How does the gang look out for Ponyboy in The Outsiders?I mean how and why do they keep Ponyboy out of danger so much?

The gang is protective of both Ponyboy and Johnny because
they are the two youngest and smallest members. They try to convince them both to never
walk the streets alone; they are often accompanied by Two-Bit and/or Dally. Darry
generally doesn't allow Pony to go out on school nights, and all of the greasers try to
positively reinforce Pony's academic abilities. Pony's greaser friends know he has a
better chance than any of them to complete high school and possibly go to college. Pony
and Johnny try to ride with Two-Bit when they can, but on the night they encounter the
Socs, Two-Bit's car is out of action. When it comes time for the rumble, they try to
talk Pony out of participating, since he is still weak; of course, Pony will not hear of
this.