Overview
- Team inactives confirmed Stevenson will play after missing three games with a toe injury.
- New England did not elevate a running back for Week 12, instead calling up defensive tackle Jeremiah Pharms Jr. from the practice squad.
- Henderson produced 330 rushing yards and five touchdowns during Stevenson’s absence, creating uncertainty about the lead role.
- The matchup favors Patriots rushers, as Cincinnati allows the most rushing yards per game in the NFL while New England ranks 20th in rushing offense.
- Before the injury, Stevenson started the first eight games with 83 carries for 279 yards and three rushing touchdowns plus 16 receptions for 169 yards.