This is kind of a hot-button issue right now, with the general consensus (including me) being that Ridley is underused. However, I do think that there’s a method to this madness of Ridley not being the every-down back.
It’s clear Ridley is the best running back the Pats have, and when Shane Vereen returns, they’ll have a potent 1-2 punch. Ridley has the most carries of any running back (92) despite missing a game, so it’s not like he’s totally being relegated to a secondary role.
Here’s what else is playing into it, in my view…
The Pats use a passing down back and right now that is Brandon Bolden. Ridley, for whatever reason, is not viewed as a passing-down back. And that won’t change once Vereen returns. So in pass-heavy games you’re getting less Ridley.
The Patriots are not a “featured back” team. They like a rotation and specific guys for specific roles.
There’s also the long-term outlook where you want Ridley fresh for the playoff run. So I think there’s an element of managing his snaps for that reason as well.
And really, hasn’t Ridley been a great spark being used as he is? There’s no question the last few games he’s come into the game and ignited the Pats offense.
I also think his early season ball security is still a concern and part of it is that he’s being managed to build up both his confidence and the team’s confidence in him.
So there are a number of things in motion with this situation. It’s undeniable that Ridley has a unique burst and has been arguably the best weapon on the Pats’ roster. LeGarrette Blount seems to feed off of Ridley’s energy, running better after Ridley loosens up the defense rather than before when Blount or Bolden start off the game.
We’ll see how it develops, but I’d anticipate things to continue like this for a few more games. Once Vereen returns, the running back roles will be a little clearer, but I still think that Ridley will be a big part of the offense down the stretch.