NFL Playoffs 2012: Power Ranking Defenses Left in Hunt for Super Bowl

There are just four teams left in the 2012 NFL playoffs, and after Sunday, there will be two franchises competing for Super Bowl glory in Indianapolis.

While the playoffs used to be about defense and running the ball, the league has been evolving toward pass-happy offenses, and they have been finding success in January and February.

With that said, defense is still extremely important, and a few big plays on that side of the football can completely change a game.

Let’s take a look at the four defensive units left in the postseason and rank them from worst to first.

No. 4—New England Patriots

The Patriots held Tim Tebow and the Denver offense in check, but that isn’t saying much.

This was one of the worst units in the league during the regular season, and stopping a quarterback who has notoriously bad accuracy and a game plan that hinged on pounding the ball on the ground isn’t anything to write home about.

They need to show they have truly improved by shutting the Ravens down and making sure they can’t put up points on Sunday.

No. 3—New York Giants

New York excels at rushing the passer and has been able to win two playoff games by recording six sacks and only allowing two touchdowns through the air so far.

However, they face a 49ers team that prides itself on protecting their QB and creating running room for their backs.

The Giants are giving up 105.5 yards on the ground this postseason, and that number must improve if they want to get back to the Super Bowl.

No. 2—Baltimore Ravens

Baltimore conceded just 13 points against Houston and were able to force four turnovers, which is largely the reason they are advancing to the AFC Championship game.

If any team can slow Tom Brady’s electrifying offense, it will be these guys. They have a great pass-rush, a solid secondary and a world-class leader in Ray Lewis.

No. 1—San Francisco 49ers

The 49ers had to take on the high-powered Saints offense and managed to create enough opportunities for their team to win.

Drew Brees challenged the team 63 times via the air, and the team only surrendered 435 yards on 40 completions.

They did not allow them to run the ball effectively whatsoever, and the four Saints running backs combined for just 37 yards on 14 attempts.

The 49ers also created five turnovers and were without a doubt the main factor in why they are advancing.