The Super Bowl line is up and while the story of the day will be the offenses, the defense that plays best will truly be the key. Here is a breakdown of the defensive matchups:

Defensive Line:

While the Indianapolis Colts would normally have the edge, there is an opening for the New Orleans Saints to match up a little more evenly if Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney is unable to play.

There is some concern about a sprained left ankle, which could limit him. If he’s healthy, the Colts have the edge. For now, that’s an unknown so this is an even matchup.

Advantage: Even

Linebacking Corps:

The linebacking matchup is an even one and another one that is tough to pick.

The Saints have the best player of the bunch with Pro Bowler Jonathan Vilma, and he’s flanked by a couple of steady players in Scott Fujita and Scott Shanle.

Meanwhile, the Colts have more balance and Clint Session and Gary Brackett are very good players overall and Philip Wheeler is also up-and-coming.

This is close, but we’ll give the edge to the Saints.

Advantage: Saints

Secondary:

While the first two areas are tight, the secondary is a much different story. The Saints have two Pro Bowl safeties in Darren Sharper and Roman Harper while the Colts have just one. Also, the Saints have far more experience at cornerback as the Colts starters Jacob Lacey and Jerrod Powers are rookies.

Advantage: Saints