The Patriots were in hot water after two straight losses in weeks
two and three, but came ready to play against a 3-0 Dolphins squad. After a low
scoring and tight first quarter, the Pats held a 3-0 lead after a Gostkowski
field goal. Brady threw an early interception, however, the Dolphins were
unable to capitalize on the opportunity.
From this point on it was all Patriots. Cordarrelle Patterson
started the big win with a 56- yard touchdown reception. This was no normal
catch though, this was the longest touchdown reception of the Patriot’s season
and Brady’s 495th touchdown pass, tying for 4th all time in touchdown passes.
A bad snap and turnover by
the Dolphins then led to an easy one play 22- yard touchdown run for James
White. From here on out it was business as usual for the Pats. Although the
Patriots offense was firing on all cylinders, scoring 38 points, the Defense was
the star of the show. After struggling for the first three weeks allowing 20 or
more points per game, they held the Dolphins scoreless until about three
minutes left in the game.
The Patriots offensive
success was all thanks to the stellar run game and breakout performance from
Sony Michel, the Patriots 2018 first round draft pick out of Georgia. He ran
for 112 yards on 25 attempts with one touchdown. As Michel continues to settle
into the offense here in New England, he could be a major factor while complementing
James White, who also had a great game with two touchdowns.
Looking forward, the Patriots have more than a couple things in
their favor. The return of Julian Edelman, aka Slottie Pippen, aka The Flying
Squirrel, is upon us. His presence on the field is game changing.
One last upside to this game was the activation and participation
of Josh Gordon. Although he only had two catches for 32- yards, just seeing him
on the field is a great sign considering his off the field issues for the past
6 years with the Cleveland Browns.
When he is playing he is one of the league’s best talents. As he
continues to learn the playbook and develop a relationship with Brady he very
well could have a 10+ touchdown season. Hopefully Brady’s healthy habits will
rub off on him sooner rather than later.
This being said, after this performance the
Patriots look like they are ready for yet another playoff run. The Patriots
will host Indianapolis Thursday night in Foxboro.