AFC Championship Game 2012: Power Ranking Most Likely Candidates for Game MVP

The players that key the success for the New England Patriots and Baltimore Ravens tell the story of two contrasting styles that are set to battle with a trip to the Super Bowl at stake.

Will these impact players key a victory for their teams, or will this be a game won by lesser known role players? I doubt the latter will happen.

After all, it doesn't seem likely that a Patriots RB, for example, will step up big for the team. Leading rusher BenJarvus Green-Ellis has only 667 yards on the ground this year, while the Ravens defense is ranked second in the NFL against the run.

Likewise, as much as Joe Flacco has to play well, it's hard to see him having a monster game in a Ravens win with the team depending so much on Ray Rice. The Ravens will figure to try and control the ball and the tempo with the running game. Rice averages 100 yards per game in Ravens wins, but only 35 in their losses.

With those observations, here is a list of likely game MVPs, power ranked in order of their potential to guide their team to victory. I'll place it in reverse order to add some drama. 

4. Ray Lewis

The greatest middle linebacker that ever lived is obviously a factor. As the QB of his defense, it is his responsibility to read and react to Tom Brady. Lewis must inspire his front seven and play a huge role in defending the middle of the field against the Patriots passing game, ranked second in the NFL.

His potential impact can come from a big hit, a forced fumble or an interception in the middle of the field. It is likely that his biggest impact will be his intangibles. He doesn't cover as much ground as he used to, but he is still the emotional leader of a nasty defense that is in the top five against the run and pass. 

3. Rob Gronkowski

Gronkowski is the Patriots' most feared offensive weapon. He broke receiving records for tight ends this year with 1327 yards and 17 TDs. He has taken over for Wes Welker as Tom Brady's favorite target. He can kill a team with his route running and ability after the catch.

When you look at how much the Patriots throw the ball (third most in the NFL), Gronk is going to get his numbers. However, the key is getting him into the end zone on multiple occasions. The Patriots are 7-1 when he scores twice. He is such a big part of this prolific offense that stopping him altogether is unrealistic. 

2. Tom Brady

Since the Ravens will likely key on Gronk, Brady will have to spread the ball around to other receivers. Brady's play against this top notch defense is huge. If the Patriots are to win this game, it will be on Brady's capable arm.

He can't just have a good game, he has to be great and he's definitely capable of that. Still, the Patriots haven't faced a defense all year on par with this one. 

1. Ray Rice

Stopping Ray Rice is the key to winning this game for the Patriots. If they can limit the Ravens run game, they can put the game in Joe Flacco's hands. That isn't a good thing for Baltimore as Tom Brady will win that passing duel every time.

The Patriots' defense has been suspect all season. They are last against the pass and only 17th against the run. That doesn't bode well for New England. The Ravens will pound the ball and take calculated shots down the field.

If Rice is effective, the Ravens will control the ball and dominate time of possession. He is my pick to win game MVP, thus the Ravens are my pick to win this game and move on to the Super Bowl.

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