NFL Playoff Schedule: Underrated Players Who Will Make an Impact

Every NFL season we see players "come out of nowhere" to make an impact in the playoffs.

The reality is, these players have been there all along. We just haven't paid close enough attention to them.

We're getting down to the wire as we head into the divisional round on Saturday, and the stakes have become even bigger.

Here are three underrated players I see making an impact in the divisional round.

3. Mario Manningham, WR, New York Giants

Mario Manningham still plays for the Giants. It's just that rookie Victor Cruz has stolen the spotlight, as he should.

Nonetheless, let's not forget that Manningham, the Giants' No. 3 receiver, had two impressive seasons with the Giants before 2011. Last season, he caught 60 balls for 944 yards and nine touchdowns.

Manningham hasn't gotten as many looks this season, but when the Atlanta Falcons shadowed Cruz in the Wild Card Round, Manningham was there to capitalize, racking up 68 yards and a score.

I expect Mannigham to get through the Green Bay Packers' secondary for another score in the divisional round.

2. Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco 49ers

I don't expect the 49ers to beat the New Orleans Saints, but I do believe it's going to be close, and former bust Michael Crabtree is going to have a good game.

Crabtree has finally started reaching his potential this season, racking up a team-high 874 yards and four touchdowns. Crabtree, remember, was the No. 10 overall pick in the 2009 NFL draft. He's looked much better and has actually been fairly consistent this year for the 49ers.

The 49ers will likely have to go to the air at some point against the Saints, and Crabtree will be ready.

1. Roman Harper, S, New Orleans Saints

Roman Harper isn't the same player he once was, but he still racked up 95 tackles, 7.5 sacks and two forced fumbles this season for the Saints.

I believe that Crabtree will score on the Saints. I also believe Harper will make some big plays against the run and sack 49ers quarterback Alex Smith on a blitz.