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Key players: Patriots

Image: Vince Wilfork: New England defensive leader will be after Eli Manning on Sunday

Alex Ferguson evaluates the five players key to New England's chances of success at Super Bowl XLVI ...

Alex Ferguson picks out the men to watch in Super Bowl XLVI

Tom Brady (Quarterback)
Tom Brady is God in New England. There's no question about it. When he dies, we'd be shocked if Boston isn't named after him, let alone the stadium. This year he's been at his best, destroying defense after defense. Sure, against a great 'D' (like Baltimore in the AFC Championship Game, who restricted Brady to 239 yards and two horrible interceptions), he was limited. But the Giants aren't that great as a D - so expect Tom Brady to shine.
Rob Gronkowski (Tight End)
This season's been all about Rob Gronkowski. He grabbed 17 touchdowns in the regular season and three more in the laugher against Denver. He was only held to 87 yards receiving (and no touchdowns) against the Ravens, but as Tom Brady's big target of 2011, the Giants are going to have to monitor him wherever he goes on Sunday if they are to win. If they fail, then 'Zeus' will celebrate upon Olympus. And yes, we know how good Wes Welker (not on this list), is too.
Vince Wilfork (Defensive Tackle)
Wilfork, the defense's leader this year, has been on form so far these play-offs, helping himself to two-and-a-half sacks against the Broncos and Ravens. He's also a leader in the 'D', which the Patriots have needed for a while. But other than that, it's Wilfork's potential to disrupt Eli Manning and the Giants offensive line that should scare the boys in blue. If they give him some room, he'll do some disrupting.
BenJarvus Green-Ellis (Running Back)
We all know that Tom Brady's going to be the key to the Patriots offense, but when the ball's not flying out of God's hand, the Giants 'D' is going to also have to watch out for Green-Ellis. Remember, the Giants were ripped for 150 yards by San Francisco. Don't be surprised if Ellis gets 15-or-so-touches here, too.
Matt Light (Left Tackle)
One of the most elite linemen in the NFL, Light's task is easy: protect Tom Brady. And when this happens, the Patriots' offense clicks. It's why Light and Brady have both got three Super Bowl rings and every time the Pats win a Super Bowl, Brady buys the offensive line something nice. If the Patriots win again, expect something similar. Matt, I'd go for a date with one of Brady's wife's buddies.

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