Mayo told reporters he was going to start Antonio Gibson, then didn't

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.

FOXBORO — Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo said prior to Saturday’s game that running back Antonio Gibson would start over Rhamondre Stevenson during an interview with analyst Scott Zolak on 98.5 The Sports Hub. So, it was a surprise to see Stevenson out with the starters on the Patriots’ first offensive snap.

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.

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

The New England Patriots have new internal tensions after the 40-7 debacle against the Los Angeles Chargers. Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo delivered a stunning reversal involving Rhamondre Stevenson.