11 a.m. ET: The New England Patriots already took the guess work out of their Week 17 matchup with the Miami Dolphins by declaring seven players inactive well before the 11:30 a.m. deadline.

The Patriots ruled out linebackers Dont'a Hightower (knee) and Jonathan Freeny (hand), wide receiver Julian Edelman (foot), defensive end Chandler Jones (toe/abdomen), cornerback Justin Coleman (hand) and offensive tackle Sebastian Vollmer (ankle) on Friday. They declared defensive tackle Sealver Siliga (non-injury related) out Sunday.

The Patriots could rule out more players, but it's not necessary. They also could suit up other injured players, like wide receiver Danny Amendola, free safety Devin McCourty and strong safety Patrick Chung, and either play them sparingly or not at all.

The Dolphins have lost their last three and seem to have given up on the season, but it could still be tough sledding for the Patriots without many of their star players. The Patriots can clinch the No. 1 seed in the AFC playoffs with a win. They would have to hope for a Denver Broncos loss to the San Diego Chargers with a loss.

Stay here for updates and analysis throughout the game.

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