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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4. Keshawn Martin

Now that Julian Edelman is back in the fold and picking up first downs regularly, the natural pecking order of the Patriots’ passing attack is back in order. Rob Gronkowski and Edelman dominate the majority of opposing defenses’ attention, Danny Amendola and Brandon LaFell are the other top options at wideout, and James White and Keshawn Martin get the scraps.

Takeaways from Patriots’ win over Chiefs

But here’s the thing; the scraps aren’t bad. Against the Denver Broncos’ suffocating defense, Tom Brady will have to find receivers not named Edelman or Gronk to make big plays. Martin displayed his playoff competence this past weekend by snagging two passes for 57 yards, including a nifty 42-yard bomb on the sideline.

Don’t be surprised if Martin torches the Broncos for a long gain or two on Sunday afternoon. It will take a surprise performance from LaFell, White or Martin for the Patriots to advance to the Super Bowl; look for Martin to be that player.

Next: 3. Jonathan Freeny

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