There weren't too many players who were able to be consistent in the passing game for New England on Sunday night, but there ended up being one player who came up big when it counted.
 Edelman ended up making the play of the night against the Chargers. (USA TODAY Images) |
Patriots receiver Julian Edelman ended up being the one player who was able to make some key plays in key situations, including a huge play in the fourth quarter that dealt San Diego a knockout blow and ultimately proved to be a back-breaking play that put the game out of reach for the Chargers and propelled New England to a 23-14 win.
Just after taking a 16-14 lead in the fourth quarter, New England's defense was able to force a three-and-out by the Chargers and after the punt the Patriots started the drive at their own 31-yard line.
On their first play from scrimmage Tom Brady found Edelman over the middle for the completion for 15 yards, and the veteran receiver was able to break away from two defenders and took off running 54 more yards and was off and running for the end zone. His 69-yard touchdown reception sent the majority of Patriots fans who invaded the Chargers' stadium into a frenzy, and silenced what little home-field fans were there hoping to see San Diego come away with the victory.
Edelman finished with 141-yards receiving on the night, his first 100-yard performance of the season and the fifth of his career. His 69-yard touchdown was third longest pass play from scrimmage going back to 2012, and he's approaching the 1000-yard mark as he now has 85 catches for 884 yards along with three touchdowns on the season.
The veteran receiver credited the guys around him for helping set up that incredible catch and run.
"Tom (Brady) put us in a play," Edelman told CSNNE.com. "The offensive line held up the play and Tommy put a good ball up there and I did my job to get open, try to catch the ball and do something with it and we were able to make a play.''
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