Patriots vs. Steelers Inactives: Thompkins, Talib Scratched

The New England Patriots have announced their inactives for their week nine match-up against the Pittsburgh Steelers:

Chris Barker, OL

Jake Bequette, DL

Josh Boyce, WR

Kenbrell Thompkins, WR

Leon Washington, RB

Aqib Talib, CB

Steve Beauharnais, LB

The big surprise on this list is the inclusion of Kenbrell Thompkins.  Thompkins wasn't included on the Patriots injury report, so unless he suffered something during pre-game warm ups, this appears to be a healthy scratch.  He was passed by Austin Collie on the depth chart - who has now had time to learn the offense.

The other big thing to note here is that cornerback Aqib Talib is out yet again.  This was expected however, as Talib could certainly use the bye week to get some extra rest so that he doesn't re-injure anything in the second half of the season.  Fortunately for the Patriots, they have Kyle Arrington playing (who was questionable).

Defensive tackle Isaac Sopoaga is set to make his Patriots debut today, as he is active.