Underrated Dennis Pitta could be key Sunday

Our take: Dennis Pitta is anything but unknown in the state of Utah. During his days as a BYU tight end, the former Cougar set the school record for career receptions and routinely made key grabs. Now in the NFL, the third-year pro is beginning to make a name for himself on a national scale. In a recent article, SportsIllustrated.com tabbed Pitta as someone who could make a big impact in Sunday's Super Bowl.

Is Dennis Pitta the most underrated player taking part in Super Bowl XLVII?

The Baltimore tight end certainly has to be in the conversation. Pitta has 10 catches and a pair of touchdowns this postseason, after making 61 grabs and scoring seven times during the regular season. At a position dominated by the likes of Rob Gronkowski, Tony Gonzalez and Jimmy Graham, though, Pittas consistently improving play has flown under the radar.

But the 49ers have taken notice.

Pitta is starting to emerge as a top guy for them, 49ers defensive back Donte Whitner said. Hes getting behind the defense, hes scoring in the red zone, and hes becoming just a reliable, all-around guy for them developing into a top tight end in the National Football League.

Read more about Dennis Pitta on SI.com.