The Patriots visit the Dolphins this week. On paper this is a tough match up for the Patriots, especially on defense. The Dolphins offense presents a lot of problems. The Patriots will have to be creative with their defensive plan if they want to slow this offense down.

Offensively, the Patriots should be able to move the football. Miami’s front seven is good but there are match ups New England can exploit in the passing game.

Here are six scheme keys for the Patriots.

Offense

1. Man-Gap Run Game: The Patriots need to set a physical tone with their running game and the best way to do it is by utilizing man gap blocking schemes. Double teaming at the point of attack and leading through or kicking out can wear a front down. Don’t just run inside or outside zone. Run power, counter and toss and give the offensive an angular advantage.

2. Screen on early downs: Slow down the Miami pass rush with some early down screen calls. The Patriots have to find a way to protect the offensive line and Mac Jones in this game. Slowing things down and taking advantage of their aggressiveness with screens is one way to do it. Look for H-Screens, perimeter screens and throwback screens to be a part of the plan tonight.

3. Leveled passing attack: The Patriots passing game is at its best when Bill O’Brien attacks areas of the field. Attacking the middle of the field using leveled routes is one way to do that. It gets the tight ends involved in the passing game and it plays into the receivers strengths as well. Look for dig, crosser concepts, curl-flat and 10-12 out cut combos to be a prominent part of the plan.

Defense

1. Mix zone and man coverage: The Patriots have to blend coverages tonight. I would expect a fair amount of zone but also some combination coverages and some Cover 2 Man as well to protect the corners. Miami’s speed is a problem. Being aggressive and playing pure man or match up coverages is not smart against the Dolphins. The Patriots have to mix up their coverages and vary the alignment of their secondary. Disguising will be key.

2. Balanced fronts: The Patriots used more five man box the last time these two teams played. Raheem Mostert took advantage by rushing for 121 yards and two touchdowns. The Patriots need to play more six man boxes, especially on early and medium downs. Miami is patient when it comes to running the ball. The Patriots have to be in the right front at all times. Eye discipline versus their motion will also be key.

3. Zone Blitz & Sim Pressure: Worked last week against Jalen Hurts. The Patriots need to be smart with their pressure packages tonight. I would bring four, five and on occasion six guys but I would not be reckless if I were Bill Belichick and the defensive staff. You want to cloud Tua’s reads. Best way to do it? Zone blitzes and sim pressure. Show and drop late. The Patriots have to force him to hold the ball as long as possible.