Courtesy of ABC 6 South Florida
Both the New England Patriots and the Miami Dolphins are looking to rebound from Week 1 losses. With both teams looking for their first victory of the season, here are five key matchups that could decide the outcome of Sunday’s game.
1. Patriots Offensive Line vs. Dolphins Defensive Front: The Patriots’ new-look offensive line struggled in Week 1, allowing four sacks to the Raiders. This week, they face a Dolphins defensive front that, despite a lackluster performance against the Colts, is considered one of their strongest units. Miami is known for its aggressive, schemed pressure, which could spell trouble for a New England line featuring a new rookie left tackle in Will Campbell, a rookie left guard in Jared Wilson and a new right tackle in Morgan Moses. If the Patriots’ offensive line can hold up and give quarterback Drake Maye time to operate, New England’s offense could find success against a Miami secondary that has been riddled with injuries.
2. Drake Maye vs. Dolphins Pass Rush: As a direct result of the offensive line’s performance, the pressure will be on second-year quarterback Drake Maye. Maye had a tough Week 1 outing, getting sacked four times and throwing an interception. The Dolphins’ defensive coordinator, Anthony Weaver, is an expert at creating pressure without sending extra rushers, a scheme that has troubled Maye in the past. Maye will need to make quick, smart decisions to avoid the pressure and get the ball to his playmakers. His ability to navigate the pocket and get the ball out quickly will be a major factor in the game.
3. Patriots Running Game vs. Dolphins Run Defense: The Patriots’ running game, led by Rhamondre Stevenson and rookie TreVeyon Henderson, was largely ineffective in Week 1. However, they’ll face a Dolphins defense that showed vulnerability against the run last week, allowing 156 rushing yards to the Colts. Getting the running game going could be a key to success for the Patriots. A strong ground attack would not only control the tempo and help New England deal with the Miami heat and humidity, but it would also take pressure off Drake Maye and open up play-action opportunities.
4. Tyreek Hill vs. Patriots Secondary: The Patriots have their hands full with one of the league’s most explosive receivers in Tyreek Hill. While Hill had a quiet Week 1, he has a favorable matchup against a Patriots secondary that will be without top cover corner Christian Gonzalez, who is out with a hamstring injury. The Patriots’ defense gave up a number of big plays in their opener, and with Hill’s speed, they will need to be disciplined in their coverage and limit his opportunities for a long reception. The Patriots have managed to contain Hill in some past matchups, but this will be a major challenge for their shorthanded secondary.
5. Tua Tagovailoa vs. Patriots Defense: Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has historically been a thorn in the Patriots’ side, holding a perfect 7-0 record against them as a starter. While he struggled in Week 1 with a poor performance that included two interceptions, he is known for his quick release and the Dolphins’ offense is designed to get the ball out of his hands fast. The Patriots’ pass rush showed promise in Week 1, generating 22 pressures, and they will need to be relentless in getting to Tagovailoa. At the same time, the secondary will need to play tight coverage and tackle well to prevent yards after the catch. The Patriots simply have to find a way to stop Tua this time.