Super Bowl XLIX Predictions

X-Factor/Sleeper – Jesse

January 18, 2015; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks quarterback

(3) runs the ball against the Green Bay Packers during the second half in the NFC Championship game at CenturyLink Field. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Russell Wilson – X-Factor, Luke Wilson – Sleeper

This may sound cliche, but the quarterback is indeed the X-Factor. Russell Wilson had by far his worst game of his career – professionally and collegiate – until when it mattered most. While the Packers made some questionable decisions late (who slides after an interception with five minutes left?) Russell Wilson started to drop dimes all over the field, including the game-winner.

He’ll be facing a tough pass rush from Vince Wilfork, Rob Ninkovich and Chandler Jones and will likely have to rely heavily on his ability to scramble and extend plays. Heck, he may even have close to 100 rushing yards on Sunday.

And that will open things up for his tight end, Luke Wilson, who I was unaware went from acting to football.

Luke Wilson only had 362 yards and three touchdowns this season, but had a breakout performance in the Divisional Round against the Panthers with 68 yards and a touchdown.

Aside from Dont’a Hightower, the Patriots don’t have any true threats at the linebacker position. He may see time against Patrick Chung, but Luke Wilson’s 6’5″, 252 lbs frame towers over Chung, who is listed as 5’11”, 210 lbs.

One of these Wilson’s is far more important than the other to Seattle, but both will have big games on Sunday.