The biggest story heading toward Super Bowl XLIV is and shall continue to be the health of Colts defensive end Dwight Freeney, who has an ankle injury and is questionable to be in the game Sunday against the New Orleans Saints.

This may not be a popular opinion, but I think the importance of Freeney in this game is a touch overblown.

Yes, he is the best defensive end in the NFL, but there are other positions that the loss of a starter would be more detrimental to the Colts. Why? Because the Colts have defensive end Robert Mathis, also one of the best in the business, and the serviceable Raheem Brock.

If Freeney doesn't play, the Saints might think they've struck gold and leave Mathis in one-on-one protection. That would be a mistake. With his speed, he could pressure quarterback Drew Brees plenty and therefore should be double-teamed.

It just seems to me, the Colts would be in bigger trouble were they to lose any of the following players: Quarterback Peyton Manning, receiver Reggie Wayne, center Jeff Saturday, linebacker Gary Brackett, cornerback Kelvin Hayden, safety Antoine Bethea or running back Joseph Addai, since none of those players have a terrific backup to take their place.

The Colts have plenty of depth on the defensive line, though.

Hey, it's just something to think about.