AFC Championship Game 2012: 4 Rookies in the Spotlight for Ravens vs. Patriots

Both of these teams have rode some impressive rookie performances to get to where they are today.

However, you never know how these young guys will perform in the biggest game of their young careers, with entire seasons and legacies on the line. 

Here are four rookies who will need to shine in the spotlight for tonight's AFC Championship game. 

Nate Solder

With Sebastian Vollmer's status still uncertain for Sunday, the Colorado product is going to have to step in once again to hold off Terrell Suggs and the Ravens' pass-rush.

He was sensational against the rookie stud Von Miller a week ago, and it reflected in how comfortable Brady was all game long as the Patriots picked apart the Broncos secondary.

Should the Ravens line up Suggs against Solder, however, it will easily be his biggest test of the season. 

Torrey Smith

The Ravens offense has been anything but consistent, but they have been able to generate big plays with their rookie speedster, Torrey Smith. 

If the Ravens plan on keeping up with Patriots, they will need to generate big plays, and Torrey Smith is the best man the Ravens have for the job. 

Jimmy Smith

Jimmy Smith has flashed potential, but has been largely inconsistent this season.

The Ravens will want to avoid a matchup with Smith and Welker, as Brady will take advantage of that mismatch every time.

Should Smith end up on Welker, he is going to have to be on his game, or the Patriots will get the Ravens defense off balance early. 

Stevan Ridley

Ridley may be the most talented runner on the Patriots' roster, but Belichick needs to trust his back not to turn the ball over before he gives him a lot of carries. 

As the season has wore on and as Ridley earns Belichick's trust, he has been getting a larger role in the offense.

He will need to continue to avoid turning the ball over and making mistakes in pass protection to keep the Patriots offense in rhythm against a good defense.