New England Patriots rookie running back Sony Michel had a banner first half in his team's Divisional Round playoff matchup against the Los Angeles Chargers on Sunday afternoon, punching in three rushing touchdowns.

In doing so, Michel became just the fourth Patriots player ever to rush for three or more touchdowns in a playoff game:

Michel had a very impressive rookie campaign, playing in 13 games and rushing for 931 yards and six touchdowns while averaging 4.5 yards per carry.

The 23-year-old, who played his collegiate football at the University of Georgia, was originally selected by the Patriots in the first round (31st pick overall) of the NFL Draft back in the spring.

Michel had a four-year collegiate career, with his best season coming during his senior campaign when he racked up 1,227 yards and six scores while registering 7.9 yards per attempt.

He put together two 1,000-yard seasons at Georgia, also accomplishing the feat during his sophomore year when he finished with 1,136 yards while reaching the end zone eight times and recording 5.2 yards per carry.

The Patriots won 11 games and captured their 10th straight AFC East division title this season, locking down the No. 2 seed in the conference and a first-round bye as a result.

However, in spite of New England's success this year, many felt going into the playoffs that this was the weakest Pats team in quite some time, mainly due to the fact that Tom Brady did not look like himself.

The winner of the Patriots-Chargers game will battle the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game next weekend.