Patriots running back Shane Vereen wasn't eased back into the lineup, as some had speculated. He was targeted a team-high 11 times in the loss at Carolina.
Vereen, in his first action since breaking his wrist Week 1, finished with a team-high eight catches for 65 yards and added a 7-yard carry. But he had two costly drops.
Vereen's best moment came when he split out wide, caught a short pass and broke two tackles for a 17-yard gain. Vereen was regularly used outside as the Pats sought to get him matched up against linebackers.
Vereen will be heavily involved again Week 12 vs. Denver.