The New England Patriots are set to face off against the Miami Dolphins this Sunday in an exciting clash of AFC East rivals. With a record of 3-8, the Patriots are in a rebuilding phase led by their new head coach, Jerod Mayo. Meanwhile, the Dolphins have struggled to find their rhythm this season, currently sitting at 4-6, despite the recent return of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Earlier this season, Miami edged out New England with a narrow 15-10 victory. The game will kick off at 1:00 p.m. EST.
Read on for the prediction of the Patriots/Dolphins game.
Patriots Turn to Rookie Quarterback
The New England Patriots may have a disappointing record of 3-8, but they have found hope in rookie quarterback Drake Maye, who has taken the reins from Jacoby Brissett. Maye’s presence has sparked a renewed energy within the team. In last week’s matchup against the Rams, he threw for 282 yards and two touchdowns, including a surprising score to offensive lineman Vederian Lowe. Despite his efforts, the Patriots fell 28-22. Maye did face challenges, surrendering a strip-sack that led to a touchdown and throwing an interception as the team aimed to regain the lead late in the game. Overall, New England showcased 382 total yards and achieved 26 first downs, but their defense allowed 402 total yards, including 295 through the air.
“We have enough talent in our locker room to be a very good football team; we’ve just got to be able to put it together,” Coach Jerod Mayo stated. “We’ll grow into being able to finish and close out these games.”
The Patriots are still seeking their first consecutive win of the season and are eager to change that narrative in Miami. This matchup will be the Dolphins’ first look at Maye, as he was the backup in their previous encounter. Currently, the Patriots rank 31st in total offense and 30th in scoring. Their rushing attack sits at 15th, but they struggle significantly in the passing game, ranking dead last in that category. They also find themselves near the bottom in red zone efficiency and sacks allowed. On defense, New England is positioned 20th in total defense and 18th in scoring defense.
Key Injuries: Defensive tackle Daniel Ekuale, linebacker Anfernee Jennings, defensive end Keion White, safety Kyle Dugger, and defensive tackle Jaquelin Roy are all questionable for Sunday’s game.
Dolphins Seek Playoff Position
The Miami Dolphins have recently seen improvement since the return of their starting quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, three weeks ago. With a record of 2-1 during this span, the Dolphins secured a 34-19 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders last Sunday. Tagovailoa threw for three touchdowns, two of which were caught by tight end Jonnu Smith. He completed 28 of 36 passes for 288 yards and connected with wide receiver Tyreek Hill for a touchdown, marking Hill’s second consecutive game with a score after a slow start to the season. Miami achieved 353 total yards and converted 8-of-12 third downs, showcasing a more balanced offensive effort.
“We’ve got good enough players to where if we get them the ball in space, we like our chances,” Tagovailoa commented.
With six losses already, the Dolphins have little margin for error as they aim to sweep the season series against the Patriots. They have won 8 of the last 10 matchups. Miami currently ranks 22nd in total offense and 27th in scoring. Their rushing game is 21st, while their passing game is ranked 23rd. Defensively, the Dolphins have shown strength, sitting 9th in total defense and 15th in scoring defense, but they struggle to generate pressure on quarterbacks, ranking 30th in that category.
Key Injuries: Wide receiver Tyreek Hill, cornerback Jalen Ramsey, fullback Alec Ingold, cornerback Kendall Fuller, and guard Robert Jones are all questionable for this game.
