NFL Playoff X Factors
- Author:
- Publish date:
NFL Playoff X Factors
Jermichael Finley
The 6-foot-5 tight end became a much bigger factor for the Packers in the second half of the season and has become a very difficult matchup for either a linebacker or a defensive back. Green Bay has been running the ball well and has dangerous perimeter weapons, so it's hard to give Finley as much attention as he probably deserves.
Calais Campbell
Campbell had seven sacks this season, emerging as a bona fide pass-rushing threat to complement Darnell Dockett. But he broke his left thumb last week and will likely try to play with a cast. The Cardinals desperately need him to be on the field against red-hot Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers.
Will Witherspoon
The Eagles acquired Witherspoon from the Rams midseason and he has become one of their most frequent blitzers, which will be huge as the Eagles try to pressure Dallas' Tony Romo. Philadelphia held back its blitzes in the first half last week against the Cowboys and paid dearly.
Anthony Spencer
Dallas has had success against the Eagles by keeping Donovan McNabb off-balance with a consistent pass rush. Spencer had his way with Philly in Week 17, making two sacks, two pressures and a forced fumble. Spencer, a third-year pro out of Purdue, has become much more of a factor this season, with six sacks and becoming an effective complement to star DE DeMarcus Ware.
Brad Smith
Smith came on strong at the end of the season to help the Jets make the playoffs and should be a big factor against Cincinnati. He returned a kick for a touchdown against Indy in Week 16 and ran for 92 yards in just four carries against the Bengals in Week 17. The Jets are looking for ways to lighten the load on rookie QB Mark Sanchez, and lining up Smith at quarterback has been very effective. The big question -- will they let the former Missouri quarterback pass on Saturday?
Bernard Scott
Scott averaged 31.5 yards in 16 kickoff returns, and his 96-yard return was the key to the Bengals' Week 10 win over the Steelers. The Jets' coverage unit gave up two kickoff return TDs to Ted Ginn Jr. in a loss to the Dolphins. In what could be a close, defensive struggle, a big kickoff return could make the difference in Cincy. Scott has been slowed by turf toe, but he says he's ready to go Saturday.
Julian Edelman
The former Kent State quarterback will fill in for slot receiver Wes Welker, who tore up his knee last Sunday at Houston. Edelman had 10 catches for 103 yards against the Texans and ended up with 37 receptions on the season. He is similar in size and build to Welker and will be counted on to move the chains against a Ravens' pass defense that has been inconsistent this season.
Jared Gaither
Gaither returned to the Ravens' lineup last week and looked good after missing a month with a foot injury. He helped Baltimore run for 240 yards against the Raiders. Gaither could be the key to springing the Ravens' running game against a vulnerable Patriots defense.
Ben Leber
The veteran stepped up when linebacker E.J. Henderson was injured, moving over to middle linebacker in passing situations to help cover up a Vikings' deficiency. While often overshadowed by the stars on the defensive line and flashier LB Chad Greenway, Leber has had a knack for being around the action of late and should be a big factor for a unit that has been outstanding at times.
Carl Nicks
New Orleans' right guard Jahri Evans made the Pro Bowl, but the Saints love to run behind the bruising Nicks. While everyone thinks of the Saints as a pass-first team, they've had a lot of success this season when they establish their rushing attack. Like most offensive lineman, Nicks sometimes needs help in pass protection, but he can be a real force on run plays.
Brandon Siler
The young, developing linebacker makes a lot of noise when he's on the field and has developed into one of San Diego's most effective weapons against the run game. Siler is one of many Charger defenders who got an opportunity to play because of injuries. He's tied for the team lead in tackles for a loss (four) and could be very important if San Diego faces a run-first team like the Bengals or Jets in the divisional playoffs.
Clint Session
Session started to garner more attention league-wide this year for his hard hitting, big plays in crucial moments and unruly facial hair. The Colts' leading tackler may still be a bit underappreciated on this star-studded team. He brings some of the intensity Indy lost when star safety Bob Sanders got hurt.<br><br>Send comments to siwriters@simail.com