Dolphins and Pats are a lot more alike than you’d think

By Adam Sweeney  |   Tuesday, November 18, 2008  |  Comments( 3 )

Miami Dolphins
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While many people will argue that the Dolphins and Patriots are far different, the truth is that the numbers show an amazing amount of similarities between the two. It's fitting as the two AFC East rivals, both 6-4, prepare to face off for the second time this season.

Commentary: The teams' quarterbacks, Matt Cassel of the Pats and Chad Pennington of the Dolphins, are very much alike. This season, both have surprised fans with their ability to carry a team to victory. Then there is the fact that both head coaches, Tony Sparano and Bill Belichick, are Bill Parcells disciples. But the comparisons don't stop there. Both teams are 6-4 and trying to get an inside track on the road to the playoffs. Both are 4-2 at home and 2-2 on the road. Even their offensive and defensive scoring efforts are nearly dead even. The Pats have scored 219 points to Miami's 209 and New England has given up 194 points to the 197 surrendered by the Dolphins.

Look for a dogfight this weekend for Miami, which surely won't shock the Patriots again en route to another 38-14 victory. Since that Week 3 stunner, the Tom Brady-less Patriots have rebounded well under the leadership of Cassel.

Fan Pulse: Playoff chatter has begun in Miami, but some Phins fans think it is a bit too soon.

Fantasy Football Commentary: Ted Ginn Jr. is doing a fine job of shutting up skeptics. Ginn had 93 yards and a touchdown on offense in Week 11 against Oakland, and he now has reached double digits in fantasy scoring for standard formats in three of the last four weeks.

Injury Watch: Pennington, whose foot has bothered him of late, should once again be good to go.
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About Adam Sweeney

Adam Sweeney spent 4 years as an opinions and arts & entertainment columnist with the Lone Star Lutheran, also working with Sports Illustrated.com. Along with his work on Realfootball 365 he currently is a contributor for Film School Rejects, SLAM Online, Talkhoops.net, and C-Heads Magazine.
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CommentsComments: 3  |  Sign Up  View all comments
No.1
norinradd		11:03 AM
11/18/2008
Not sure that Pennington's ability to lead his team to victory is a surprise. He's been a good starting quarterback for years...
No.2
JimmyD		12:36 PM
11/18/2008
I like Miami's chances if they can run the football and keep Moss from breaking fee. The play of the secondary will be the key to...
No.3
bobbysippio		01:03 PM
11/18/2008
I have a feeling that the Patriots will key on stopping Ronnnie and Ricky and the wildcat in general. Hopefully that will open...
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