3 unheralded players who could win Super Bowl MVP

The Super Bowl provides a grand stage for the NFL's biggest stars, but its also given lesser-known players a chance to shine. 

Here are three unheralded players who could win Super Bowl MVP: 

Byron Maxwell, CB, Seattle Seahawks

Tom Brady won't hesitate to throw at Seattle Seahawks star cornerback Richard Sherman, but Byron Maxwell will face the majority of targets Sunday. Maxwell will likely be assigned to Julian Edelman or Danny Amendola and may capture game MVP honors if he can make some plays. The cornerback is slated to become a free agent in the offseason and could get paid at a premium with a standout performance Sunday.

LeGarrette Blount, RB, New England Patriots

LeGarrette Blount has emerged as the Patriots' weapon de jour, running for 148 yards and three touchdowns during the AFC Championship game against the Indianapolis Colts. Blount will face a stiff test from the Seahawks' excellent run defense, which excels against power backs by attacking the A and B gaps. However, if New England jumps out to a lead, Blount will be counted on to be an integral part of a clock-eating offense and he could run away with game MVP honors if the Patriots get inside the red zone multiple times. 

Luke Willson, TE, Seattle Seahawks

Luke Willson has become an increasingly important part of the Seahawks' offense throughout the season and could have a huge game against the Patriots. One of New England's lone weaknesses is its inability to cover tight ends and Willson has proved to be a capable safety valve for Russell Wilson. 

New England's terrific cornerback duo of Darrelle Revis and Brandon Browner ought to lock down Seattle's top two wide receivers, Doug Baldwin and Jermaine Kearse, giving Willson an increased platform during the Super Bowl.