The Patriots survived in a 23-21 win over the Dolphins. After going into the half tied at 7-7, the Patriots defense sparked a comeback. Trailing 14-10, Kyle Dugger picked off Dolphins quarterback Teddy Bridgewater and returned it 39 yards for a touchdown. The Patriots never looked back as a late Jakobi Meyers touchdown put the game away.

Here are seven points on today’s win.

1. Team win: The offense got off to a slow start once again but Mac Jones and company did their part in the second half to aid the defense which once again put the team in a position to win the game.

2. Mac plays big in the second half: Mac Jones struggled in the first half but turned it on in the second half. He was in rhythm and on point making several throws that positioned the Patriots to score late and put the game away. Mac finished 20/33 for 203 yards and 2 touchdowns.

3. Situational problems continue: Despite the performance of the offense in the second half, the Patriots still have situational problems. Throwing on a 3rd & 1 in the first half. Passing up on a field goal late that would have given them a 26-14 lead late. These were situations that the Patriots excelled in. Not anymore. The Patriots take too many unnecessary chances and it makes no sense. Bill Belichick is the greatest situational coach of all time but you wouldn’t think that watching them play now.

4. Defense scores again: The Patriots defense scored their seventh defensive touchdown this season after Kyle Dugger’s 39 yard pick six yesterday. The score was Dugger’s fourth defensive touchdown of the season. The defense once again played well despite giving up 21 points. This unit is playing at a historic level. They could be tough to face if the Patriots get into the playoffs.

5. Tyquan Thornton shows up: The rookie wide receiver had his second best game of the season catching 3 passes for 60 yards and a touchdown. Thornton consistently beat man coverage and his proved that he has the ability to not only make big plays with his speed but with his hands and body control as well.

6.  Offensive line struggled again: I can literally copy and paste this week in and week out. The offensive line had another rough outing. Trent Brown had his league leading 13th penalty, Mac Jones was consistently under pressure and the running game was once again limited. If the Patriots are to upset Buffalo on Sunday, this unit needs to step and play much better than they have of late.

7. McCourty and Slater play their last home game? Did Devin McCourty and Matthew Slater play their last home game for the Patriots? It certainly felt that way after the game as both spent extra time on the field. McCourty went out with his family and soaked it all in. It felt like this was it for both and if it was, they will be greatly missed both in the locker room and on the field.