The Miami Dolphins are halfway through a two-game road trip to begin the 2023 NFL season, and next up is a divisional battle with the New England Patriots. Two road wins against AFC opponents could help the Dolphins create some early-season separation in the standings. Nothing is ever that simple when coach Bill Belichick and the Patriots are involved.

However, this isn't your parent's Patriots team led by Tom Brady and Miami quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is undefeated when facing New England. After throwing for more than 400 yards last week, will coach Mike McDaniel decide to take to the air or lean more on Raheem Mostert and the rushing attack?

Teams expect to be healthy early in the season, but that's not the case for the Patriots. Two of the team's linemen missed two days of practice with a concussion, and cornerback Jonathan Jones, who was not on the injury report Wednesday, was not seen at training on Friday. While coach McDaniel said he wants to run the football more, it could be bombs away against a weakened New England secondary.

Another Dolphins Podcast is hosted by Joshua Houtz (@Houtz) and Jake Mendel (@JMendel94).

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