Patriots vs. Dolphins: 6 Bold Predictions

Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports

To help pass the time until kickoff between the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins tonight, take a look at these six bold predictions for the AFC East showdown.

6. Patriots will sack Ryan Tannehill seven times

This bold prediction may seem a bit far-fetched at first, but the Patriots registered seven sacks of Tyrod Taylor back in Week 2, so the potential is there for the front seven to have another field day. The Pats rank fourth in the NFL with 21 total sacks, even with the early Week 4 bye. This is quietly becoming one of the most lethal front sevens in the entire NFL, although the mainstream media doesn’t give them enough credit.

The Pats boast three pass rushers with at least four sacks; Jabaal Sheard (4.0), Jamie Collins (4.5) and Chandler Jones (6.5). Even though Sheard has been ruled out for the second straight week, the Patriots will still have success rushing against a Miami offensive line that has surrendered 16 sacks in six games. Rob Ninkovich will get an uptick in playing time as a result of Sheard being sidelined, so there won’t be much of a drop-off.

Next: 5. Jonas Gray will out-gain Lamar Miller