FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- A look at three players/units whose performance is "up" and three players/units whose performance is "down" in the Patriots' 38-7 victory over the Dolphins in the season finale:
Up
Julian Edelman -- Receiver had not caught a pass since Week 3, but steps up with Deion Branch and Wes Welker inactive to total three receptions for 72 yards, while also delivering a franchise-record 94-yard punt return for a touchdown. The previous franchise record for longest punt return had held since 1976.
Rob Ninkovich -- Outside linebacker/defensive end totals 4 tackles, 2 sacks, 3 tackles for a loss, and recovers a fumble as two of his best games on the season come against the Dolphins.
Brandon Tate -- There aren't many prettier touchdown catches than the diving 42-yard effort Tate delivered in the third quarter on a great pass from quarterback Brian Hoyer.
Down
Darius Butler -- Cornerback is beaten in coverage on a nice play for the Dolphins' lone touchdown and is penalized for defensive pass interference late in the game.
Rich Ohrnberger -- Offensive lineman is penalized for illegal use of hands in the third quarter, which earns him a seat on the bench. On the plus side, he doesn't allow that play to define his night as he responds by playing the final three series.
Danny Woodhead -- Running back has ups and downs, with a 19-yard run on the first drive but then a lost fumble for the Patriots' first turnover since Nov. 7 against the Browns.