Rob Grabowski-US PRESSWIRE
On paper, the Miami Dolphins and St. Louis Rams week six tilt looks like a defensive struggle for sure. Both teams really lack offensive firepower, both like to run the ball, and both pride themselves on playing top notch defense snap after snap. Still they play the games on grass (or turf), not paper, so here are some keys that will likely decide this contest on Sunday.
ESTABLISH RUNNING GAME
The aerial attack has never really been Head Coach Jeff Fisher’s focus during his coaching career. That is what makes it all the more surprising that the Rams have been unable to really get into any kind of rhythm on the ground this season. When there is balance on offense, things can open up that weren’t really clicking before and the club has a stable of backs to choose from. The Dolphins are the number one team in the league statistically against the run however so remaining dedicated will be vital even if there is only minimal success.
USE TIGHT ENDS
With the Rams clear lack of star power at wide receiver especially now that Danny Amendola is out, the team needs to rely more on tight ends. A consistent tight end can be a quarterback’s best friend and Sam Bradford needs one of those at this point. He did hook up with Lance Kendricks for a touchdown last week so hopefully that good rapport can continue against Miami. The Phins are ranked 27th in the league against the pass which bodes well for getting the passing game on track.
CONTAIN REGGIE BUSH
This has been a real breakout year to this point for Reggie Bush as the Dolphins have allowed him to shoulder most of the load out of the backfield. Bush is 10th in the league in rushing currently, but his 4.8 yards per carry average is quite impressive. Defense has been the Rams’ strong suit thus far and they will need to bottle up Bush if they have any hope of forcing the game into the hands of rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill.
If the Rams are able to formulate a gameplan that can make the Dolphins one-dimensional on offense, they will have a great chance to travel to Miami and get the victory. Preventing themselves from being too run-heavy with the lack of weapons through the air is also a concern so utilizing the short passing game as an extension of the running attack will be key. This one reeks of a defensive standoff so look for a low score, but the Rams have a rookie kicker that is just unconscious currently. Greg Zuerlein will kick a game-winning field goal, 16-13 Rams.
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