The New England Patriots are set to face the Miami Dolphins on Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium in what is widely considered a key opportunity to secure a needed victory and address ongoing team issues. Despite Miami’s struggles this season, the game is unlikely to be a straightforward win for the Patriots.

The Dolphins, under new coach Jeff Hafley, earned a 28-25 win over the New York Jets last Sunday, marking Hafley’s first victory with the team. While Miami is projected to finish near the bottom of the league standings—possibly contending for the first overall pick in the upcoming draft—the Dolphins have shown resilience and physicality. Quarterback Malik Willis, who completed 14 of 21 passes for 208 yards and two touchdowns while rushing for another score in the win against the Jets, poses a dual-threat challenge.

Historically, the Patriots have struggled to win in Miami. The team holds an 18-43 record in Dolphins territory, including a 14-25 mark specifically at the stadium now known as Hard Rock. The Patriots enter this matchup with a 4-3 record after a recent 30-24 loss to the Chicago Bears, which capped a grueling stretch that tested their depth and consistency.

Injuries continue to affect New England’s offensive potential. Wide receiver A.J. Brown, who has been limited since returning from a high ankle sprain, did not practice Thursday due to a knee issue, leaving his status uncertain. Brown had been targeted heavily in attempts to regain his form against Miami’s 19th-ranked pass defense. Running back TreVeyon Henderson also missed practice due to illness; he has struggled to produce this season, tallying just 203 yards and one touchdown amid injury setbacks.

Defensively, tackling has been an area of concern. Against the Bears, the Patriots missed 17 tackles, including several crucial plays that allowed the opposition to extend drives. Linebacker Christian Elliss led the team with 13 tackles but was among those who struggled to contain key plays, highlighting a need for improvement in fundamental defense.

One area showing promise is the Patriots’ tight end group, especially rookie Eli Raridon. With receivers Mack Hollins and Romeo Doubs sidelined, offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels has increased reliance on multiple-tight-end sets. Raridon caught three passes for 56 yards and a touchdown against the Bears and continues to emerge as a reliable offensive weapon alongside veteran Hunter Henry.

For Miami, running back Ollie Gordon has been a bright spot since the injury to De’Von Achane. Gordon has recorded 291 yards and three rushing touchdowns over the past three games, including scoring in each of Miami’s last four contests. His ability to exploit missed tackles could pose a threat to the Patriots’ defense.

Quarterback Drake Maye has shown significant improvement in recent weeks, though inconsistencies remain, including costly interceptions in critical moments. As the Patriots prepare to face a feisty Dolphins squad, the expectation is for a competitive but ultimately favorable outcome for New England.

While not expected to be flawless, the Patriots aim to end the game with a win on the board.

Final projection: Patriots 30, Dolphins 20.