As the Miami Dolphins continue to finalize their defensive game plan install for Week 1 against the New England Patriots, mystery remains amid the preparations. We’ve had no opportunities to see the Dolphins operate to this point in the season — the lack of preseason games offers little clues to how Miami will look to operate. Just like their opponent, the New England Patriots. But looking over the roster, we can begin to anticipate what the Dolphins’ game plan will look like and where the Dolphins will focus their energy.
Where should we anticipate the Dolphins attacking the Patriots when New England has the ball?
Bracket Julian Edelman in the slot
Edelman is the engine which the Patriots’ passing offense has run through in recent years. If the Dolphins can keep him busy and ensure his slew of option routes aren’t constantly breaking open in the shallow spaces underneath, then the entire offensive game plan will force the ball to secondary threats in the passing game.
Contain rush versus Cam Newton
Newton’s athleticism threats to derail Miami’s pressure opportunities, so staying disciplined on the outside and not allowing Newton to break contain of the pocket is a big key to the game. Miami must remain committed to trying to collapse blockers into Newton’s lap and not allow him to find open space as a thrower — forcing him to stand tall in tight spaces and win as a passer will best test the Patriots’ chemistry and timing with so many new pieces.
Fill interior gaps quickly
The Dolphins should aspire to slam the door shut on inside gaps in the run game. With Newton’s presence as a potential runner, the Patriots will have an extra gap to work with in the run game and Miami must be able to fill suddenly and avoid uneven levels up front. The Patriots will miss RB Damien Harris in this game but the rest of the backfield features plenty of power — so don’t let Newton and the backs start gouging the interior.