Super Bowl Predictions 2012: Aaron Hernandez Will Be X-Factor in Epic Rematch

With Rob Gronkowski nursing a bum ankle, the New England Patriots' Super Bowl hopes rest on the shoulders of their other 22-year-old tight end. Luckily for them, the second half of the Boston TE Party isn't exactly a slouch.

In the regular season, only 14 receivers caught more passes than Aaron Hernandez (79). Among fellow tight ends, he ranked fourth in receiving yards (910), sixth in touchdowns (7) and tied for fifth in receptions. He had six games with at least seven catches and three games with over 100 yards.

In two playoff games this season, he's caught 11 passes for 121 yards and a touchdown. And he's done all of this as Tom Brady's third option.

Hernandez is exceptionally talented and is more than capable of carrying the Patriots to their fourth Super Bowl title in 11 years. With his size and speed, he's a matchup nightmare for every team in the league.

He's also had some prior success against the New York Giants. Remember when he schooled Corey Webster, then dug up the cash and made it rain? Filthy.

Although he's the less-heralded of New England's two-headed tight end monster, Hernandez is just as lethal. The Patriots and their fanbase should have complete confidence in him.

While the New England area has seen plenty of Super Bowl titles, the young Hernandez is hungry for his first. Judging by his pregame tweet, he's ready to go:

Bill Belichick reportedly said this morning that Rob Gronkowski will "definitely" play. How effective he will be, however, remains to be seen. Gronk at 70 or 80 percent is better than most starting tight ends in this league, but his injury still places an added burden on Hernandez. If he steps up, he will be the key to the Patriots' Super Bowl revenge.