MIKE PRESTON'S KEY MATCHUPS

Ravens DT Haloti Ngata vs. Patriots C Dan Koppen

Koppen has quick feet, but he gives a lot of ground in short-yardage situations. Like a lot of centers, he has trouble handling big, strong defensive tackles at the point of attack. The Ravens are aware of Koppen's struggles, and they like this matchup. Ngata is a load and has improved as a pass rusher in recent weeks. He should be able to control the middle of the line. Edge: Ngata:

Ravens C Matt Birk vs. Patriots DT Vince Wilfork

Birk (right) has had a solid season and played one of his better games last week against the Raiders. He was outstanding in short-yardage situations. He has exceptional quickness but also struggles with big tackles at the point of attack. Wilfork can dominate an opponent's running game when he is on. For a big man, he covers a lot of ground quickly. The Ravens will have to give Birk a lot of help with Wilfork. Edge: Wilfork:

Ravens WRs Mark Clayton and Kelley Washington vs. Patriots CBs Jonathan Wilhite and Darius Butler

The Ravens receivers have a tendency to disappear in big games, but they might play a critical role in this one. The Patriots are as bad as the Ravens on the back end of their defense. Teams have picked on the Patriots cornerbacks, especially Butler, at right breaking up a pass to Derrick Mason. If the Ravens can get some isolation, it could pay off big. Edge: Clayton and Washington