Super Bowl 2013: Biggest Mismatches for Each Team

With Super Bowl XLVII quickly approaching, there are a few big mismatches that could affect the outcome of the "Harbowl."

Colin Kaepernick vs. Baltimore Ravens Defense: Edge, 49ers

This may only be Colin Kaepernick's 10th NFL start, but he has proven himself to be an elite quarterback. Kaepernick is a pro at the pistol offense, and the Ravens defense will have trouble stopping this unfamiliar style of play.

Chris Ault, Kaepernick’s coach at the University of Nevada, was the creator of the pistol offense and no quarterback knows it better than Kaepernick.

It can take a while for defenses to learn how to effectively contain this offense. Plus, the Ravens lost games against both opposing running quarterbacks they played this year—Robert Griffin III and Michael Vick.

Kicking Matchup: Edge, Ravens

As for the kickers, Justin Tucker is more consistent than David Akers.

When looking at statistics of Ravens kicker Justin Tucker and 49ers kicker David Akers, there is no question that Tucker is a better kicker this season.

Tucker has made 30-of-33 field goal attempts this year, while Akers has made only 30-of-44. This may not be the biggest mismatch of the game, but it is something to consider. We all know that kickers can be game-saving heroes one day and negative Twitter trends the next.

Vernon Davis vs. Ravens D: Edge, 49ers

One player who will shine during this year’s game is tight end Vernon Davis.

Alex Espinoza of 49ers.com says that Davis is no stranger to playoff success.

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In last week’s 28-24 win at Atlanta in the NFC Championship, Davis registered his third career 100-yard game in the playoffs, which ties him with Dallas Clark for the second-most by a tight end in NFL history. If he does it again in Super Bowl XLVII against the Baltimore Ravens, he’ll tie Keith Jackson for the postseason tight end record with four games of at least 100 yards.

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Although the Baltimore defense is big, experienced and has Ray Lewis, Vernon Davis will find holes in the Raven’s defense. When it comes to the passing game, Kaepernick and Davis have a chemistry that is bound to put many points on the board for the 49ers.