Ochocinco's stint in New England can kindly be described as uneventful. (Getty Images)

Posted by Ryan Wilson

Any other year and this might affect the offensive game plan but in 2011, with the Patriots, it really isn't more than a footnote to an interesting Week 12 matchup between New England and Philadelphia: wide receiver Chad Ochocinco won't play against the Eagles because of a hamstring injury, the team announced Saturday night. 

Ochocinco, acquired from the Bengals via a trade prior to training camp, has been active for the Patriots' previous 10 games, although you wouldn't know it to look at the stat sheet. He has just 11 receptions for 201 yards on the year, and is still looking for his first touchdown. He has yet to catch more than two passes in a game with the Patriots, and on three occasions he even didn't register a reception.

It's been a tough season for Ochocinco, who was supposed to give New England a deep threat. Head coach Bill Belichick and quarterback Tom Brady have both defended the wide receiver at various points this season, but there's no denying that he's been a huge disappointment. Not nearly as disappointing as Albert Haynesworth, but certainly nothing to get excited about, either.

Ochocinco's absence could mean more opportunities for Taylor Price. Safety Patrick Chung, cornerback Devin McCourty, and center Dan Connelly have also been ruled out for New England.

The Eagles secondary, meanwhile, has its own problems. Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie is a long shot to play and Nnamdi Asomugha is questionable after suffering a knee injury during practice this week. Philly will also be without wide receiver Jeremy Maclin and quarterback Michael Vick, which means Vince Young will make his second consecutive start.

This Sunday, the New England Patriots will square off against the Philadelphia Eagles at Lincoln Financial Field. Who will come out on top? NFL.com's Pat Kirwan and Jason Horowitz preview this game. Watch the game on CBS at 4:15 PM ET.

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