The Miami Dolphins will aim to avoid double-digit losses for the first time since 2019 as they take on the 13-3 New England Patriots. Bookmakers do not believe in the Dolphins’ chances of beating New England, as they’re currently 11.5-point underdogs in the matchup.
Rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers will hope to pull off an upset for the second week in a row. He led the Dolphins to a 20-17 win over Tampa Bay, in which he went 14-for-22 with 172 passing yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. Speaking of his comfort level in his second career NFL start, Ewers said, “Felt comfortable with the guys, they had confidence in me. I felt very well prepared.”
McDaniel also praised the young quarterback and his performance against Tampa Bay, saying “He’s very calm, cool and collected in the orchestration of the QB position.” Now, Miami will hope Ewers delivers yet another cool and collected performance against one of the NFL’s top teams. If not, the Dolphins may get swept by the Patriots for the first time since 2016.
Dolphins Player Facing Punishment
Unfortunately for the Dolphins and their players, it was not all good news against the Buccaneers. Miami cornerback Jack Jones, who set a new career-high with ten tackles in the win against Tampa, also faced some disciplinary actiondisciplinary action by the NFL for his actions during the game.
During the second quarter, rookie cornerback Jason Marshall notched his first career interception. However, during the return, Jack Jones was flagged for an illegal blindside block which resulted in a 15-yard penalty on the return. Fortunately for Miami, the penalty did not negate the takeaway and the Dolphins defense did not lose momentum as they ended the game with three total takeaways. The penalty did, however, carry a fine for Jack Jones, who was fined $6,111 for the illegal block.
It has not been all bad news for Jones recently. His heroics against the Commanders, where he caught the game-winning interception for Miami in Madrid were put on display at the Pro Football Hall of Fame museum in Canton. Jones’ game-worn jersey has been put on display, where it will remain for a year. His jersey was chosen as it marked the first game the NFL had ever played in Madrid.
Dolphins vs Patriots
The punishment does not carry a suspension, which means Jack Jones will be available for the Dolphins against the Patriots. He’ll be much needed as he’s been one of Miami’s most consistent players this season, starting all 17 games for the team. Unfortunately, the Dolphins will be without fellow defensive back Minkah Fitzpatrick. Miami’s safety did not return for any game after his injury on Monday Night Football against the Steelers.
The Dolphins will look to win the game on Sunday; however, a loss could improve their draft stock as they currently sit at 11th in the upcoming draft, but could move all the way to 8th with a loss and some additional results. Miami has not had their own pick in the top ten since the 2020 NFL Draft, where they took quarterback Tua Tagovailoa with the fifth overall selection.
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