By Cyrus (@Cyruslassus on Twitter)

The New England Patriots have won 10 straight season openers.  That is the third best mark in league history, behind the Dallas Cowboys (17, 1965-1982) and the Miami Dolphins (11, 1992-2002).  They also have spanked the AFC East since 2001, with a 63-17 record and a .788 winning percentage.

Photo Courtesy of Dolphins.com

In more recent upsetting news they claimed safety Don Jones and added Marcus Thigpen to their practice squad in anticipation for this critical first week matchup between the dominant team in the division and their strongest challenger, the Miami Dolphins.

The Patriots have not only picked up two special team standouts, but they have also gained two experts on what the new look Miami Dolphins will be looking to do this year in order to take this game and make a serious run at the division title.

Miami has played the Patriots well over the years even if the results have tended to be one sided.  They are 10-18 against the Belichick led Patriots.

Last year, Miami was a bonafide thorn in their side holding what seemed to be a commanding half time lead in New England before eventually blowing that game, only to respond with a statement win in the home match that allowed fans to dream of the playoffs and even a 10 win season.

The disappointing and embarrassing losses to the Buffalo Bills and New York Jets last season has led to a fair share of roster turnover along with a new general manager and offensive coordinator.

So far, things look good, but will it be good enough in this potential AFC championship game preview?

As ridiculous as that previous statement may sound, I have these Miami Dolphins as a serious dark horse to not only make the playoffs, but to do some damage once they get in.  I do not see last year’s performance against the best teams in the AFC as a fluke, but rather as a sign of things to come.

The Patriots are rightfully favorites heading into this matchup because they are still very much in dynasty mode with Tom Brady showing no signs of slowing down as far as I can tell. (continued on page 2, CLICK HERE)