NFL Playoffs 2012: Michael Crabtree, Jermichael Finley Bound to Break Out

If Michael Crabtree ever wants to be considered a legitimate star in the NFL, he's going to have to play huge in the playoffs. 

We all know that's when stars are born.

You can play as good as you'd like to in the regular season, but the rubber meets the road in the playoffs.

There's something about etching your name into postseason lore that puts you a step above the rest, though.

Don't be fooled, there is quite a difference between being a star and a superstar.

Aaron Rodgers, Drew Brees and Tom Brady: They are all considered superstars because of their postseason performances.

A Super Bowl doesn't hurt either.

Let's park on Crabtree for a minute, but he's not the only star that needs to step up.

Michael Crabtree, WR, San Francisco 49ers

Crabtree had a decent year for the 49ers, with 874 yards and four touchdowns, but he wasn't anything spectacular.

At times throughout his young career he's shown signs that he can be a superstar, though, so there is no better time to step up and prove that then now.

The 49ers match up with the high-flying Saints, and it's expected that the 49ers defense is going to be key to keeping them in the game.

While that is true, if Crabtree can become a big-time option for Alex Smith in the postseason and lead them over the Saints, he can become a superstar.

Jermichael Finley, TE, Green Bay Packers

With 767 yards and eight touchdowns, Finley was a borderline star all season. He's physically superior to most defenders who try to cover him, and he's an incredible athlete.

The problem is, he's been inconsistent and has dropped some big catches.

If the Packer want to repeat as Super Bowl champions, they are going to need Finley to be a superstar.

What makes him so dangerous is that he's fast enough to line up in the slot or even out wide, and he's much bigger than any corners. He's also quicker than most linebackers, so he's a huge mismatch problem.

The Packers do a great job of getting him open, and of course Aaron Rodgers can get him the ball.

He's got to make those catches that keep the chains moving, and be a big-time touchdown scorer for the Packers.

I expect he will live up to his own hype this offseason.