The New England Patriots have announced their inactives for their week 12 Sunday Night Football match-up against the Denver Broncos, and it includes a couple of big surprises:
Steve Gregory, S
Michael Hoomanawanui, TE
Jake Bequette, DE
Steve Beauharnais, LB
Marcus Forston, DT
Josh Boyce, WR
Chris Barker, OL
So, what do we make of this?
First of all, perhaps biggest take aways from all of this are two players who aren't on this list: cornerback Alfonzo Dennard and linebacker Brandon Spikes. Dennard underwent a procedure on his meniscus just last weekend, and early reports in the week indicated that he would miss at least the Denver game. Having him active, along with Aqib Talib and Kyle Arrington, gives the Patriots their trio of top cornerbacks against the league's best passing attack. That is huge, but their health will be a situation to watch as the game wears on.
Also, having Spikes means big things for the run defense. He was downgraded to questionable this morning, and his status was in doubt.
The biggest surprise of players on this list is Steve Gregory. He broke his thumb against the Steelers in week nine, but returned to practice this week wearing a cast and most thought he would play. I guess he wasn't cleared.
Josh Boyce is also inactive again after seeing time as a kick returner last week.
The Broncos also announced their inactives, and will be without both Julius Thomas and Champ Bailey.