The Miami Dolphins will start the regular season against the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday.
The game which will be played at CenturyLink Field in Seattle, will represent a test for Miami. The stadium is known to be a tough place for road teams and the Seahawks have played well at home in recent years. Due to the noise generated on game days, false start and delay of game penalties are something to be weary of for visiting clubs.
Not only should this be a difficult first game for Miami, but it was also represent the head coaching debut of Adam Gase. After leading four exhibition games in the preseason, Gase will make his first official appearance as a head coach in the NFL. There is a lot of optimism surrounding Gase and he will be the one calling the offensive plays in this one.
Receiving the play calls from Gase will be Ryan Tannehill. Entering his fifth NFL season, Tannehill has lofty expectations. The quarterback is signed to a long-term deal already, but has yet to play a postseason game. The Dolphins believe Tannehill can get them back to the playoffs and a big road win in Seattle would be a terrific start to that goal.
Running the ball in this one will be Arian Foster. After winning the job at running back in the preseason, Foster will attempt to show he is still a Pro Bowl caliber back. Foster missed the end of last season due to an injury and then beat out Jay Ajayi in the preseason for the gig. Ajayi will not be in Seattle for the contest and it remains to be seen who would step in for Foster if needed.
Not only is it important that Miami's offense starts off hot, but it is equally important that the defense does as well. Last year was a disappointment for Miami's defensive unit and that will need to change. Joining Ndamukong Suh on defense is Mario Williams. The two veterans are going to need to step up in Seattle to help keep the ball in Tannehill's hands instead of Russell Wilson's.
Sunday's game will begin at 4:05 p.m.
