Ravens vs. Patriots: Key Injuries That Will Affect AFC Championship Outcome

New England Patriots receiver Wes Welker and Baltimore Ravens safety Ed Reed are two important players whose injuries could affect the outcome of the AFC Championship on Sunday.

Injuries are an important part of every NFL game, and this late in the season, there isn't one player who isn't a little banged-up or sore somewhere.

Let's look at three injuries that could really affect this game.

Patrick Chung, S, Patriots

One of the reasons the Patriots defense looked so much better against the Denver Broncos in the divisional round was because of the healthy return of safety Patrick Chung.

Chung is a brilliant tackler, and he can also cover wide receivers well one-on-one or coming over as safety help.

He is questionable for Sunday's game against the Ravens with a knee injury. If the injury prevents him from playing near his full ability, the Patriots defense will be less talented in the secondary. Chung is a huge part of the defense's hopes of stopping Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco.

Wes Welker, WR, Patriots

Wes Welker is Patriots quarterback Tom Brady's most reliable target, even more so than star tight end Rob Gronkowski.

Welker led the NFL in receptions this season and is the safety blanket for Brady anywhere on the field. The Ravens have to be aware of Welker is on all third- and fourth-down plays because he excels on short-yardage routs with his great quickness.

He is questionable for the AFC title game with a knee injury.

Ed Reed, S, Ravens

Baltimore Ravens star safety Ed Reed is a Hall of Fame player, and he will be hoping to play a big role on defense for his team Sunday as he tries to make his first Super Bowl appearance of his career.

Reed not only tackles well, he can cover wide receivers and plays the "center field" role very well in the secondary, which helps him intercept passes.

He is probable with a knee injury for the AFC title game, and his health is crucial to the Ravens' ability to contain New England's passing