Miami Dolphins
vs.
New England Patriots
NFL Pick
9/18/16
Bill Belichick finds a way to win reGArdless of who is on the field. Jimmy GAroppolo pulled off an improbable win over an NFC favorite Arizona Cardinals and without Rob Gronkowski. GAroppolo looked like a young and healthy Tony Romo out on the field. When plays broke down, GAroppolo played back yard football and found a way to complete important passes in big situations.
While statistically LeGArrette Blount did not have a big Game, he played a crucial role in balaNCing the attack and controlling the time of possession. The Patriots put together and executed a really good Game plan on both sides of the ball. They did struggle to keep LArry Fitzgerald in check, but they will not see that type of receiving core in Miami this weekend.
The Dolphins outplayed the Seahawks in every aspect of the Game outside of execution and the last and Game ending possession. It was a real grinding type of football Game that was controlled by both defenses. The Dolphins had plenty of opportunities to Scorepoints, but a dropped, wide open, walk-in touchdown pass was dropped by Kenny Stills. Kenny Stills had a great preseason, but that drop is comparable to missing a free throw in the gym by yourself. There was also a missed block that cost the Dolphins a field goal. The Dolphins’ defense is the Real Deal and they outplayed a very good team. However, mental lapses cost them the victory.
Gronkowski likely returns this week and figures to be a major part of the Game plan offensively. Fact is tough, even without Brady, Gronk and a few lineman, the Pats offense is STILL better than what we saw from the Dolphins, going back to last season. Patriots -6.5