Super Bowl Predictions 2012: Aaron Hernandez Is Vital for New England Patriots

Even if he plays, there's no way New England Patriots tight end Rob Gronkowski is going to be at full strength in Super Bowl XLVI. 

Two weeks removed from a serious high ankle sprain, there's just no way. 

Remember, in last year's Super Bowl, Pittsburgh Steelers center Maurkice Pouncey was going through a high ankle sprain and wasn't even able to play. 

I think Gronk' will be on the field, but his ankle will almost assuredly hinder his ability to outrun linebackers and safeties down the seam...a significant blow to the Patriots offense. 

His injury won't stop New England from being able to consistently move the ball; Bill Belichick and Tom Brady will just have to tweak their game plan and tailor it to feature more of their other talented pass-catchers. 

Because Aaron Hernandez plays the same position as Gronkowski and lines up in similar spots along the line of scrimmage, he'll be the biggest beneficiary.  

Expect a variety of bubble and inside screens to Hernandez in order to get the shifty tight end the football in space. 

There's not many tight ends in the league who are better making defenders miss in the open field than the former Florida Gators' standout. 

If he can accumulate big chunks of yardage on easy pitch-and-catches with Brady, the Giants will have no answer. 

Hernandez and Welker are the ideal counters to New York's aggressive pass rush, and don't forget about BenJarvus Green-Ellis and Danny Woodhead on draw plays, either. 

Although he can't "box out" safeties like Gronkowski easily does, Hernandez could be utilized on seam routes that Gronkowski typically runs, too. 

He could be targeted as much as Welker, the reception extraordinaire. 

No. 81 has to have one of the biggest games of his life for the Patriots to win if his tight end buddy can't run like he usually does.

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