Damien Harris will be out for the Patriots' pivotal game against the Dolphins. Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports

Patriots RB Damien Harris ruled out against Dolphins with ankle injury

The New England Patriots will be forced to take on the Miami Dolphins this weekend without one of their top running backs. 

The Patriots ruled out Damien Harris for Sunday's road game with an ankle injury. He wasn't initially on the injury report this week, but was listed with an ankle injury on Thursday.

Harris has been New England's best running back this season, carrying the ball for 691 yards and two touchdowns with 52 receiving yards. 

With Harris sidelined, Sony Michel will get the opportunity to see the ball more this weekend. In six games this season, Michel has 43 carries for 230 yards and one touchdown with 46 yards receiving. 

The Patriots are clinging to the hope that they'll be able to make the playoffs. However, Bill Belichick's squad has to win its remaining three games to at least have a chance at a postseason spot. 

New England also ruled out wide receiver Donte Moncrief with a thigh injury.

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