Giants vs. Patriots: Why Tom Brady Doesn't Stand A Chance

Of all things Tom Brady did following the New England Patriots 23-20 win over the Baltimore Ravens, apologizing to team owner Robert Kraft for his performance was not expected to be one of them.

But Brady did just that and told a national television audience that he "sucked" against the Ravens. While he did not have the performance he may have liked against a stellar Ravens defense, Brady will be going up against another tough defense in the New York Giants—one that has gotten better as the team has rolled through the playoffs.

Can Brady overcome a game where he looked out of sync with two interceptions to play at the high level he has played at most of this season? While the Patriots offense has been one of the most prolific of the modern era, the defense has not been its equal and the team comes to Indianapolis to face the Giants defense that will be playing on a fast track in doors.

The 49ers may have not been the Patriots last week, but Giants defensive coordinator devised a game plan that kept the San Francisco main threats (Frank Gore, Alex Smith and Michael Crabtree) in check for most of the game.

Brady seemed rattled by the style of defense former Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Chuck Pagan had drawn up for the contest (isn't it ironic that Pagan will now be coaching in Indianapolis a week after facing Brady and the Patriots who are in Indianapolis this week?). Can the Giants use that same blue print or have one similar and rattle the All-Pro passer?

That is a question Giants defensive coordinator Perry Fewell will have to answer.

Right now, the Giants are giving up a total of 321 yards in total offense per game in the playoffs. That and only 200 yards per game through the air. That is after facing Matt Ryan of the Falcons, Aaron Rodgers of the Packers and then Alex Smith of the 49ers.  Pretty impressive numbers against some good offensive machines (maybe not Smith, but he got his team to the NFC Title game).

Brady provides the same kind of firepower as a Green Bay or a New Orleans or an Atlanta. The Giants haven't wavered with Jason Pierre-Paul, Justin Tuck and Osi Umenyiora continually blitzing and getting to the backfield, it could be a long day for the Patriots' leader.