NFL Opening Week: Predicting All 16 Games As Pro Football Returns
New England Patriots @ Miami Dolphins 1 PM CBS
Aug 22, 2014; Foxborough, MA, USA; New England Patriots quarterback Tom Brady (12) drops back to pass against the Carolina Panthers during the second quarter at Gillette Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Stew Milne-USA TODAY Sports
The match-up The Patriots are coming off of a 12-4 season and loss in the AFC Championship game to Denver. Tom Brady worked his magic again throwing for 4,343 yards and 25 touchdowns. They will miss Aqib Talib who recorded four interceptions in his first four games of last season. Tasked with taking his place is arguably the best cornerback in the NFL, Darrelle Revis [344 combined tackes and 21 interceptions in seven seasons]. The Dolphins got its first new general manager since 2007 in Dennis Hickey. Hickey’s first ever draft selection was Ja-Wuan James of Tennessee. If you’re looking for someone staying on the field, this offensive lineman set a Volunteers record with 49 consecutive starts. Hickey also signed Knowshon Moreno to a one year contract to be the team’s starting running back. Last season with Denver, Moreno had 1,038 yards and 10 touchdowns, both career highs.
Why New England will win: With the loss of Wes Welker prior to the 2013 season, Brady spread the football around more than ever before. Julian Edelman was the main beneficiary with 105 receptions, 1,056 yards and six touchdowns. Now though, Rob Gronkowski is back and he says that he is ready for week one. If Gronkowski truly is healthy, then the Patriots will be a dangerous team once again.
Why Miami will win: Ryan Tannehill needs to continue showing growth. In 2013, he threw 24 touchdowns and 17 interceptions as opposed to 12 touchdowns and 13 interceptions in 2012. I really thought the signing of wide receiver Mike Wallace would help him but the Wallace only had 930 receiving yards. It is Brian Hartline who had the breakout season last year with 76 receptions and 1,016 receiving yards. In short, Tannehill needs to show the Dolphins why he was drafted eighth overall in 2012. I personally have yet to see it.
Final score: Patriots 45 Dolphins 20