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Patriots vs. Broncos: 6 Surprise Hero Candidates

By Connor Fulton

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
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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Brandon King Patriots
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1. Brandon King

It’s no secret that the Patriots’ special teams haven’t been as solid this season as they have been in recent years. The playoffs can be won or lost on account of special teams play, which is why undrafted rookie King gets a shoutout here.

From the Brandon King vault: Brandon King is the next Matthew Slater                            

Look, King has been one of the more overlooked bright spots from the Patriots’ 2015 season. He is a Bill Belichick player if there ever was one, offering great versatility on defense (he played defensive end, linebacker and safety at Auburn) and a willingness to do anything the Patriots ask of him.

As a result, King has been Matthew Slater’s coverage partner on punts, and he’s been a stud. Against the Broncos, look for King to make a few nice plays on punt coverage, be it downing a ball inside the five yard line or forcing a fumble on a return. He’s a fun player to watch.

So there you have it. Coleman, Brown, Martin, Freeny, Cannon and King should be considered the top surprise hero candidates in the AFC Championship Game.

Next: Top 15 Patriots Moments of 2015

Stay tuned here on Musket Fire all week as we bring you fresh points of analysis leading up to the AFC Championship Game.

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