Super Bowl 2012: Chad Ochocinco and Players with Potential to Be Unsung Heroes

Just like any football game, the Super Bowl can easily be won or lost in a matter of seconds, and oftentimes the plays made by lesser known players can have a huge impact.

As we saw the last time the New England Patriots and New York Giants played in the Super Bowl, any player on the field can make a difference.

For Super Bowl XLVI, both teams have players capable of making big plays. The star players will of course be on their A-game, but those athletes who haven't contributed much all season long now have the chance to shine bright. 

With that said, here a few players with potential to be unsung heroes in Super Bowl 46. 

Chad Ochocinco, WR 

The Patriots acquired the outspoken wide receiver before the season, and some expected big things from him. After struggling to learn the system, Ochocinco hasn't amounted to anything all season long, but that could easily change this Sunday. 

Ochocinco has a had time with New England's hurry-up offense, as it is extremely complex. However, he's going to be on the field a few times, and everyone knows he still has the talent to burn opposing defenses. 

This season, Ochocinco had 15 receptions for 276 yards and one touchdown. He doesn't necessarily have to dominate on Sunday, but when Tom Brady throws it his way, Ochocinco has to bring it down. 

People have forgotten about him this year, which makes him dangerous. With Rob Gronkowski's health status in question, the 34-year-old wide receiver will be ready for the big game. Don't be surprised if he blows everyone away for a monster gain here or there. 

Jake Ballard, TE

Eli Manning's primary targets are his two skilled receivers, Victor Cruz and Hakeem Nicks. Mario Manningham also makes huge plays from time-to-time, helping the team in crucial situations during the playoffs. 

However, it's tight end Jake Ballard that has the potential to steal the show at the Super Bowl. If you remember correctly, it was Ballard that caught the game-winning touchdown in the back of the end zone with 15 seconds left in the game the first time these two teams played this season. 

The 6'6", 275-pound tight end is going to get opportunities to make plays, and even though he isn't the best tight end playing in the Super Bowl, his chances of thriving are still very strong. 

Look for Ballard to go unnoticed during the game, only to come up big in the clutch when Manning needs him the most. 

Kenny Phillips, S 

Defensive players don't get much love in the Super Bowl, as it's the offensive players that end up excelling the most. 

Sure, there have been great defensive players in the big game, but typically the offense gets the most love.

However, the Giants defense has been stepping up big-time during the playoffs, and Phillips has the ability to take over the game. 

Look for New York's defensive front to frustrate Brady with consistent pressure. That will cause Brady to force throws, and Phillips will be on the prowl. The ball-hawking safety can be a great game-changer for the Giants, and if he's able to intercept Brady he definitely has the skills to take it to the house.