Divisional Playoffs: Vollmer Highlights Patriots Inactives

by Greg Knopping on Jan 14, 2012 6:55 PM EST in Patriots Game Previews

FOXBORO, MA - SEPTEMBER 1: Logan Mankins #70 of the New England Patriots completes a drill before a game with the New York Giants at Gillette Stadium on September 1, 2011 in Foxboro, Massachusetts. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

The Patriots have announced their inactives for their 8:00 PM ET Divisional Playoff match-up against the Denver Broncos:

RB Shane Vereen

DT Ron Brace

G Donald Thomas

T Sebastian Vollmer

QB Ryan Mallett

CB Nate Jones

LB Gary Guyton

Thoughts:

Sebastian Vollmer was a game time decision, and the Patriots decided he wasn't ready to go. He's only played in six games this year, and the Patriots will continue to start Nate Solder at right tackle.
The bigger news on the offensive line is that Logan Mankins will start. He suffered a sprained MCL and missed the season finale, but returns for the playoffs tonight and will be plugged back into his usual LG spot.
Nate Jones, Donald Thomas, Gary Guyton, and Ron Brace are healthy scratches. Jones' inactive status highlights the progress of Sterling Moore, as he will likely be the team's primary nickel back today (Edelman should also see some time).
Nice to see Kevin Faulk active for the playoffs. Wonder if he might have a big role tonight for the Patriots.
Another notable player active for the Patriots: Pat Chung. He banged up his knee late in the week and was questionable. He suits up for the Patriots for the second straight week.

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Vollmer hurts

But having Mankins is wonderful news. I don’t think they would have played him if he wasn’t the best option.

by Csigs on Jan 14, 2012 6:58 PM EST reply actions

Totally agree- sentimentality is not the strong suite of this team.

"Valdez can pitch, Lee can hit... and pigs can fly."

by dannijd on Jan 14, 2012 7:41 PM EST up reply actions

I'm officially worried about his long-term health.

I kind of called this back when he hurt his back early. When a big dude in a leverage-intensive position Fs up his back, it’s a long road and as a corollary, coming back too soon opens you up to other injuries. You unconsciously compensate or “guard” the injured back and it throws everything else out of balance.

"Every time I call it a game, you call it a business. Every time I call it a business, you call it a game."

"The longer they play, the more they lose. In the end, we get it all."

by JohnHannahRules on Jan 14, 2012 7:07 PM EST reply actions