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Staff predictions for Miami Dolphins versus New England Patriots

By Matthew Stevens

Sep 18, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) fumble the ball then recovers the ball under pressure from Miami Dolphins free safety Michael Thomas (31) in the second half at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Miami Dolphins 31-24. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports
Sep 18, 2016; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Jacoby Brissett (7) fumble the ball then recovers the ball under pressure from Miami Dolphins free safety Michael Thomas (31) in the second half at Gillette Stadium. The Patriots defeated the Miami Dolphins 31-24. Mandatory Credit: David Butler II-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Miami Dolphins close out their 2016 season against the New England Patriots in a game that has playoff ramifications for both teams.  The PhinPhanatic staff predicts who finishes the season on a high note.

James Anderson

The running game has returned for the Dolphins thanks in part to better health on the offensive line and a new/old technique of cut blocking. The two oldest offensive linemen have graded out the worst over the season by pro football focus and the technique may serve them well. Having a better running game going forward is important as it takes pressure of other assets of the game and can set up better play calling.

The Patriots are a perennial good team however when Brady has come down to play they are 6-8 overall. It seems this Dolphins team is breaking away from past records but this one needs to keep trending. One trend this season has been when the Dolphins score over 25 points they have won every game. A few turnovers can help out towards this also.  Prediction:  Dolphins 27 Patriots 24

Sean Dension

With the amount of injuries heading into the final game of the season, it’s hard to imagine the Dolphins coming out of this contest against the New England Patriots with a win. But this is a new Dolphins’ team; their resilient. Look for Miami to continue to shock the NFL world and head into the postseason on a positive note: with a win.  Prediction:  Dolphins 26  Patriots 24

Eric Frosbutter

Miami has clinched their first playoff berth since 2008. Even though the pressure of making the playoffs is off, Miami still has something to play for, and so do the Patriots. The Dolphins can get the 5th seed with a win and Kansas City loss. New England can clinch home-field advantage with a win or Oakland loss. Both teams are expected to play their starters, although Miami is dealing with some key injuries. Brady has struggled some in Miami so look for the Dolphins defense to pressure him early. The Dolphins keep their momentum going into the playoffs with another big win.  Prediction:  Dolphins 20  Patriots 17

Tyler Olson

I was backwards last week in my prediction of Miami losing to Buffalo due to an Andrew Franks missed field goal. Franks proved me wrong in a big way with his 55-yarder to force OT and game winner in the extra quarter.

This week it’s a much tougher task. After surrendering 300+ yards to Tyrod Taylor, Tom Brady is licking his chops especially with Byron Maxwell expected to sit out.  It isn’t a must win this week but a win and a Kansas City loss would put Miami in Houston, a much better matchup for the Dolphins in Wild Card round. I have faith in Miami winning especially due to their success against New England at home but the Dolphins will just have to prove me and a lot of other people wrong. Once again.  Prediction:  Patriots 27  Dolphins 17

Carlton Ray

This weekend’s final regular season game is an opportunity for the Dolphins to measure themselves against the Patriots in an exhibition type scenario. It is also a chance, if Kansas City loses, for the Dolphins to move up to the 5th seed in the playoffs. However, Coach Adam Gase may elect to rest some of his starters, especially the defense, where injuries have hit the Dolphins pretty hard. As for the Patriots, it’s hard to predict what Belichick will do. Most likely, both teams come out with vanilla game plans, with second stringers playing most of the game.  Prediction:  Dolphins 25  Patriots 20

Brian Miller

The Dolphins are post-season bound and can still wrap up the 5th seed with a win on Sunday and a Kansas City loss. The Patriots are looking to secure homefield advantage and haven’t won in Miami for the last three years. The Dolphins have had a Cinderella season but this Patriots team is simply too good and the Dolphins are too banged up.

Prediction: Patriots 36 Dolphins 28

Matthew Stevens

The Dolphins clinched a playoff berth last week by sneaking past a weak Bills team but this is “Patriots Week”.  Miami has won three in a row at home against the Pats but, unlike past contests, I believe Miami gets New England’s best shot.

While Miami’s offense looks explosive with Matt Moore under center, the defense continues to look Titanic AFTER it hit the iceberg.

The Patriots run the ball well with LeGarrette Blount and their backs can also catch well out of the backfield.  I expect the Patriots to be hungrier for the #1 seed than Miami will be for the 5th seed.  Prediction:  Patriots 27  Dolphins 17

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