Cote's Take: Ugly Dolphins Win in New England, But Don't Get Carried Away
The Miami Dolphins pulled off a gritty, hard-fought victory over the New England Patriots on Sunday, but let's not get carried away. This wasn't a statement win, not by a long shot.
A Game of Grit, Not Grace
The Dolphins' 20-7 victory was far from a thing of beauty. Both teams struggled offensively, with the Dolphins looking particularly sloppy at times. Turnovers plagued the game, and the defense – while ultimately victorious – wasn't dominant.
The takeaway? This game was won on grit, determination, and a whole lot of luck.
The Dolphins' Defense Shines, But...
The Dolphins' defense was the clear star of the show. They were relentless, forcing turnovers and keeping the Patriots' offense in check. However, it's important to remember that the Patriots are still finding their footing with a new quarterback and a young offensive line.
This is not the same Patriots team that we've seen for the past decade. So while the Dolphins' defensive performance was impressive, it's too early to call them the "new kings of the AFC East."
Tua Tagovailoa's Struggles Continue
While the Dolphins' defense played well, the offense remained a frustrating watch. Tua Tagovailoa struggled to find his rhythm, throwing two interceptions and looking shaky throughout the game.
This is a major concern for the Dolphins. While the team has the talent on offense to be successful, Tagovailoa needs to elevate his play if they want to truly compete.
A Crucial Win, But Not a Guarantee
This victory is undoubtedly a positive step for the Dolphins. It shows they can win close games on the road against a division rival. However, it's important to temper expectations.
The Dolphins still have a lot of work to do. They need to improve their offensive consistency and their special teams play. Only then can they truly establish themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the AFC East.
This win is a good start, but it's just that – a start.
