Austin Jackson
We can make a good assumption that if Terron Armstead plays and stays healthy through the game, the left side of the line will be fine. The question is on the right side where Austin Jackson has to be able to hold the edge.
Jackson hasn’t looked bad at all during the exhibition season and the change in coaching might be working but fans still hear his name and think about the previous two seasons and how inconsistent he has been. That has to change against a Belichick defense that will likely put pressure off his side and stunts between him and guard Robert Hunt.
If Jackson can keep defenders off Tua, the offense is going to open up and running lanes will be easier to hit but if he can’t, the Dolphins will have a long day trying to keep Tua upright. Nothing will kill a drive quicker than a sack and this will be the focus of Belichick’s defense and it will start on the right side.
Jackson can dictate early how this game goes and if he succeeds, the Dolphins’ offense is going to look very good. If he does not, well, let’s hope Mike McDaniel adjusts his offense.