Jerod Mayo Announces Change in Patriots’ Starting Running Back

New England Patriots’ head coach, Jerod Mayo, has declared a shake-up in the team’s running back lineup following Rhamondre Stevenson’s four consecutive game fumbles. In an interview on the “Patriots All-Access” TV show that aired Friday evening, Mayo stated, “Rhamondre won’t be starting… But he will play. And he understands he has to protect the football going forward.”

An Overview of the Situation

Antonio Gibson to Replace Rhamondre Stevenson as Starting Running Back

Antonio Gibson, a seasoned player with five years of experience, is set to replace Stevenson in the upcoming Patriots versus Miami Dolphins game this Sunday. Mayo had hinted at this change during the week, stating, “We can’t preach ‘ball security is job security’ and still have him out there the majority of the time.”

A Look at Rhamondre Stevenson’s Performance

Stevenson, a 6-foot, 227-pound player, has started the first four games of the season, clocking 159 snaps and rushing for 267 yards on 65 carries, including two touchdowns. He also made nine receptions for 34 yards. However, his first two games were marred by fumbles that were, luckily, recovered by the Patriots. In the last two games, though, the fumbles were lost.

Antonio Gibson’s Track Record

Gibson, standing at 6-foot and weighing 228 pounds, has been the primary backup, playing 71 snaps and accumulating 155 yards from 29 carries. Additionally, he has made seven receptions totaling 82 yards.

Stevenson’s Reaction to the Change

Stevenson had anticipated the change, saying, “I’m super tough on myself… It’s very simple: I just have to hold on to the ball and have that mentality to come up with the ball every time. It’s my job to do that and I haven’t been doing it well.”