Unheralded players who could make a big impact in the Super Bowl

"Much of the attention during Super Bowl week is usually on the star players like Drake Maye and Jaxon Smith-Njigba for good reason. But if history is any indication, some lesser-known players could have a big impact on the Super Bowl on Sunday between the New England Patriots and Seattle Seahawks. Milton Williams helped key a dominant defensive effort for the Philadelphia Eagles in a win last year over Kansas City, leading to his big free agent contract this offseason with New England."

"The previous two years Kansas City relied on lesser-known receivers to win back-to-back titles. Mecole Hardman caught the winning TD pass for Kansas City in overtime to beat San Francisco in Super Bowl 58, while Kadarius Toney had a TD catch and long punt return that proved crucial in beating the Eagles the previous year."

"That's been the case over the history of the Super Bowl, whether it was unheralded MVPs like Larry Brown, Dexter Jackson or Malcolm Smith; Jack Squirek's pick-6 for the Raiders in Super Bowl 18 against Washington; Timmy Smith's 204 yards rushing in his first career start for Washington against Denver in Super Bowl 22; or David Tyree's helmet catch that helped the Giants spoil New England's bid for a perfect season in Super Bowl 42."

"Hollins is on his fifth team in as many years but has been an unheralded contributor at all of his stops despite some quirky habits like going barefoot as often as possible and eating without utensils. Hollins came into the league as a valuable special teams player but also provided 46 catches for 550 yards in the regular season for his second-most productive season. Hollins had five receptions on deep passes and converted eight of his nine catches on third or four"

Much of the attention during Super Bowl week focuses on star players such as Drake Maye and Jaxon Smith-Njigba, but lesser-known players often alter outcomes. Milton Williams parlayed a key defensive performance for the Eagles into a free agent contract with New England. Kansas City's recent titles featured unheralded contributors like Mecole Hardman and Kadarius Toney. Historical upsets and decisive plays have come from players such as Larry Brown, Dexter Jackson, Malcolm Smith, Jack Squirek, Timmy Smith and David Tyree. New England wide receiver Mack Hollins brings special teams value, 46 catches for 550 yards this season, and quirky personal habits.

Read at Boston.com