PFF/Palazzolo: Re-Focused Patriots vs. Colts

Good stuff as always from Steve. Glad to see Jerod Mayo starting to grade out well. We really need him to elevate his game to the next level where he’s making game changing plays instead of just tackles.

Here’s a nugget about Ninkopoop:

Since his terrible Week 8 against the Pittsburgh Steelers, linebacker Rob Ninkovich (+2.7) has quietly put together a few straight weeks of strong play, as he has graded at +10.1 in that time. One of the most versatile players on the team, you may see Ninkovich set the edge in the running game, line up over the slot, or rush the passer from a three point stance, all in the same series. On Sunday, he saw 25 plays at linebacker and put his hand down to play defensive end 38 times. Ninkovich looked extremely quick, first in the running game as he flew past TE Anthony Hill for a tackle for loss at the 3:05 mark in the first quarter and later as he beat right tackle Jeff Linkenbach off the edge for a sack with 14:35 to go in the second. It really is amazing to see how Ninkovich will be used in a given week, as sometimes he primarily plays coverage while other games he is used as more of a pass rusher. Since Belichick loves to mix up his game plans every week, Ninkovich’s ability to line up at multiple spots is of utmost importance.