The New England Patriots (2-8) and the New York Giants (3-8) have announced the following player injuries and practice participation in anticipation of their Week 12 matchup on Sunday at MetLife Stadium.
Following a schedule day off for the Thanksgiving holiday, the Patriots enjoyed perfect attendance in their final practice before making their way to the Meadowlands for this weekend’s contest. Overall, the Pats listed seven players as questionable including offensive tackles Trent Brown (ankle) and Riley Reiff (knee,) who began his 21-day window for activation from injured reserve last Wednesday.
Perhaps just as important for the Pats is the availability of New York Giants alpha defender Dexter Lawrence — who is officially listed as ‘doubtful’ for this game with a hamstring injury. Lawrence is New York’s most fearsome presence in their front seven, earning a 92.8 overall grade from Pro Footall Focus. His ability to identify both the snap and the block makes him a formidable force in run defense.
Against the pass, the veteran defensive lineman is just as impressive, having compiled an NFL-leading 53 quarterback pressures. Should he be unable to suit up on Sunday, the interior of New England’s offensive line should have a notable easier time moving the line of scrimmage to facilitate the running game — while making the Pats eventual quarterback choice a bit more comfortable.
