Super Bowl XLIX: The most likely unsung heroes

DE Rob Ninkovich, New England

Rob Ninkovich has been one of the most consistent performers in defensive coordinator Matt Patricia’s defense for the last two seasons.

Ninkovich is not the most impressive physical specimen at 6-3 and 251 pounds, but he is one of the smartest players in the league and he studies so much film that he is regularly in the perfect place to make big plays.

The Patriots want to prevent Wilson from getting to the outside and making big plays while on the run. Much of the responsibility for this falls on Ninkovich, and he will be prepared.

Ninkovich had a remarkable season with 62 tackles, 8.0 sacks, three passes defensed, an interception and a fumble recovered for a touchdown. He gets off blocks quickly and has excellent closing speed to bring down running backs or receivers.

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