The Dolphins are finally coming back to Miami for a home game – something they have not done since October 25th ,which was almost a month ago. They are taking on a Dallas Cowboy team that has lost 7 straight games, however, that was without star QB Tony Romo, who unluckily for Miami, will be back on the field this upcoming Sunday.
The line for this game opened as a pick-em. Throughout the week, the action has predominantly been wagered on the Cowboys with just over 80% of the action coming in on the Cowboys. As a result, some of the best sportsbooks in the world have moved the line to -1 for the Cowboys. It will be worth noting where the line on game day closes today. Regardless, it should be a pretty tight game that could ultimately come down to possibly the final possession.
The game plan for the Dolphins is simple commit to the run game, and get Miller, Ajayi and even Tannehill involved early and often on the ground, then Miami will be able to move up and down the field at will, and be able to control the clock and keep Tony Romo off the field. When the Dolphins started taking advantage of Ryan Tannehill’s athleticism and legs last season, he was very productive on the ground. The Dolphins have barely even tried to get Tannehill involved in the running game, however, it is never to late, and now is as good a time as any to get him more involved. It is no surprise that even Tannehill vocally said that he would like to run the ball more. The Dolphins would be wise to give at least 20 carries to Miller, 10 carries to Ajayi and 3 carries to Tannehill. Each of these players have the ability to produce big yards on the ground, and Miller in particular has shown that if he can get to the second level he has the ability to outrun any defender to the end zone.
On the Defensive side of the ball, the Dolphins need to make stopping the run a priority. The Cowboys will have Tony Romo back leading the offense, but it is still important to stop Darren McFadden and the Cowboys running game. McFadden has been slowed down in practice with a strained groin injury, however, he is still scheduled to play. Miami must shut him down early in the game, and make him a non-factor. If Miami can shut down the Cowboys running attack, then they can focus on putting pressure on Romo. Romo might be rusty, but he is a very good QB, and he is especially slippery when he is under pressure, Suh and the rest of the Dolphins pass rush must wrap him up when they have the chance, and make sure to take him to the ground. One of his Houdini trick on our defense could lead to the big play which could determine the game.
The Dolphins are basically playing in a playoff game each week, because they practically need to go 5-2 or even 6-1 in the remaining 7 games if they want to actually make the playoffs. However, they need to play one game at a time, and stay focused and fight for every yard because this Cowboys game has the chance to be decided by a play or two. I think if the Dolphins can play more physical than the Cowboys than they will be able to control the trenches, and sneak away with a victory. What does the rest of the Miami Dolphins fans think about the Dolphins chances of coming away with a victory against the Dallas Cowboys?