Giants vs. Patriots: Chad Ochocinco Active for Super Bowl 2012

After being inactive for the AFC Championship game, New England Patriots WR Chad Ochocinco will be suited up and ready to play against the New York Giants in the 2012 Super Bowl. 

Fox Sports' Jay Glazer tweeted that Ochocinco would be active, and by the sounds of his tweet he would not be surprised to see him play a big role in this game. 

Ocho has indeed struggled, but he might also be able to fly under the radar of the Giants' coverage schemes and pop for a big play. 

What Does It Mean

This gives the Patriots another experienced option at receiver, and it will allow them to be more flexible in their offensive sets, as they can use three wide receivers with confidence. 

This will be especially important if Rob Gronkowski is not as effective while he is dealing with his high ankle sprain. 

If Gronk needs to sit out of some plays, New England will be able to go with a one TE, one RB set with Ochocinco and Deion Branch on the outside, and the ever dangerous Wes Welker in the slot. 

What Happens Next

Ocho had just 15 catches for 276 yards this season. However, he did show enough explosion that he is still capable of getting deep. 

The Patriots will be able to set up the Giants for a deep strike to Ocho. He is not going to command much defensive attention. 

This is going to leave him with one-on-one coverage, and the opportunity to hit for a big game-changing play that he takes to the house. 

Ocho catching that pass is another story. But it certainly wouldn't be out of character for Chad to pull out his best performance under the brightest lights.