Week Eight Preview: Dolphins at Patriots

The Miami Dolphins and interim head coach Dan Campbell will look for a third straight win on Thursday against the New England Patriots.

In his first two games since taking over the team, Campbell has seen his team dominate at times and win both contests. Going into the half last week, Miami held a 41-0 lead which set a franchise record for points in a half. The game ended up much closer than that, but it was still a win that was never in danger.

Those wins for Campbell came against teams with losing records. The first game came against the Tennessee Titans and then the next vs. the Houston Texans. With those wins, the Dolphins find themselves at 3-3 and sit in third place in the AFC East.

Skeptics will point to the fact that Miami hasn't shown it can beat a true contender. The Patriots could be on their way to another Super Bowl championship and represent a test for the Dolphins. It is important that Campbell's team shows the same level of intensity in this game as it has in recent weeks. To have a chance at winning this game, Miami will need another strong effort from its quarterback as well as its defense.

Ryan Tannehill did all he could in Miami's last win with a near-perfect day. The QB was 18-19 and set a record by completing his first 18 attempts. Tannehill also didn't throw any interceptions which is what he'll need to do in New England as well. Going into the game the Patriots have an edge, and the last thing the Dolphins should do is give them extra chances.

Defensively the Dolphins saw the biggest game thus far by Ndamukong Suh in the win over Houston. Suh completed two sacks and was very involved in the defensive game. If Suh can get to Tom Brady a couple of times, it can change the entire game. Brady is one of the best in the game when he is given time and Miami needs to rush him as much as possible.

There are currently five undefeated teams in the NFL including the Patriots. Besides this being an important potential win for this season, it also helps the franchise historically. The 1972 Dolphins still remain the only team to ever complete a perfect year. Knocking off New England in this one will take one potential threat to that record off the board.