Three key matchups: Seahawks vs. Patriots
Seahawks SS Kam Chancellor vs. Patriots TE Rob Gronkowski: This the power matchup of the game. The hard-hitting Chancellor against the rugged and fast Gronkowski. There certainly will be fireworks here. Chancellor is the tone-setter for the rugged Seahawks defense and is a thunderous hitter. Gronkowski lines up all over the field, with the Patriots trying find a matchup. "He's a great player, no doubt," Gronkowski said. "He plays fast, and he's all over the field. He knows how to make plays."
Seahawks RB Marshawn Lynch vs. Patriots LB Chandler Jones: Lynch has averaged 108 yards per game and 5.5 yards per carry in two playoff games. He helped to close-out Green Bay with a 24-yard touchdown round in the NFC Championship game. The Patriots know that it takes an army to bring the hard-charging Lynch to the ground. "They have a very powerful offense," Jones said. "Marshawn Lynch is a guy that could run through and run over your whole defense if you let him, if you don't wrap up."
Seahawks LB Bobby Wagner vs. Patriots RB LeGarrette Blount: Wagner was a two-star recruit coming out of high school and accepted his only offer, from Utah State. He's now a Pro Bowler on the NFL's top-rated defense. He'll lead the charge against the powerful Blount, who's had a troubled but productive career. He rushed for 148 yards in the AFC Championship game victory over Indianapolis.
About the Author
Honored by the Pro Football Hall of Fame in recognition of his "long and distinguished reporting in the field of pro football," D. Orlando Ledbetter, Esq. has covered the NFL 28 seasons. A graduate of Howard University, he's a winner of Georgia Sportswriter of the Year and three Associated Press Sports Editor awards.
