SAN FRANCISCO — As the Super Bowl approaches, the spotlight often shines on star players such as Drake Maye and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. However, history suggests that unheralded players can significantly influence the outcome of the game, particularly in the upcoming clash between the New England Patriots and the Seattle Seahawks.
Last year, Milton Williams was instrumental in a dominant defensive performance for the Philadelphia Eagles, which led to a victory over Kansas City. His standout play earned him a lucrative free agent contract with the Patriots this offseason. Kansas City has previously leaned on lesser-known receivers for their back-to-back titles, with Mecole Hardman catching the game-winning touchdown pass in overtime against San Francisco in Super Bowl 58, and Kadarius Toney making critical contributions, including a touchdown catch and a pivotal punt return to secure victory over the Eagles the year prior.
The history of the Super Bowl is dotted with unsung heroes. Players like Larry Brown, Dexter Jackson, and Malcolm Smith have earned MVP honors despite not being household names. Notable moments include Jack Squirek”s pick-six for the Raiders against Washington in Super Bowl 18 and Timmy Smith”s impressive 204 rushing yards in his first career start for Washington against Denver in Super Bowl 22. David Tyree”s iconic helmet catch that thwarted New England”s perfect season also stands out.
Here are some players to keep an eye on this Sunday:
New England WR Mack Hollins has traversed five teams in as many years but has consistently made valuable contributions. Known for his unconventional habits, such as going barefoot and eating without utensils, Hollins began his career as a special teams player. He recorded 46 receptions for 550 yards this past regular season, marking his second-most productive year. Hollins excelled in clutch situations, converting eight of his nine third or fourth down catches into first downs.
Seattle LB Drake Thomas, an undrafted linebacker in his third year, has emerged as a key figure in Seattle”s formidable defense. Having started 16 games throughout the regular season and playoffs, Thomas made a crucial interception in the red zone during the regular season that helped secure a division title for the Seahawks. He concluded the season with 3.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, and eight passes defended, showcasing his effectiveness against both the pass and run.
New England S Craig Woodson, a fourth-round rookie from Cal, quickly became an essential member of the Patriots” defense, playing more snaps than anyone else on the unit during the regular season. Woodson has been reliable against both the run and pass, stepping up significantly in the playoffs, including a key coverage play during a fourth-down stop in the AFC title game.
Seattle P Michael Dickson, the longest-tenured player on the Seahawks, was named a second-team All-Pro this season and has excelled in the playoffs. In the NFC championship game, Dickson placed four of his five punts inside the 20-yard line, with one resulting in a recovery for Seattle at the 17. His average drive for opponents after a Seahawks punt has started inside the 15-yard line, with only three touchbacks all season.
New England DT Khyiris Tonga has been crucial to the Patriots” strong run defense in his first year with the team, acting as a space-eater on the defensive line. He recorded a sack in the divisional round and has even taken on offensive duties as a blocking fullback.
Seattle RB George Holani was utilized sparingly in the regular season but stepped into a larger role after Zach Charbonnet suffered a season-ending knee injury. In the NFC title game, Holani played a career-high 23 snaps, matching his total catches from his first two seasons. He is expected to see significant usage on third downs due to his superior pass-blocking skills compared to starter Kenneth Walker.
