6 keys of the game for the Dolphins to beat the Saints
By Matt Serniak
![Dec 19, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive end Christian Wilkins (94) celebrates with teammates after catching a pass for a touchdown against the New York Jets during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports Dec 19, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive end Christian Wilkins (94) celebrates with teammates after catching a pass for a touchdown against the New York Jets during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports](https://images2.minutemediacdn.com/image/upload/c_fill,w_720,ar_16:9,f_auto,q_auto,g_auto/shape/cover/sport/https-3A-2F-2Fphinphanatic-com-2Fwp-content-2Fuploads-2Fimagn-images-2F2017-2F07-2F17385587-850x560-e89b6b7048277efac83771d5ea7c8c1941489c4d42098200364adbfefdb11fa7.jpg)
Truthfully, I’d like about 100 impact plays. Even during this holiday season, I’m only looking for one impact play out of the defense or special teams unit. And I’m not talking about just an interception or a long field goal. I’m talking about a pick-six or an interception that gets taken down to the five-yard line. I’m talking about a strip-sack fumble that gets picked up and taken a good distance. I’m talking about a punt return that gets me off my couch screaming for Waddle or whoever it is to stay in bounds.
I want some kind of play that gives the Dolphins all the momentum or sucks the life out of the Saints. I think it could happen, especially on the defensive side of the ball just because I think Hill is going to serve up a few passes that could be picked off and taken to the house.
I have my doubts about the offense generating enough points or even winning the field position game so a bonus play made by one of these units directly resulting in points is what I think needs to happen. It’s been a few weeks since a play like this happened so I think the team is due.
By the Way- The Miami Dolphins, if they are smart, will wear their all-white throwback uniforms. The Saints are petitioning their fans to wear all black to create a blackout. Miami wearing the best jersey in sports on Monday night will make the all-black uniforms look like something reserved for bums.
The anticipation is growing for this game. Enjoy the holiday safely and have the best time possible I’ll probably get something out tomorrow morning concerning a certain holiday that falls on December 23rd. If by chance I don’t, have a great holiday.