As we enter the 2008 NFL playoffs many of the superstars will come to shine and help propel their team towards victory. All too often though, it is the rookie players that can make a significant difference both positive and negative that can change the outcome of the playoffs.

This year their are several key rookie players in the 2008 NFL playoffs that could make a significant contribution to their teams success. Here are the players that can make a huge difference this year in the playoff race.

1) Matt Ryan, QB Atlanta Falcons. The current offensive rookie player of a year. A player that has looked like a veteran of several years, more than a rookie this year. His first year numbers are matched only by quaterbacks of the like of Dan Marino and Peyton Manning. I think the Falcons rely too much on Ryan as their main offensive weapon and you will see him struggle under the magnifying glass of the NFL playoffs. If the Falcons can keep Michael Turner involved in the game, look for Ryan to have a huge game. This QB is a superstar on the rise and will surely have a ton of impact in the future.

2) Joe Flacco, QB Baltimore Ravens. Played second fiddle to Ryan throughout the year as a rookie quaterback, but has a chance to do much more in the playoffs. Flacco is in a perfect situation to succeed in the playoffs - a good running game and a great defense to fall back on. The Ravens will not likely put Flacco in a situation where he has to win the game as the main weapon.

3) Chris Johnson, RB Tennesse Titan. An explosive running back with unbelievable breakaway speed. With the combination of Lendale White and Johnson the Titans scored rushing touchdowns at will throughout the season. Rookie running backs have had a tremendous impact in previous playoff years and I would suspect that it may be the same here. Johnson can catch as well as run, making him a real dual threat out of the backfield.

4) Jonathan Stewart, RB Carolina Panthers. DeAngelo Williams gathered much of the headlines this year scoring 18tds, but Stewart is a big bruising running back that can change the face of a playoff game. His talent alone could account for much of the success of the Panthers this year.

Look for these rookies to make a significant impact in this years playoffs. Watch them closely, because those that have big post seasons will see their rookie card value rise significantly. Look for my next post that will outline some of the defensive rookies and other rookies that could make a difference this year.