The Miami Dolphins’ keys to victory in New England
2. Slow down New England’s run game
The Patriots have spent big in free agency to add weapons to their offense. The two most notable additions were tight ends Hunter Henry and Jonnu Smith. This will give them the ability run a lot of 12 (1 RB, 2 TE, 2 WR) and 13 (1 RB, 3 TE, 1 WR) personnel looks. Damien Harris is an ascending talent out of the backfield and the Rhamondre Stevenson has looked solid this preseason.
With this being Mac Jones’ first NFL start, I would expect to see a lot of two tight end sets and an emphasis on establishing the running game this Sunday. Brian Flores has an exceptional track record against rookie quarterbacks, dating back to his time as New England’s defensive signal caller. Unless Mac Jones is really the second coming of Tom Brady, it would be foolish to put the game in his hands.
Miami’s week one loss in 2020 came because they couldn’t stop the Patriots rushing attack. Now, luckily for the Dolphins, 75 of the 217 yards they surrendered were from Cam Newton. That is a dimension that Mac Jones just doesn’t bring to the table.
Game script played a huge part in their demise as well. They went into the half down 7-3 and entered the fourth quarter down 14-3. The Patriots didn’t really have to drop back and throw the ball. They could take their time and dash Miami’s hopes four or five yards at a time.
Must Read. The Miami Dolphins have quietly built a fearsome front seven. light
The Dolphins have quietly built a solid front seven and they’ll need good performances from Raekwon Davis, Christian Wilkins, Zach Sieler, John Jenkins, and former Patriot Adam Butler. The departure of Benardrick McKinney was a curious move, but Elandon Roberts has shown himself to be a solid run defender as well.
New England’s greatest strength on offense is still their line. Even with the departure of Joe Thuney, they are a unit that can take over the game. It’s important that Miami gets out to a quick start and forces Mac Jones to beat them with his arm. It doesn’t guarantee success, but they have a better chance at victory if they can do those things.