The New England Patriots are back at Gillette Stadium this Sunday for a much-anticipated face-off against the Miami Dolphins, marking the first of two meetings this season between these fierce AFC East rivals. After two tough weeks on the road, the Patriots (1-3) aim to shake off their sluggish start against a Dolphins team that’s also struggling, also sitting at 1-3.
This Sunday’s showdown will be pivotal for both teams as they desperately seek to reverse their fortunes. The Patriots are coming off a disheartening 30-13 defeat to the San Francisco 49ers, while the Dolphins limped home after a 31-12 loss to the Tennessee Titans on Monday Night Football. Both teams enter the contest with three consecutive losses and are hungry for a win to regain some momentum.
Series History: Dolphins Lead, But Patriots Dominate at Home
Historically, the Patriots have held an edge over the Dolphins at home, leading the series 38-20, including an impressive 17-5 record at Gillette Stadium. However, Miami secured a series sweep last season, handing New England a 24-17 loss at Gillette and a 31-17 defeat in Miami.
Dating back to their first meeting in 1966, the rivalry has featured thrilling contests, including three postseason matchups, where New England leads 2-1. With the teams set to clash again in Miami on November 24, the stakes are high for this initial encounter.
Quarterback Situation: Patriots Stick with Brissett, Dolphins Turn to Huntley
Despite their rocky performance, Patriots head coach Jerod Mayo remains committed to quarterback Jacoby Brissett, who has faced relentless pressure behind a beleaguered offensive line that has allowed 17 sacks this season—the second-most in the NFL. Mayo praised Brissett’s toughness, saying, “Jacoby has shown a lot of resilience. He’s taken some hard hits but keeps getting back up.”
Brissett’s challenges are compounded by the loss of center David Andrews, New England’s best offensive lineman, who will miss the rest of the season due to shoulder surgery.
On the other side, the Dolphins will turn to Tyler Huntley as he continues to fill in for Tua Tagovailoa, who is on injured reserve following a concussion. Huntley’s performance has been shaky at best, throwing for just 96 yards in the recent loss to the Titans and struggling to connect with star receiver Tyreek Hill, who expressed his frustration during the game.
A Crucial Game for Two Struggling Teams
As both teams prepare for this critical matchup, the narrative of the game is clear: each squad is desperate to stop the bleeding. For the Patriots, this is a chance to secure their first home victory since last October. For the Dolphins, it’s an opportunity to stave off further disappointment and get back on track.
Kickoff at Gillette Stadium is set for Sunday, and with both teams eyeing a much-needed victory, fans can expect a fierce battle on the gridiron.
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