Each of the final four teams remaining in the NFL playoffs has “X-factors” — players who could make a significant impact on the conference championship games on Sunday.
Sometimes, the “X-factors” are the obvious players, those who’ve been recognized among the game’s best as either Pro Bowl invitees or All-Pro selections, or both.
But then there are others who qualify as “X-factors,” but are more inconspicuous. Although they might fly under the radar, their teams will count on them to make game-changing plays that will make
Below are five “X-factors” (listed alphabetically) — with at least one player each from the Kansas City Chiefs and the Baltimore Ravens in the AFC Championship Game and the Detroit Lions and the San Francisco 49ers in the NFC Championship Game.
Jahmyr Gibbs, Detroit Lions RB
Gibbs (945 yards, 5.2 yards per carry, 10 TDs) had a huge first season that earned him a place on the NFL’s all-rookie team. He and fellow running back David Montgomery (1,015 yards) form a dynamic duo in the Lions’ backfield. Gibbs is a versatile back with game-changing ability who is tough to bring down in the open field. He has the potential to hurt the 49ers’ defense in both the running game and the passing game.
Related: Detroit Lions at San Francisco 49ers: Top 3 storylines for the NFC Championship Game
Jauan Jennings, San Francisco 49ers WR
Jennings is already among the best blocking receivers in the NFL, and has been a valuable receiving option on third down for 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy. Jennings, the team’s No. 3 receiver who caught five passes for 61 yards against Green Bay, might be asked to play a bigger role in the passing game against Detroit if Deebo Samuel is unable to play due to a shoulder injury.
Related: 2024 NFC Championship Game preview: Stats to know, matchups to watch
Chris Jones, Kansas City Chiefs DT
The way to beat the Baltimore Ravens is by getting to quarterback Lamar Jackson and forcing him to make mistakes. In the Ravens’ three losses with Jackson starting, he was sacked 11 times and turned the ball over five times. Jones, among the best in the NFL at his position, must make things uncomfortable for Jackson. With 10.5 sacks, he has the ability to apply quick pressure on Jackson, which could lead to errant passes and turnover opportunities for the Chiefs.
Related: 2024 AFC Championship Game preview: Stats to know, matchups to watch
Isaiah Likely, Baltimore Ravens TE
In the absence of Pro Bowl tight end Mark Andrews, Likely has proven to be more than capable as Andrews’ replacement. He’s scored six touchdowns over the past seven games. Even though Andrews is likely to return from a severe ankle injury this week, look for Jackson to continue to target Likely in the passing game, especially when Jackson is on the move, extending plays with his feet. Likely has already been one of the NFL’s “X-factors,” and that won’t change against the Chiefs’ No. 2 defense.
Related: Kansas City Chiefs at Baltimore Ravens: Top 3 storylines for AFC Championship Game
Rashee Rice, Kansas City Chiefs WR
To attack the Ravens’ No. 1 ranked defense, Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes needs someone other than tight end Travis Kelce as a reliable receiving option. The Ravens will likely clog the middle of the field to take away seams for Kelce, meaning there will be opportunities on the outside. A second-round pick last April, Rice (79 catches, 939 yards, seven TDs) must be the outside threat for Mahomes, as he was in the wild-card win over Miami, with eight catches for 130 yards and one touchdown. Whenever Rice goes over 100 yards receiving — which he’s done three times in his rookie season — the Chiefs win. They need the same from him Sunday.