Super Bowl Kickoff Time 2012: Underrated Units to Watch for in Indianapolis

As we get set for Super Bowl XLVI between the New England Patriots and New York Giants at 6:30 p.m. EST on Feb. 5, we've all heard about Tom Brady, Eli Manning and the Giants' pass rush.

But there are other factors involved that could help tip the scale when all is said and done.

With apologies to Brady and Manning, here are three underrated units to watch for on NBC's telecast.

3. Giants Offensive Line

I think we can all agree that the Giants don't have an elite offensive line, but they've actually played above expectations, allowing just 28 sacks this season.

Part of that is the fact that Manning can make up for lost time in the pocket, but the Giants still allowed fewer sacks than the Patriots this season.

The role of David Baas cannot be understated. A natural guard, he's stepped up big for the team, moving into the center spot. The Giants did give up six sacks against the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game, but, hey, that was the 49ers at Candlestick Park.

2. Giants Secondary

The Giants have experienced a wealth of injuries in the secondary, but they deserve credit for adjusting.

They collected 20 interceptions in the regular season and the defense as a whole has allowed just 37 points in three playoff games (safety against the Atlanta Falcons doesn't count against the defense).

It's going to be hard to stop Brady, but I think the Giants secondary will perform better than expected.

1. Patriots Pass Rush

Despite all the talk that the Patriots need some pass rushers, they collected a decent 40 sacks during the regular season and have been particularly effective in the postseason, notching eight sacks in two games (a better ratio than the Giants).

This pressure has come from a variety of areas and that means the Patriots are playing well as a unit. It has already surprised a couple teams in the playoffs.