New England Patriots: Chris Hogan due for a Super Bowl explosion

New England Patriots wide receiver Chris Hogan has been quiet so far this postseason, which means he is due for a big game in Super Bowl LII.

A couple of seasons ago, no one knew who Chris Hogan was.  Fast forward to 2018 and the former lacrosse player could be a key to the New England Patriots Super Bowl hopes.

Following a regular season in which he was slowed with a shoulder injury, Hogan was on the brink of emerging as one of Tom Brady’s top targets.  He was on pace for a 1,000-yard season before going down with the should injury in Week 8.  He ended up with 34 receptions for 439 yards and five touchdowns in those nine games.

He was really on pace to a career season.  That’s why he could have a big game on Sunday, especially with the way Philadelphia Eagles cornerbacks Ronald Darby and Jalen Mills play off the receiver.  They do attack the ball, but the cushion they typically give receivers should play right into Chris Hogan’s comfort zone.

Leading up to the big game, Hogan has studied film and will be ready when his name is called.

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"“You’ve got to study the film,” Hogan said, via the Boston Herald.  “Those guys are taught very well, and they’re playing that technique for a reason.  They’re going to do the things they do really well.  You’re going to have to be very precise with your route running.  They’re going to drive on the ball.  You can’t be sloppy on your routes.  You could have a good play, but it’ll be a bad play if you’re sloppy and lazy.  We’re going to have to be on point with everything we do as far as route running, specifically.”"

With much of the focus on limiting Rob Gronkowski, Brandin Cooks and Danny Amendola, Hogan could very well turn into Brady’s to target as the game flows on.  Now feeling 100 percent, Hogan hopes to have the type of performance he did in the AFC Championship game last year against the Pittsburgh Steelers and in Super Bowl LI.

Against Atlanta, Chris Hogan had several key catches in the historic comeback victory.  Through hard work and a belief in himself, don’t be surprised if No. 15 makes a couple of big plays I this game.  It is certainly playing out that way.

"“I worked really hard to get back to this point. Their trust and belief in me that I was able to be part of this football team and help this team win, it means a lot to me,” Hogan said.  “What I’ve done in the short time I’ve been here, two years, I’ve worked really hard and care about this team and the guys in this locker room.  It’s an amazing opportunity.”"

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An opportunity Hogan is looking to take advantage of.  If he does, the New England Patriots will have a very good night offensively.