Unsung and Under the Radar: 8 Pivotal Performers to Watch in Super Bowl XLIV

WR Pierre Garcon, Indianapolis Colts: Fans expect an abundance of explosive plays when the two highly-touted offenses meet in Miami. The Colts' second-year rising receiving star could steal the Super Bowl spotlight, if Manning successfully stretches the field vertically. Garcon enters the game fresh off of an astonishing 11-151-1 performance to knockout the Jets' in the AFC Championship. Expect Manning to exploit the Saints' young corners and playmaker Darren Sharper's impulses, by targeting Garcon downfield from the game's outset.

OT Charlie Johnson, Indianapolis Colts: The Saints' relentless pounding of Brett Favre places the "protection-spotlight" on Peyton's blindside blocker, Charlie Johnson. Since emerging as the starter ahead of Tony Ugoh, Johnson's steady bookend play has aided the NFL's #1 offensive line, as the unit allowed a modest 13 total sacks during the regular season. Ultimately, if the Johnson and Co. keep Manning upright, expect a Colts' victory.

DE Raheem Brock, Indianapolis Colts: The uncertainty surrounding the health of Dwight Freeney's ankle has persisted as a significant Super Bowl storyline. Regardless, the role of back-up, Brock, will undoubtedly increase and prove pivotal to the Cols' front-four pressure to disrupt Brees' rhythm in the pocket. Expect Brock to play solid, but the 9-year veteran simply cannot compare to Freeney's unrivaled rush off the edge.

CB Jacob Lacey, Indianapolis Colts: Jeraud Powers' injured left-foot forces Lacey to continue to shoulder the load at cornerback opposite of Kelvin Hayden. The rookie, Lacey has proven surprisingly productive in aiding Indy's run support, while amassing 3 interceptions in coverage. The Colts' undersized cornerback will be tested repeatedly by the Saints' imposing targets, most notably Colston and Meachem.

TE David Thomas, New Orleans Saints: As a lingering knee injury continues to affect Saints' starter Jeremy Shockey's performance, Thomas' role in the Saints' explosive offense has increased significantly, compiling 16 receptions and 134 yards in the last 5 games. The Colts' potent pass rush should benefit Thomas as an underneath option for Brees, in an attempt to avoid negative plays by delivering the ball quickly.

OT Jermon Bushrod, New Orleans Saints: Undoubtedly, the Colts' possess one of the league's most formidable pass rushes. Bushrod has performed admirably, substituting for injured Pro-Bowler Jammal Brown, but expect Indianapolis to challenge the "Towson-tower" the entire game. If the Colts establish a commanding lead and force the Saints to abandon the run, Bushrod's performance will prove significant.

K Garrett Hartley, New Orleans Saints: The NFC Championship hero, Hartley, could inevitably deliver or deny the Saints-nation's first Super Bowl victory. Hartley's 43-yard game-winner versus the Vikings serves as the longest field goal, during a limited 7-game season at kicker. If the game is close down the stretch, the limited range of Hartley and Colts' kicker Matt Stover, emerges as an intriguing storyline.

SS Roman Harper, New Orleans Saints: Harper and the Saints' secondary form arguably the single-most important unit in Super Bowl XLIV. Favre dismantled the Saints' pass defense, while Manning and Co. impose an even superior airborne attack. Harper's ability or inability to match up with Dallas Clark and the Colts' slot receivers will prove instrumental to Indianapolis' ultimate success, particularly in 3^rd down situations.