This. If he is in uniform, the Pats have to account for him on every play, so it isn't just about carries. IMO the biggest impact he will have will be blitz pickup.
I'm not saying that i think they should play injured, I'm just stating a reason why people are so eager to get them out on the field this weekend. There is a legitimate feeling of desperation out there.
Chan said after todays practice that barring setbacks, Fred will be playing.
They commonly do this when they are trying to determine the outcome of a close play. The first priority is the clock. Besides, I wouldn't expect that particular official, to make the call, because he was behind the play.
He never signaled touchback. He signaled a stoppage in the clock. You see the same thing when someone runs out of bounds. The signal for a touchback is holding one arm straight out to your side and waving it up and down like an amputee duck.
Just days before this TWC and NFLN reach a deal. TWC is the primary provider in this area. The Buffalo area. I realize that this game isn't all that relevant, but you should really be aware of your audience. This is the first experience many in that viewing area have of NFLN gameday coverage, and they have to hear this.