Impact Players in Super Bowl LIX

In every Super Bowl, a few players step up to make key plays in crucial moments. The game can be defined by the performances of these athletes. While the stars of each team are sure to get their time in the spotlight, there are sure to be unexpected players who make their mark on the game. Here are a few impact players in Super Bowl LIX to look out for:

Zack Baun, Philadelphia Eagles LB

Zack Baun burst onto the scene this year. After an impressive season with 135 tackles and four sacks, Baun is considered one of the best off-ball linebackers in the NFL. He has the ability to move quickly from sideline to sideline in both pass and run defense. Baun will line up across from Patrick Mahomes in Super Bowl LIX. The mental battle between those two players will be as important as any matchup in this game. The Eagles will rely on Baun to make a few game-changing plays to limit the Chiefs’ production.

Mike Caliendo, Kansas City Chiefs G

Mike Caliendo is one of my impact players in Super Bowl LIX primarily because of the man that he may be charged with blocking. Eagles’ defensive tackle Jalen Carter has terrorized opposing offensive lines in the playoffs so far. He is capable of shutting down runs and blowing up passing plays. Carter may move around the defensive line throughout the game, but he is sure to find some reps against Chiefs’ guard Mike Caliendo. If Caliendo can limit the amount of game-breaking plays that Jalen Carter can make, the Chiefs’ offense could move the ball consistently.

Saquon Barkley, Philadelphia Eagles RB

It feels too obvious to call Saquon Barkley an impact player for the Eagles. Barkley is the engine that causes Philadelphia’s offense to run. I included Barkley because the Eagles have become so reliant on the explosiveness that he brings. Barkley breaks off a 40-plus-yard touchdown run in seemingly every game the Eagles play. He leads the NFL this season with 54 carries of at least ten yards. If he doesn’t break off any long runs in this game, the Eagles’ offense could be shut down completely.

Xavier Worthy, Kansas City Chiefs WR

While the Chiefs lack a true star wide receiver, their depth at the position allows them to find space for players like Xavier Worthy. The Chiefs often use Worthy on end-arounds and screen passes in order to get him the ball in space. The rookie had 23 rushing attempts this season for 112 yards and three touchdowns. Worthy is capable of turning any play into a touchdown with his blazing speed. Expect to see a few designed plays to target Worthy on Sunday.

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