Patriots vs. Broncos: 6 Surprise Hero Candidates

Jan 16, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots cornerback Justin Coleman (22) runs onto the field during player introductions prior to the AFC Divisional round playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports /

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5. Malcom Brown

Granted, it wouldn’t come as a huge surprise if Brown had an outstanding game against the Broncos. After all, he’s fully lived up to his billing as a first round pick, stepping into a starting role on the interior of the New England defensive line and delivering week in and week out.

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However, what would be a surprise is if the Patriots are able to contain C.J. Anderson and Ronnie Hillman enough to make Manning win this game with his right arm. That should be the game plan of the Patriots entering the AFC Championship Game; stopping the run and forcing Manning’s 39-year-old arm to heave the Broncos to victory.

Front and center of that plan is Brown. The better the 21-year-old plays, the less success Anderson and Hillman will have gouging the Patriots for big gains on the ground. It certainly would be a surprise if the Patriots held the Broncos to under, say, 60 yards rushing. If that’s the case, Brown will almost certainly be viewed as the surprise hero of the game.

Next: 4. Keshawn Martin

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