The Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots, two AFC East rivals, will clash in Week 5 at Gillette Stadium. Both teams enter with identical 1-3 records, but the similarities end there. The Dolphins are struggling offensively, averaging just 11.3 points per game. Injuries to starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and backup Skylar Thompson have left Miami in a precarious position. They have cycled through quarterbacks, with Tyler Huntley starting in their most recent loss to the Tennessee Titans. Miami’s typically dynamic passing game has been muted, and their running game has been ineffective, producing less than 100 rushing yards per game.

The Patriots, meanwhile, have had their own struggles, but their issues are more centered around execution rather than personnel availability. Mac Jones has been inconsistent, and the team’s offensive line has failed to provide adequate protection, resulting in a lackluster 112.3 passing yards per game. The bright spot for New England has been their rushing attack, which has been more effective, thanks to Rhamondre Stevenson, who leads the team with 267 rushing yards. Defensively, the Dolphins are giving up 25.8 points per game, and their secondary has shown vulnerabilities, especially against teams with deep threats. The Patriots, on the other hand, are allowing 21.8 points per game, but their pass defense has been a major concern, giving up 254 passing yards per game. With both teams struggling to find consistency, this game will likely come down to which side can avoid turnovers and establish a semblance of offensive rhythm early on.