"Laurence Maroney fumbled on the goal line on the opening drive in Sunday's AFC East-clinching win for the Patriots against the Jacksonville Jaguars.

While it didn't have any impact on the game, that blunder did have consequences for the running back. Coach Bill Belichick didn't allow Maroney to set foot on the playing field the remainder of the game.

Might that have been the final straw with Maroney, who has now fumbled four times this season, twice on the goal line? Did that gaffe rub out all the positive strides the running back has made this season? Can he be trusted as the lead back for the playoffs?

Given the history with Maroney, and the frustration he continues to inspire, the knee-jerk response would be to leave him on the bench the rest of the way. Just have Sammy Morris and Fred Taylor carry the load, with Kevin Faulk spelling them on occasion."