any defensive Patriot. Collins continued to put his athleticism on display in the AFC Championship getting a team high four tackles and also adding an interception with a 25 yard return. Collins also had a nice blitz on which he got to Luck only a tiny bit to late. He has been the Patriots break out player of the year, and hopefully he can continue to play that way in his first Super Bowl.
Next: Minitron and player of the game