The New England Patriots’ defense gave Aaron Rodgers a tough time on Sunday, and linebacker Christian Elliss made one of the game's biggest plays.

In New England’s 20-3 win over the Pittsburgh Steelers, Elliss broke through on a well-timed blitz and sacked Rodgers hard. The play resulted in a fumble and a 36-yard loss. It knocked Pittsburgh out of field goal range and helped the Patriots stay in control.

After the game, Elliss talked to ESPN’s Mike Reiss about the play. He gave credit to the coaching staff for setting him up to make it.

“Great play-call to scheme me free,” Elliss said, according to Reiss.

Elliss was also asked how this hit compared to another big moment in his Patriots career—his hard tackle on New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart last season.

Elliss didn’t hesitate to say which play he liked more. He preferred the hit on Rodgers to last year’s on Jaxson Dart because it knocked the Steelers out of field goal range.

The hit on Dart was one of the most talked-about moments of the Patriots’ 2025 season. Elliss made a big tackle on Dart near the sideline during a game against the Giants.

The play led to a short scuffle between players from both teams. Later, Elliss said he was just trying to make a play since Dart stayed in bounds. The sack on Rodgers came as the Steelers threatened in Patriots territory. It turned what could have been a scoring opportunity into a major loss.

Rodgers had a tough afternoon, ending with 187 passing yards, one interception, four sacks, and two fumbles. The Patriots’ defense kept Pittsburgh to only three points.

For Elliss, the sack on Rodgers was another standout moment. He even said it was more important than his big hit on Dart.