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Stevan Ridley Looks to Danny Woodhead as Leader of Patriots Running Backs, Enjoys His Touchdown Dances (Video)

FOXBORO, Mass. — Stevan Ridley nearly pulled off his fifth 100-yard performance of the season on Sunday, yet he wasn’t even the star of the Patriots’ backfield in the win.

Danny Woodhead, the elder statesman on the Patriots’ running back depth chart, busted out one of the biggest games of his NFL career with a pair of touchdowns and contributions in every facet of the offense. That sort of all-around performance had a euphoric effect for many, as Woodhead has seemingly filled Kevin Faulk‘s old role on offense.

Woodhead’s versatility isn’t the only thing that could be connected to Faulk, though. His leadership has also been a point of praise from many teammates, and Ridley joined in on the parade after Sunday’s win.

“That’s the leader in our room, and Woody does it all. He runs the ball, catches it well and he’s a threat to the defense,” Ridley said. “So, they got to go and find the little short guy out there. But most of the time he’s out there making plays, so my hat’s off to Woody for leading our room and doing his job.”

After Woodhead’s first touchdown, the animated tailback put on a little shimmy shake to celebrate what was at that point just his third score of the season. Woodhead hinted that Ridley may have given him some pointers on the touchdown dance. Ridley would neither confirm or deny, but he couldn’t hold back his laughter on his teammate’s moves.

“He’s feeling it, man. He’s feeling it,” Ridley said with a laugh and a smile. “What can we say about Woody. Two touchdowns, I say he does what he wants.”

Whether it’s keeping the running backs focused on the field or lightening the mood off it, Woodhead’s clearly guiding the Patriots’ backfield in the right direction.

Watch Ridley speak about Woodhead in the video above.

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