Been thinking about tomorrow night's game all day. Hard to temper expectations but I keep getting worked up about the possibility of beating NE in Foxborough. I know that isn't going to happen but I think Miami can make a respectable showing of it, and it's the closest we have been in a good while:
- NE has allowed 10 sacks in the last 3 games. Miami needs to get an interior pass rush, and can get pressure with just 4, but...
- Miami has 50/50 weakness on defense: LBs are good vs the run, below average on pass coverage. Reshad Jones is playing at a pro bowl level, but free safety Michaels is not great. Brent Grimes can hold his own, but Jamar Taylor could have a long night. NE will probably have a lot of 2 TE sets, quick passes, screens, and go no huddle to negate Miami's strength at pass rush.
- Miami might not be able to stop NE, but their offense is no slouch either. Between Lamar Miller, Jarvis Landry, Davante Parker, Rishard Matthews, Jordan Cameron, and Kenny Stills...this could be a high scoring game.
- A jets fan noted that last week NE's O-line comitted a lot of holding penalties, which is classic Belichick gamesmanship: Hold every play and eventually the refs stop calling it. Not really complaining since I didn't see the game, but something like this would not surprise me.
- Miami does not have a coaching edge, but does have a little element of surprise. With recent offensive production, Tannehill playing well, and the coaching change, there is the random element of what Miami might try. Dan Campbell is like the backup QB making his first start: nobody has film on him and Miami didn't have to dig very deep when blowing out Tennessee and Houston.
- Miami's starters are rested since they led 41-0 at halftime last week, while NE just played a tough game vs. the Jets. Only LB Chris McCain is questionable, everyone is probable or healthy. Small advantage but very needed.
- Brady will get hit while dropping back on 3rd down and lobby for a roughing the passer call and get it. They will score on that drive.
- Tannehill is better than Fitzpatrick.
One of the most exciting primetime games of the year, but Miami will not have enough to pull off an upset, and everyone who wants the Patriots to lose (literally everyone but Pats fans) will have to wait another week (but I hope I'm wrong! )
NE wins 37-34.