NFL Playoff Predictions: 4 Players Who Will Simply Own Month of January

The playoffs are where the league's top players step up and shine. A string of great performances can cement someone in league history. Football is a team game, but individual performances are what impacts the outcome of a matchup.

In the past, stars like Eli Manning and Aaron Rodgers went on a hot streak and led their teams to Super Bowl victories. This year we will see another team ride the hot hand of a superstar and win a Super Bowl title.

Drew Brees- New Orleans Saints

Drew Brees' monster season makes everyone believe that New Orleans is ready for another Super Bowl run. His ability to consistently move the football and put points on the board strikes fear into opposing defenses. Brees displays a calm demeanor and isn't rattled by any situation.

New Orleans last Super Bowl run will provide the team with some confidence. However, the presence of Brees is what will ultimately inspire hope. Opposing teams know that Brees will rack up a ton of yardage and points. This creates pressure on the opposing offense to keep pace.

The Saints are a strong Super Bowl contender because they have a quarterback capable of winning games on his own.

Ray Rice- Baltimore Ravens

Ray Rice received fewer than 15 carries in only three games, all of which were losses. The Baltimore Ravens now realize that Rice needs to get carries in order for them to be successful. His ability to grid out the tough yards allows the Ravens to control the clock.

Baltimore's passing game also needs Rice to be effective. They love to use play-action to freeze the linebackers, but this only works if the other team fears the run. Rice will receive over 25 carries per game in the playoffs. He needs to be the featured offensive player if Baltimore wants to make a legitimate Super Bowl run.

Von Miller- Denver Broncos

Denver's Von Miller more than earned his No. 2 overall draft position. He has been a disruptive force all season long, already compiling 11.5 sacks. Denver's playoff success depends on the play of their defense, which heavily relies on the pressure created by Miller.

Miller's ability to get into the backfield especially helps the aging secondary, who aren't able to cover for extended periods of time. That pressure also helps create turnovers, as it forces the quarterback to make quicker decisions.

I expect Miller to make his presence felt early and often.

Aaron Rodgers- Green Bay Packers

Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers are absolutely on fire. They appear to be unstoppable and heading towards another Super Bowl title. It seems unlikely that anyone will be able to get in the way of this football team.

Rodgers is seeing the football field very well, rarely making a mistake and always finding the proper target. His ability to keep the chains moving tires a defense, puts pressure on the offense and frustrates opposing coaches. Rodgers' opponents must feel like they need to play a mistake-free game to pull off a victory.