The Patriots leading tackler missed practice Wednesday, leaving New England thin at linebacker as they prepare to face Lamar Jackson and the NFL's third-ranked rushing offense.

With Spillane out and effectively replaced by backup Jack Gibbens, the Patriots defense struggled to defend Buffalo’s ground game. The unit surrendered 171 rushing yards and two touchdowns on the day, with the Bills averaging 5.0 yards on their 34 non-kneel-down carries.

1. Inside linebacker Robert Spillane was active for the game but did not log a single snap. “We felt like after going through the warm-ups and everything, that was going to be best for him today,” coach Mike Vrabel said. “We need everybody, and certainly Robert. We’ll have to try to get as healthy as we can as quickly as we can.”

Robert Spillane, who ranks 8th among NFL linebackers in run defense, was sorely missed as the Bills ran over New England's defense in the fourth quarter.

Judging by today’s practice attendance, the Patriots defense that gave up five straight touchdowns last weekend could be in rough shape Sunday at Baltimore.

"Hungry" Robert Spillane joins #live and is fired up for this weekend at Gillette! "Hungry. Not satisfied" Can this defense still improve? #nfl #sports #football #fyp How is the foot? Will Spillane be out there Sunday?

The New England Patriots are walking into their Week 15 home matchup against the Buffalo Bills as the underdog. Despite sitting at the top of the league with an

The Patriots' final injury report brought good news before Sunday's massive showdown with the Bills.