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Inactive analysis

Analysis from the Patriots’ inactive players and what it could mean for others on the roster:

* With safeties Rodney Harrison and Rashad Baker out -- and Guss Scott activated off the practice squad -- look for James Sanders and Artrell Hawkins to start their fifth straight game together at safety. Scott adds depth along with rookie Willie Andrews, with both players expected to contribute on special teams.

* With running back Laurence Maroney out, the Patriots have Corey Dillon, Kevin Faulk and Heath Evans at running back. Dillon took 24 snaps last week and Faulk 21, and it’s likely a similar split will take place today.

* With linebacker Eric Alexander out, the Patriots are without a core special teams player and backup at both the inside and outside spots. Rookies Corey Mays (inside) and Pierre Woods (outside) will likely be called upon to fill that gap.

* With offensive tackle Ryan O’Callaghan out, the Patriots have starting tackles Matt Light (left) and Nick Kaczur (right) active, with Wesley Britt as the third option.

* With nose tackle Vince Wilfork out, the Patriots must decide whether to stick with their 3-4 or go with a 4-3. If the 3-4 is the choice, second-year player Mike Wright would project as the starter at nose tackle. If the 4-3 is the choice, it would seemingly be Ty Warren and Jarvis Green as the starting ends, with Richard Seymour and Mike Wright inside. The team has the following linemen active: Richard Seymour, Ty Warren, Mike Wright, Jarvis Green, Marquise Hill and Le Kevin Smith. This is the third game of the season that Smith has been active.

* With tight end Benjamin Watson out, the Patriots are without a starter in their two-tight end set. Look for Daniel Graham and David Thomas to pair up in two tight end sets, with Heath Evans also an option.

JACKSON IN: Rookie receiver Chad Jackson, who had missed the last two games with a groin injury, is active today. The Patriots have five receivers dressed -- Reche Caldwell, Troy Brown, Jabar Gaffney, Kelvin Kight and Jackson.