FOXBORO -- Rhamondre Stevenson was benched to start the Patriots' Week 5 clash with the Miami Dolphins because his fumbling issues over the first four weeks of the season. He wasn't on the bench for very long, and responded in a big way on just his second carry of the afternoon.

Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo said before Week 5 he'd be benching Rhamondre Stevenson due to fumbling issues, but the veteran running back still produced vs. the Dolphins. Stevenson had 12 carries for 89 yards and a touchdown vs. Miami, continuing to play a significant role in New England's offense.

Rhamondre Stevenson couldn’t explain it. But after four straight games with a fumble, it didn’t matter. Related Articles New England Patriots | Patriots allow Dolphins to come back in ugly 15-10 Week 5 loss New England Patriots | Patriots-Dolphins inactives: Top safeties out,