Officially, it’s Week 2.
Unofficially, this is take two.
The Patriots stumbled at the start of the Mike Vrabel era last week, dropping a winnable game to the Raiders at home as favorites. Now, they’re headed to Miami, historically a house of horrors, with the goal of winning as a slight underdog.
The Dolphins got hammered, 33-8, last Sunday in Indianapolis. Running back De’Von Achane only scored after the Colts had mounted a 30-point lead on the back of aggressive defense and a ball-control approach on offense. The Patriots, who blitzed at a 42.5% clip versus Las Vegas, are poised to put more heat on Tua Tagovailoa.
But can they control the clock like Indianapolis did on offense? And if not, how else might they win?
Here’s what to watch for Sunday:
For a second straight season opener