Coming from a powerhouse collegiate program such as the University of Alabama, New England Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower has a lot of ex-teammates that are currently on the opposing sideline come Sunday.
Indianapolis Colts running back Trent Richardson is one such former roster mate.
"Looking forward to going up against Trent," Hightower said, via Lee Schechter of ESPN Boston. "It’s been a couple of years since we got to go toe-to-toe. I’m looking forward to it."
With the big-name weapons that comprise the Colts' offense, Richardson has flown under the radar in the team's two-back system. Despite receiving 25 more touches than fellow back Ahmad Bradshaw, the back has ran for 30 fewer yards, though the two are averaging nearly identical per-game averages.
Bradshaw has been more effective in the passing game as well, gaining 100 more yards and tallying six touchdowns.
But regardless of who's hot in the Indy backfield, defensive captain Vince Wilfork knows that if quarterback Andrew Luck is on his game, everyone will be involved in the action.
"When they can get that running game involved and get Luck to get the ball out to his receivers and tight ends," he said, "they’re a tough team to stop."