On Thursday night, New England Patriots running back Ezekiel Elliott made one of the most important plays of the game, but it’s unlikely to be featured in most highlight reels.
Late in the third quarter of Sunday’s 21-18 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, New England quarterback Bailey Zappe threw an interception near midfield that very easily could have been a pick-six if not for a great play from running back Ezekiel Elliott.
As soon as the ball was intercepted by Steelers linebacker Mykal Walker at the 46-yard line, Elliott immediately turned into a defender and sprinted after Walker, taking a perfect angle and ultimately catching him at the Steelers’ 16-yard line.
INT 💪
📲: Stream on NFL+ https://t.co/T87FSnfvVk pic.twitter.com/wCq1RWGUmK
— Pittsburgh Steelers (@steelers) December 8, 2023
“One of the most important plays of the game,” Patriots offensive coordinator Bill O’Brien said according to Mike Reiss of ESPN. “That was a great hustle play.”
The play turned out to be absolutely crucial for the Patriots. Instead of a touchdown, the Steelers took the ball on the 16-yard line and ultimately failed to score any points on the possession, turning the ball over on downs. And it was all because of Elliott’s hustle.
“He realizes the play’s never over,” O’Brien said. “He plays to the echo of the whistle.”
[ESPN]
