Patriots vs Dolphins: Key Matchups and Challenges in Week 12 Showdown

The New England Patriots are set to face the Miami Dolphins in a Week 12 matchup at Hard Rock Stadium, a venue that has historically been challenging for the Patriots. Coming off a loss and firmly out of the playoff picture, the Patriots are looking for any signs of optimism, particularly from rookie quarterback Drake Maye.

Maye has been a bright spot for the Patriots, already making history as one of three rookie quarterbacks to throw 40 times or more and complete 70 percent of his passes in a game, a feat also achieved by Justin Herbert and Joe Burrow. However, the question remains whether Maye will be the sole reason for optimism by the end of the season.

The Dolphins, led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, present a significant challenge. Tagovailoa is 6-0 against the Patriots in his career and has excelled against man-to-man and blitz-heavy defenses, which the Patriots have traditionally employed. To counter this, the Patriots may need to adopt more zone looks to limit the impact of receivers Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, and tight end Jonnu Smith.

The matchup between Patriots offensive coordinator Alex Van Pelt and Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver will be crucial. Van Pelt’s early-game scripts have been effective, but the Dolphins have been strong in the first quarter defensively since Week 6. The Patriots might find success by targeting running back Rhamondre Stevenson, as the Dolphins struggle when backs are targeted in the passing game.

The Dolphins’ pass rush, led by veterans Calais Campbell and Zach Sieler, along with rookie Chop Robinson, will pose a significant threat to the Patriots’ offensive line. Campbell’s ability to create chaos with twists and stunts, and Robinson’s speed off the edge, could exploit the Patriots’ ongoing issues with their offensive line.

The Patriots have lost seven of their last eight games against the Dolphins, with their last win coming in Week 17 of the 2022 season. Despite this, two of the Patriots’ three wins this season have been on the road, offering a glimmer of hope. Cornerback Christian Gonzalez, who was questionable due to a hip injury, is active and expected to face off against Tyreek Hill.