NFL Playoff Predictions: Wes Welker Will Re-Emerge in Spotlight in Patriots' Win

It is easy to lose sight of diminutive New England Patriots wide receiver Wes Welker, with mammoth tight end Rob Gronkowski and bulky Aaron Hernandez both producing the way they are.

Welker has been the most reliable wideout in football over the last five years—catching a ridiculous 554 passes over that span. 

However, he's taken a back seat to Gronkowski after his 10-catch, 145-yard, three-touchdown performance against the Denver Broncos last weekend. 

With all eyes on how the Baltimore Ravens will limit the 6'6'', 265-pound pass-catcher, one of the smallest guys on the field will wreak his usual havoc. 

To get the Ravens' defense out of their comfort zone and away from continual substitutions, expect New England to run a great deal of no-huddle offense on Sunday. 

The quick-paced attack always features an array of short throws Welker's way, and there's not anyone better at getting open on double moves within the first five yards of the line of scrimmage. 

Although the Pats are known for methodically moving the football down the field, almost all of their drives feature one or two big plays. 

Those huge gains have recently come from the tight end position. 

Ed Reed and Ray Lewis will be assigned to stopping Gronkowski and Hernandez from racking up major yardage after the catch. Bill Belichick will gladly take short, chain-moving completions to Welker, who will line up in the slot and put in motion for most of the contest. 

Between eight and 10 catches is certainly not out of the equation for the All-Pro receiver—especially with attention paid on different Pats' pass-catchers. 

Don't be surprised if Brady finds him deep on one occasion, too.

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