The Patriots silenced several doubters with their dominating win over the Chargers last Sunday, but an even more challenging opponent now stands between them and their third straight Super Bowl appearance.
Every team has its stars, but unsung heroes often become key contributors in big moments during Conference Championship games. Danny Amendola proved this with his two fourth-quarter touchdown catches in the Patriots’ comeback win over the Jaguars last season.
Who could be this year’s Amendola? These three players come to mind.
WR Phillip Dorsett
Dorsett became invisible after Josh Gordon was acquired just before week 4, but he appears to be returning to Tom Brady’s circle of trust at the right time. Dorsett closed the regular season with a strong performance against the Jets in week 17 and followed that up with four catches, 41 yards, and a touchdown against the Chargers.
The Chiefs should devote a lot of attention to Julian Edelman and James White in the passing game, potentially opening things up for Dorsett to play a meaningful role.
DE Adrian Clayborn
Clayborn was a disappointment after signing a two-year, $10 million contract in the offseason, but the former first-round pick had two tackles and a sack against the Chargers and will look to build on that against Kansas City.
Getting pressure on Patrick Mahomes will be key if the Patriots hope to disrupt the Chiefs’ high-powered offense, and most of the focus on New England’s defensive front will be on Trey Flowers, which could allow Clayborn to have a big impact.
CB J.C. Jackson
A healthy scratch for the first two games of the season, the undrafted free agent out of Maryland has since emerged as one of the Patriots’ best defensive players and a key cog in a solid secondary.
Jackson’s size and strength—he’s listed at 6’1” and 198 pounds—allow him to play physical and could mean a matchup with the Chiefs’ all-pro tight end Travis Kelce. Jackson has been a pleasant surprise for the Patriots this season, and continued strong play would go a long way as the Patriots attempt to win a second Super Bowl in three years.
