Super Bowl 2012: 4 Rookies Who Will Have Huge Impact on Title Game

Super Bowl XLVI is no doubt an exciting time.

Whether it's the veterans returning or a long time player who's finally getting that opportunity, the chance to play on the NFL's biggest stage is quite the honor.

That said, it's arguably more exciting for a rookie as they've made it to the big game in just one season. And with some rookies having a big impact throughout the postseason, here are two from each team to look for on Super Sunday.

Nate Solder: OT, Patriots

Quarterback Tom Brady's right side tackle, Nate Solder started 13 regular season games and both of the Pats' postseason contests.

Dating back to Week 12 in New England's game at Philadelphia, Solder has started eight straight games after only starting seven through the first 10.

So, it's clear that he's significantly improved and has played at a consistently high level.

Well, that's going to be even more evident in Super Bowl XLVI because the New York Giants are going to attack his side all day long.

Whether it's a straight rush, linebacker or corner off the edge, and/or a combination blitz, Solder must be prepared for the unexpected.

His ability to hold up Brady's fort will be telling, because New York can get pressure from anywhere. And protecting Brady is the Pats best chance to win.

Sterling Moore: CB, Patriots

One of the better rookie stories in 2011, Patriots corner Sterling Moore went undrafted last spring, signed with the Oakland Raiders practice squad and was later released, all in September.

He then went back and forth from the Patriots practice squad and active roster until mid-November when he saw action against the New York Jets.

It was perhaps Moore's two interception performance against the Buffalo Bills in Week 17 that earned him a chance to make an impact in the postseason.

Well, he did just that by knocking the ball out of Baltimore receiver Lee Evans' hands in the end zone to prevent a game-winning touchdown.

In the Super Bowl, Sterling is feeling more confident but Eli Manning and his receiving corps is on another level compared to the Ravens. That being said, expect Moore to get some time over the slot receiver and when blitzing a corner, coach Bill Belichick will likely have him slide out to cover the No. 2 receiver.

Regardless, Moore must expect to get challenged from Manning as he still is one of the Pats' least experienced defensive backs.

Henry Hynoski: FB, Giants

Maybe fullbacks are making a comeback into pro football.

San Francisco has one in Bruce Miller, the Ravens have Vonta Leach and now there's a solid player in New York: Henry Hynoski.

And his importance to the Giants success on offense is an interesting one at that.

For starters, Hynoski has not yet carried the rock one time all season long but including the postseason he has 15 receptions for 103 yards.

So, he's primarily used as a brute force run-blocker for Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs but also in the play-action passing game.

There, Hynoski's ability to sneak into the flats will be key in the Super Bowl as New England will be overly aggressive in blitzing Eli Manning. Provided that the Pats do get pressure, we could see Hynoski earn a lot more receptions and yards than anticipated for a fullback.

Greg Jones: LB, Giants

Middle linebacker Greg Jones' impact will mostly be in passing or short yard situations.

On the year, Jones started five games in the regular season however, has seen only limited playing time since the second half of the season began. In addition, that caused for a slight drop in statistical production.

Nevertheless, Jones' services will be needed as he's a good zone coverage linebacker and a great reader against the run. With the Giants front four seemingly doing work in the trenches, Jones will be the guy New York can count on with Chase Blackburn.

He's quick to the ball, has the ability to force fumbles and is a reliable tackler.

With the Patriots using so many running backs and tight ends, it would be surprising if Jones only saw limited action. Despite being a bit undersized, Jones is a complete linebacker and has recorded seven postseason tackles.

No matter what, he will be needed and called on in the Super Bowl.

John Rozum on Twitter.