Super Bowl 2012: Rob Gronkowski Will Be the X-Factor in Epic Super Bowl Rematch

The New England Patriots' hopes for Super Bowl vengeance rest on the shoulders of ailing tight end Rob Gronkowski.

There are plenty of new faces in the Super Bowl rematch between the New York Giants and the Patriots, but Gronkowski's presence looms largest. This season, the 22-year-old established himself as not only the best tight end in the league, but perhaps the most dangerous weapon in all of football.

It may sound cliche, but the numbers don't lie.

In the regular season, Gronk led the NFL with 17 touchdown catches, while finishing fifth in receptions (90) and sixth in yards (1,327). He also ran for one score, giving him the most total touchdowns, most touchdown catches and most receiving yards all by a tight end in any single season.

During his historical year, he scored multiple touchdowns on seven occasions and had five games with at least 100 receiving yards. In the playoffs, he somehow raised the bar even more. 

Gronk dominated the Denver Broncos in the divisional round, racking up 145 yards and three touchdowns on ten catches.

The Ravens' stingy D fared better in the AFC Championship Game, but he was still effective—he was the Patriots leading receiver, catching five passes for 87 yards.

Unfortunately, he's operating on a bum wheel thanks to that game.

After a 23-yard catch, Gronk's ankle was almost shredded by Bernard "The Patriot Killer" Pollard. It was Pollard who ended the seasons of Tom Brady in 2008 and Wes Welker in 2010.

Luckily, Gronkowski only suffered a high ankle sprain. He's listed as questionable for Super Bowl Sunday, but I would be shocked if he missed the biggest game of his life.

Papa Gronk reinforced that belief a few days ago, telling a Buffalo television station that his son will play.

That's good news for the Patriots, who will need Gronkowski at or near 100 percent to beat the Giants.

The Patriots have another top-notch tight end in Aaron Hernandez, but Gronkowski's value is immeasurable. He's a monster in the redzone and a matchup nightmare for every defense he faces.

If his ankle slows him considerably, New England will once again fall to Eli Manning in the Giants.

However, if Gronkowski is healthy and effective, the Patriots will win their fourth Super Bowl in 11 years.