Posted by: Chris Vannini on January 31, 2013

Who has the edge in the Super Bowl?

First, let's take a look at which team is better in some key statistics, both in the regular season and the playoffs.

The first thing that sticks out is just how good San Francisco's defense was in the regular season, but Baltimore's defense has been better in the postseason, and that includes games at Denver and New England - two of the league's top offenses. The two teams had similar sack numbers in the regular season, but the Ravens are averaging two per game in the playoffs, while the 49ers only have two sacks total in two games.

Perhaps the biggest key for Baltimore has been turnover margin. The Ravens have eight takeaways (five interceptions, three fumble recoveries), which is twice as many as the 49ers. Quarterback Joe Flacco also hasn't thrown an interception.

On the other hand, San Francisco's offense has been on fire in the postseason, while Baltimore has had the statistical edge in the regular season.

If this game comes down to the end, field goal kicking could be a key. The Ravens have been one of the best in the league in kicking, while the 49ers have had some problems, including missing a kick off the upright in the NFC Championship Game that nearly cost them.

With the game indoors, weather won't be a factor. The 49ers are about a four-point favorite in Vegas, and all signs point to this being another classic Super Bowl.

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Chris Vannini is the lead writer for CoachingSearch.com and has covered Michigan State sports for The State News, The Oakland Press and MLive.com. He writes a weekly column for the Detroit Free Press on behalf of SB Nation. Vannini lives in Big Ten country, so his foot speed is far from SEC caliber, but his pulse on coaches is hard to match. Be sure to follow @CoachingBuzz on twitter and send your feedback to chris@coachingsearch.com