The New England Patriots decided to bench starting running back Rhamondre Stevenson prior to the start of Saturday's game against the Los Angeles Chargers-- but didn't.  Head coach Jerod Mayo told pregame shows that Antonio Gibson would start over Stevenson about 20 minutes prior to game time.

Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo pulled the stunner by going back to Rhamondre Stevenson. Did h explain the reason why?

New England Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo explained the decision to start Rhamondre Stevenson vs. Los Angeles Chargers. The New England Patriots are enduring a challenging NFL season, officially eliminated from playoff contention and struggling to produce positive results.

This is not the first time this season that the Patriots have given thought to benching Stevenson because of his ball security issues. After Stevenson fumbled in each of the first four games of the season -- losing two of them -- Antonio Gibson got the start at running back for New England in Week 5 against the Dolphins.

The New England Patriots are playing out another lost season as the team will miss the playoffs for the third straight year. New England entered Week 17 with a 3-12 record. The disappointing campaign has first-year head coach Jerod Mayo on the hot seat.

Jerod Mayo failed to explain the thinking behind a key switch for the New England Patriots vs. the Los Angeles Chargers in Week 17.