Usually, I write about the things the Patriots need to do in order to beat their opponents. Today's post will be a combo of what they need to do to win, and what they just generally need to do.
Shut Down Receivers- The Patriots' passing defense is looking light years better than in September. A big part of that is increased communication and people both knowing and doing their jobs. Another huge part of the Patriots' defense is making tackles. Today they will need to do a great job on preventing Jarvis Landry or Kenny Stills from having a great game. With Landry being one of the top slot receivers in the league and the Patriots struggling to stop slots this season, the improved defense will need to show that they've got the slot covered now. The fact that Patrick Chung may not play today, may make this an even taller order of business.
Protect the Franchise- Cameron Wake and Ndamukong Suh want nothing more than to spend this Sunday afternoon throwing Tom Brady around. While Wake generally appears to try and tally up sacks legally, Suh is still a dirty player. Whether the ball has been snapped or not, there's a good chance Suh is going to come over the line of scrimmage with a full head of steam. In just about every game he's played against the Patriots he's earned at least one encroachment penalty. Regardless of whether or not play is live, everyone on the field for the Patriots best make sure they know Suh's whereabouts.
Avoid Penalties- When it comes to penalties, the Patriots and Dolphins are polar opposites. The Patriots are tied for 4th best in the league while the Dolphins are tied for second most. Just last wee alone, the Dolphins racked up 17 penalties, many of which were pre-snap. When it comes to the pre-snap variety, the Patriots are tied for top position with the Vikings. The Dolphins are the worst team and have 18 false starts so far this season.
The Usual- It should go without saying that ball security, especially between the 30 and either endzone, is a key to winning today. Avoiding offensive 3 and outs and playing solid special teams should put the Patriots in position for yet another winning season.
Avoid Penalties- When it comes to penalties, the Patriots and Dolphins are polar opposites. The Patriots are tied for 4th best in the league while the Dolphins are tied for second most. Just last wee alone, the Dolphins racked up 17 penalties, many of which were pre-snap. When it comes to the pre-snap variety, the Patriots are tied for top position with the Vikings. The Dolphins are the worst team and have 18 false starts so far this season.
The Usual- It should go without saying that ball security, especially between the 30 and either endzone, is a key to winning today. Avoiding offensive 3 and outs and playing solid special teams should put the Patriots in position for yet another winning season.
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