Taking a 30-7 halftime lead over the New York Giants on Monday Night Football, the New England Patriots were able to take their foot off the gas a bit in the second half. This, in turn, allowed for the team’s depth players to see some increased opportunities particularly on the defensive side of the ball.

One of the beneficiaries was Elijah Ponder.

Serving as the Patriots’ third outside linebacker behind Harold Landry and K’Lavon Chaisson against the Giants, the undrafted free agent out of Cal Poly played a career-high 29 defensive snaps for a playing time share of 53%. He registered two tackles as well as his third sack of the season. In addition, Ponder also was on the field for 16 special teams snaps (62%) and recovered a fumble in the second quarter.

After entering the season as lit

See Full Page