The Miami Dolphins will begin their 2014 season on Sunday when they host the New England Patriots at Sun Life Stadium.
The game is not an easy assignment for the Dolphins as they look to open the season with a win after closing out 2013 with a pair of tough losses. During the preseason, the Dolphins won three of their four games. As with most preseason games, the first team players did not see the majority of the action.
Something that should be watched closely is the protection given to Ryan Tannehill. For the Dolphins to have success in this game and the season as a whole, it is imperative that the sack totals from 2013 come down. The 58 sacks accumulated against Tannehill in 2013 were a franchise record and also led the National Football League.
During the preseason, Tannehill threw one touchdown pass in limited action. The majority of snaps were taken by backup Matt Moore and Tannehill sat out the entire fourth game. Tannehill is beginning his third year behind center for Miami in what could be a make or break season for him.
The Patriots have been good starters for a decade running now and have come away with victories in their last 10 season opening games. Meanwhile, Miami has only gone 3-7 over those same seasons.
When the Dolphins head into cold weather cities in December as they will this year, it is seen as a disadvantage for the team. The reverse holds true as well however and the Patriots are going to be playing in hot and humid conditions on Sunday. While it may not decide the game, it could help the Dolphins especially down the final stretch of the game.
With new offensive coordinator Bill Lazor calling the shots and an improved line featuring Branden Albert at tackle, Miami will be looking for better results. The Patriots have improved as well however with Darrelle Revis joining the fold at cornerback.
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Sunday's game is scheduled to begin at 1:00 p.m.
