Crucial matchups for Miami against Buffalo

By Darrell Laurant  |   Thursday, November 08, 2007  |  Comments( 3 )

Miami Dolphins
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In the words of Paul Simon, this NFL season keeps slip-sliding away for the Miami Dolphins.

Thanks to injuries, poor luck and just plain bad play, the Dolphins enter Sunday's game with Buffalo 0-8 and significant underdogs.

Not that the 4-4 Bills are exactly a juggernaut. Buffalo started out 1-4 before turning its season around somewhat, while quarterbacks J.P. Losman and rookie Trent Edwards have flip-flopped more than an election year politician.

In other words, it's not inconceivable that Miami, playing at home, could finally break through this weekend. But here are some of the matchups that need to go the Dolphins' way ...

1. Miami DE Jason Taylor versus Buffalo LT Jason Peters. Taylor is Miami's only consistent pass rusher, leading the team with four sacks, and he'll have quickness on his side when dealing with the 340-pound Peters.

2. Miami's linebackers versus Buffalo RB Marshawn Lynch. Although just a rookie, Lynch is one of those rare backs who is dangerous in the no-man's land between the line of scrimmage and the secondary. Zach Thomas, injured in a car accident a couple of weeks ago, is still experiencing migraine headaches and may not play Sunday. Whoever backs up the line, however, is going to have to make sure and certain tackles to keep Lynch from leaking into the secondary and picking up even more yards.

3. Miami's cornerbacks (Will Allen, Michael Lehan, Andre Goodman) versus Buffalo wide receivers Lee Evans and Roscoe Parrish. Those are the guys who stretch the field for Buffalo, and Miami's cover guys will need to keep them from "going vertical" on them. Parrish may not play, however, as he has been hampered by a thigh contusion.

4. Miami's special teams versus Parrish and Terrence McGee. This is a real cause for concern. McGee has averaged 28.5 on kickoff returns, including a touchdown. Parrish has a remarkable punt return average of 19.2, also with the touchdown. If these two maintain those averages, it will be difficult for Miami to win.

Of course, it's been difficult all season.
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