Patriots-Colts Key Matchups

Patriots-Colts Key Matchups

Marvin Harrison, WR, Colts vs. Asante Samuel, CB, Patriots

Bob Rosato/SI, Jim Rogash/WireImage.com

Samuel, who tied for the league lead with 10 interceptions this season, will likely take on the task of slowing Harrison most of the evening. Earlier this season, Harrison torched Ellis Hobbs and Chad Scott, but the Pats have tinkered with their backfield since then.

Anthony McFarland, DT, Colts vs. Corey Dillon, RB, Patriots

John Rieger/US PRESSWIRE, Damian Strohmeyer/SI

Dillon might be used more than usual because the Colts were susceptible to the power running game in the regular season. The game could down to whether McFarland & Co. keep playing the lights-out run defense they exhibited in Indy's first two playoff games.

Joseph Addai, RB, Colts vs. Tedy Bruschi, LB, Patriots

Al Tielemans/SI, Robert Beck/SI

Everyone knows Peyton Manning struggles in the playoffs. Life would be a lot easier for the Colts QB if Addai can get the running game going. But Bruschi will do everything he can to stop them.

Reche Caldwell, WR, Patriots vs. Jason David, CB, Colts

Robert Beck/SI, AP

Caldwell has become the Patriots' best deep threat and David may be the weakest link in the Colts' secondary. Expect Tom Brady to look long for Caldwell when he's matched up with David.

Dwight Freeney, DE, Colts vs. Matt Light, LT, Patriots

Damian Strohmeyer/SI, Thomas Croke/WireImage.com

The Colts get a lot of pressure on the quarterback and Freeney is still very dangerous, even though his sack total dipped to 5.5 this season. He had two sacks against the Chiefs in the wild-card round. Light has plenty of playoff experience and won't be intimidated.