ROB NINKOVICH IS THE X-FACTOR

The veteran linebacker struggled to set the edge early in the Dec. 18 win over the Broncos in Denver, as he (and the rest of the Patriots run defense) looked bad early against the Broncos. New England settled down and made the adjustments, but the image of Ninkovich whiffing on a pair of big tackles against Tebow and the Broncos was an enduring image. On Saturday he was the Patriots’ best overall defender, doing an excellent job setting the edge and working as a pass rusher, bringing constant pressure from both sides. He had a first-quarter strip sack, and working as an outside linebacker and defensive end throughout the evening he ended with five tackles (four solo), 1.5 sacks (for 9.5 yards), one tackle for loss, two quarterback hits and one forced fumble.