The New England Patriots are looking for their third AFC East win, and the league just threw a curveball into their Week 8 matchup against the Miami Dolphins. The NFL changed the officiating crew, pulling the “flag-happy” Alex Moore off prime-time duties and sending him and his crew straight to Miami. This comes right after Moore’s crew was involved in multiple controversial calls during the Packers-Lions game last week, and now the Pats-Fins game takes the fallout. Seriously, can these guys catch a break?
Maye’s Magic and a TE Party
Forget what you thought about the Patriots’ offense, because third-year QB Drake Maye is putting in work. Colby Shannon reviewed Maye’s October performance, and he was “stellar.” Head coach Josh McDaniels isn’t shy about what he likes, praising Maye’s “tremendous approach.” And get this, Maye’s “superpower” is the scramble drill, according to Evan Lazar. The guy makes magic happen when plays break down. It’s a skill the Patriots are actively working to capitalize on.
And who is Maye connecting with? The tight ends, big time! Ethan Hurwitz highlighted Maye’s “great connection” with his TEs, and it looks like a “TE party” might be incoming. Doug Kyed even noted the Patriots have been looking for a rookie tight end like Eli Raridon for years. Raridon already completed a catch against the Raiders back on October 11, and he’s showing why he could be a huge piece of this offense. With Maye slinging it and the TEs stepping up, this attack could be a problem for Miami.
Defense Back in Form, But What About Miami’s Attack?
On the defensive side, Christian Barmore is finally back to his old self after a “nightmare blood clot setback.” That’s massive news for the Patriots, getting a key piece of their defense performing at a high level again. However, tackling is a major key to the game, and the Patriots need to show “improved tackling” against Miami. They also need to play a “clean game” and can’t afford “any Miami shenanigans.”
Why the concern? Don’t let Miami’s 1-5 record fool you, folks. Meghan Ottolini warned the Patriots not to overlook them, because the Dolphins boast a “red-hot rushing attack.” The defense has to be ready to shut that down and prove Barmore’s return is the spark they need. Plus, there’s chatter about A.J. Brown’s status being “up in the air” after a new knee ailment, with him missing practice Thursday. That could be a factor in this game, depending on if he plays.
The Patriots are self-scouting through their first seven games and prepping for this Week 8 battle. With the trade deadline looming, there’s even talk about targeting two worthy players, and a Jonathon Taylor trade is “impending.” There’s a lot going on behind the scenes, but for Sunday, it’s all about Miami. Can the Patriots right their wrongs, tackle better, and keep Drake Maye’s offense cooking? Get ready, because Sunday’s going to be a wild one.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pats Pulpit.
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