The New England Patriots are ready for a big matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this weekend. The NFC South-leading Bucs have been among the league’s best teams this year, making them a good test to see how close the Patriots are to being a legitimate postseason threat.

If head coach Mike Vrabel wants to win this weekend, the Patriots will need some of the younger players on offense to step up with both running back Rhamondre Stevenson and wideout Kayshon Boutte out. Stevenson missed last week with the same toe injury that is sidelining him this week, while Boutte hurt his hamstring in the Falcons game.

After missing Week 9, it should be concerning that Stevenson is still out with a toe injury. Hopefully, it’s nothing serious and Stevenson can return to the lineup soon. Unfortunately, the veteran RB’s injury could bleed into the Patriots’ next game as well.

Rhamondre Stevenson in Danger of Missing Week 11 TNF vs. Jets

With Stevenson missing another week of practice, his availability for next week could be in jeopardy with the Patriots’ schedule. In Week 11, the Patriots will play on Thursday night, taking on their AFC East rival, the New York Jets. Since the Patriots will be on a short week and Stevenson hasn’t been practicing recently, it’s fair to wonder if Stevenson will miss his third straight game.

You can also consider the fact that the Patriots ruled him out on Friday, indicating the injury isn’t something he can play through, which would make him a game-time decision.

Another approach could be that, with the short week, the Patriots could use that time as extra recovery for Stevenson. New York has had a rough season, holding a 1-7 record ahead of Week 10. The Jets also dumped several key players in the lead-up to the trade deadline, signaling a rebuild as they waved the white flag.

For the Patriots to win that game, they shouldn’t need Stevenson. Giving him an extra week of rest would make sense, so he’s healthy for more important games down the stretch.

In Stevenson’s place, TreVeyon Henderson and Terrell Jennings should see most of the snaps in the backfield. Henderson didn’t exactly dazzle when he handled lead RB duties last week; however, Jennings has made it clear that he’s willing to capitalize on any opportunity he receives.

Stevenson hasn’t been perfect this season, but it’s clear that the Patriots’ backfield is at its best when he’s at full strength. Hopefully, he heals up quickly in the coming weeks, potentially returning in time for another favorable matchup against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 12.