The days leading up to Super Bowl XLVI will be spent by each coaching staff game planning and trying to exploit each other’s weaknesses. Although they will both generate creative plans, the outcome will boil down to execution. Here are the top matchups to watch on Feb. 5. —Ross Jones

When Jacobs gets going, there isn’t a more difficult running back in the NFL to bring down. The 6-foot-4, 260-pound runner will be called upon by Giants offensive coordinator Kevin Gilbride on third-and-short and goal line situations. Gang tackling will be necessary, but it’s important for Mayo to put a hat on him first.

The Patriots’ tight ends have earned a lot of attention this season, but let’s not forget Welker had the most receptions in the league, and it wasn’t even close. Welker is a defensive coordinator’s worst nightmare, having the flexibility to line up anywhere on the field. It will be important for the Giants DBs to spy him especially on third down, where he does most of his damage.

It’s no secret kickers have a massive responsibility in playoff games … just ask the Ravens' Billy Cundiff. Both conference championships were decided by a last-second field goal, and this game could be the same. Gostkowski has a higher field-goal percentage, but Tynes drilled the game-winner against the Niners. Who’ll come up clutch on game day?

The Patriots' defense ranks near the basement of the NFL in most yards allowed, but they have a bend-don’t-break philosophy. When the Pats have their backs against the wall, they prove to be a stagnant bunch. Wilfork caused havoc in the AFC Championship Game, and Baas, who has battled injuries, will be called upon to stop him.

The Patriots' defense must limit the Giants' wide receivers. That’s easier said than done. Victor Cruz, Mario Manningham and Hakeem Nicks have combined for more than 3,000 receiving yards this season, and the Patriots' secondary unit has been exposed on multiple occasions.

The Giants’ front four will try to rattle quarterback Tom Brady, but Jason Pierre-Paul has been a one-man wrecking crew. Pierre-Paul, who racked up 16.5 sacks in the regular season, has shown freakish ability to get around the corner and bull-rush left tackles. Light has a tall task protecting Brady’s blindside, but he’s a veteran and should be competitive against the second-year player.

Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O'Brien has been creative positioning Hernandez in the backfield, on the line and out wide as a receiver. Although Hernandez won’t be solely Boley’s responsibility, there’s a good chance he will be lined up across from him a majority of the game.

Gronkowski has been the most important playmaker for the Patriots' offense this season. He led the NFL in touchdown receptions (17) and presents problems for all defenses. Rolle’s primary task on game day should be to limit the All-Pro’s looks.