Patriots coach changes tune on Rhamondre Stevenson’s benching

FOXBOROUGH — Shaky ball security ultimately didn’t cost Rhamondre Stevenson his starting job Saturday.

Although Jerod Mayo said Antonio Gibson would get the start on the 98.5 SportsHub pregame show and the Patriots would “absolutely” see more of him, it was Stevenson in his normal starting role. Stevenson was also the first back up in team periods during pre-game warm-ups. In Buffalo last weekend, the back fumbled for the seventh time and also lost a lateral that was returned for a touchdown.

“I need to hold the ball,” Stevenson said after the 24-21 loss. “I’m very confident right now. I just have to keep the ball. It’s very simple.”

Stevenson’s seven fumbles are the most by a running back since 2020, and he is just the fourth back since 2010 with that many in a single season.

“I think everybody understands how important football is,” Mayo said. “We’re a team that we just can’t turn the ball over. I don’t think any team can afford to turn the ball over. I thought Gibby when he came in there (against Buffalo) did a good job. .. Look, I will say this: all of us in this building stand behind Rhamondre and the things he’s doing. Unfortunately, right now, the ball is just too much on the floor.”

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