The Miami Dolphins will finish their season in New England as they take on the 13-3 Patriots. Leading the way for the Dolphins will be rookie seventh-round pick Quinn Ewers, making his third appearance as the team’s starting quarterback. Ewers replaced quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who was benched following Miami’s Monday Night Football loss in Pittsburgh.
Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel has praised his young quarterback, saying, “What stands out is that he has all the tools to continue to grow. That field vision; (he has) a level of fearlessness. The growth in the limited opportunities – two full games – has been impressive.”
In two starts, Ewers has shown growth. In his first start against the Bengals, he threw two interceptions without a touchdown. Meanwhile, in his second start, he threw two touchdowns without turning the ball over.
Patriots’ Mike Vrabel Shares Feelings on Ewers
Prior to their game on Sunday, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel was asked about what he’s seen from Quinn Ewers. He said, “Saw an energy in that Tampa Bay game. I saw a youthful energy. A guy that’s trying to take advantage of his opportunity… seems to have good command of the operation.” Unlike former Patriots head coach Bill Belichick, Mike Vrabel had success against former quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, as Vrabel went 3-0 against him. Sunday will mark his first meeting against Quinn Ewers.
Additionally, Vrabel gave the whole Dolphins praise, saying “[Dolphins] are 5-2 in their last seven games. Have created 13 turnovers in those 5 wins, have a RB that’s first in the league in YPC, YAC, and explosive runs and some young DL that are really improving and playing well.” Unfortunately for Miami, it now seems the Dolphins will be without their explosive running back, De’Von Achane, as he’s listed as doubtful heading into Sunday’s game in New England.
Dolphins vs Patriots
The Dolphins will try to avoid being swept by the Patriots for the first time since 2016. They will try to do so despite missing several of their key players. Alongside previously mentioned Achane, tight end Darren Waller was placed on Injured Reserve and will be out, Minkah Fitzpatrick will also miss his third consecutive game. The status of Aaron Brewer, Jaylen Waddle and Jordyn Brooks are also up in the air.
Additionally, the Dolphins will also not have Tyreek Hill, who was available in the previous matchup Miami had against the Patriots this season. The Patriots won that game 33-27, after a kickoff return touchdown gave them the lead in the fourth quarter. gave them the lead in the fourth-quarter. New England has improved since, winning 12 out of their last 13 games, and ranking in the top five in offense and defense. Their quarterback Drake Maye has become the league’s MVP favorite and a strong performance against Miami could wrap up the award for him.
For the Dolphins, Quinn Ewers and Mike McDaniel will make one final audition to keep their current jobs heading into next season. A win against a 13-3 Patriots team could boost both their chances. Running back Jaylen Wright will likely also have his first start of the season. He posted over 100 rushing yards against the Jets, when Achane went out with a rib injury.
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