The Dolphins have wasted great defensive efforts this season because their offense can’t score (12.8 points per game).  The Patriots have reinvented themselves into a power running team (154.0 yards rushing per game) and are off to a good start to the season.

The Dolphins offense has the talent to challenge the Patriots, but they will have to protect the football.  Daunte Culpepper looks like he’s still hurting a bit, but that is no excuse for not getting rid of the ball sooner (21 sacks) or fumbling the football.  Teams have been effective throwing the ball against the Patriots (222.8 yards passing) and the Dolphins have been quick to abandon their running game this season.  The Dolphins would be smart to throw short passes to Wes Welker, Randy McMichael and Ronnie Brown to move the Patriots defense closer to the line, and then go over the top to Chris Chambers and Marty Booker.

The Patriots will not change their offense, even thought the Dolphins have been stingy vs. the run only allowing 3.0 yards per carry.  The Pats will pound the Dolphins with rookie running back Laurence Maroney (294 yards rushing) and Corey Dillon (236 yards rushing).  After the run is established, Tom Brady (891 yards passing) will spread the ball around as he really doesn’t have a favorite receiver.  This is really a testament to Tom Brady’s greatness. 

The Patriots never lose games against inferior teams at home, and they won’t start today.  The Pats will win by at least 10 points.