Texans vs. Patriots: Stevan Ridley inactive

Nov 24, 2013; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Denver Broncos cornerback Chris Harris (25) tackles Patriots running back Stevan Ridley (22) in the first quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports

The New England Patriots have deactivated running back Stevan Ridley for today’s game against the Houston Texans.

Ridley is in the doghouse of the Patriots for his constant fumbling issues this season, and this might be a wake up call for the second-year running back.

With Ridley out for the game, it can only improve the Texans chances to compete, but they still have to deal with Shane Vereen, who is playing well since missing most of the season with a wrist injury.

Even with Ridley out, the Texans still have a very tough game ahead.

Also inactive for the 8-3 Patriots are: inside linebacker Steve Beauharnais, defensive end Jake Bequette, tackle Marcus Cannon, cornerback Alfonzo Dennard, wide receiver Aaron Dobson and tight end Michael Hoomanawanui.

Listed on the Texans’ inactive list are: tackle Andrew Gardner, defensive end Tim Jamison, guard Alex Kupper, linebacker Ricky Sapp, safety Jawanza Starling, guard Cody White and quarterback T.J. Yates.

None of the inactive are that big of a loss for the Texans, but this means Kareem Jackson will be back in the defensive backfield after missing the past two weeks with injured ribs.

Having Jackson back is a good note for the Texans as he’s needed for the team to have better success.