The Patriots have wrapped up the AFC East, but they have plenty to play for in Week 17.
A win gives them a first round bye and a shot at home field throughout the AFC playoffs, but a loss could drop them behind the Bengals or Colts into the third seed. It’s not clear what quarterback they’ll be facing when they try to get that victory.
Thad Lewis started in place of E.J. Manuel against the Dolphins on Sunday, but coach Doug Marrone said last week that he was confident Manuel could return for the regular season finale. On Monday, Marrone wouldn’t commit to either quarterback and said that the team would evaluate Manuel’s condition in the coming days.
“It’s a process. We’ll get him out there tomorrow and have a peek at him,” Marrone said, via the team.
Lewis was 15-of-25 for 193 yards and an interception in the defense-driven 19-0 victory over the Dolphins. Manuel is recovering from his third knee injury of the year.
Marrone also said that wide receiver Stevie Johnson may not be available for the game. Johnson missed Sunday’s game after spending the week in California following the death of his mother and Marrone said the funeral is scheduled for December 27.
