Dolphins should beat the Panthers

By Hugo Guzman  |   Wednesday, September 21, 2005  |  Comments( 0 )

Miami Dolphins
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The Miami Dolphins should beat the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. That's right, I said it!

Never mind the fact that the Miami Dolphins are 2-0 all-time against the Panthers. Never mind the fact that the Panthers are coming off an emotional home win against the World Champion Patriots. The Dolphins are built to beat a team like the Panthers. Here's why:

1)Stopping Steven Davis and the Carolina Panthers running attack - The Dolphins look like they've gone back to their old ways as far as shutting down the run. Keith Traylor has done an admirable job of filling the void left by Tim Bowens. Channing Crowder has young fresh legs and an assassin's attitude when it comes to killing the run. Vonnie Holiday and Kevin Carter have added bulk and experience to the defensive line. Lastly, Zach Thomas, Jason Taylor, and Junior Seau are still getting things done as they approach the twilights of their respective careers.

2)Keeping WR Steve Smith in check - This one is simple. If Sam Madison is on his game Smith won't do much. If Madison is anything less, we might be in a bit of trouble.

3)Forcing Jake Delhomme to make mistakes in the passing game. Jason Taylor is due for a multiple sack game. He usually doesn't go more than three games without one. Shutting down the Panthers running attack will allow the Dolphins to tee off on 3rd and long.

4)Scoring more than 20 points - The Panthers have scored 20 points or more in consecutive weeks. While the Dolphins defense maybe able to hold them to less than that, it is imperative that we put up at two touchdowns and a couple of field goals. Chris Chambers will need to step up, and I believe that he will. He hasn't had a big receiving day yet, so Sunday could be the day for him to post one of his multiple touchdown performances. Also, Randy McMichael is usually good for at least one trip to the endzone. Let's hope that the place-kicking unit has worked out the kinks that doomed our lone field goal attempt last week.

5)Home field advantage - With the exception of last year, the Dolphins are nearly unbeatable at home in September.
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About Hugo Guzman

Trying to bring an objective approach to NFL analysis.
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