QB
Patriots’ Tom Brady is the perfect fit for the New England system and mind-set, but Colts’ Peyton Manning can take over a game. Edge: Colts
RB
New England’s Antowain Smith is no match for Edgerrin James, who has seven 100-yard rushing games this season. Edge: Colts
OL
Indy left tackle Tarik Glenn anchored the best pass protection in the AFC (19 sacks), and Patriots center Damien Woody was placed on injured reserve. Edge: Colts
WR
Marvin Harrison is a constant threat and Brandon Stokley has three postseason TDs for the Colts, whereas New England relies on Troy Brown.
Edge: Colts
DL
The NFL has no better inside force than Pats nose tackle Ted Washington, though Colts’ Dwight Freeney is a Pro Bowl edge rusher. Edge: Patriots
LB
New England’s Tedy Bruschi, Mike Vrabel and Willie McGinest form heart of 3-4 defense. Edge: Patriots
DB
Pats have two one-on-one cover corners and hard-hitting safety Rodney Harrison. Indy has gotten a lot out of ex-Bear Walt Harris. Edge: Patriots
Special teams
Pats’ Adam Vinatieri has kicked a field goal to win a Super Bowl, and Colts’ Mike Vanderjagt is 40-for-40 this season. Edge: Even
Coaching
New England’s Bill Belichick has won a Super Bowl; Indy’s Tony Dungy is 4-5 in the postseason. Edge: Patriots
— Chicago Tribune
