The Miami Dolphins have a chance to even their record at 3-3 on Sunday, and keep pace (although it’s early) in both the AFC East and Wild Card races.  The Dolphins have played better than most people expected before the year started. They’ve been rushing the ball effectively, getting solid play out of their rookie quarterback, and playing very good defense.

On the Sunday, the Dolphins welcome in the St. Louis Rams who are also surprising people this year.  The Rams are 3-0 at home this season, but 0-2 on the road.  The Dolphins hope to get back to the .500 mark before their bye comes next week.  The Dolphins are not taking the Rams lightly and will need to give a solid effort to pick up another win.  Here is a look at the Dolphins gameplan for this week (at least, what we think it should be):

Pressure Sam Bradford

The Rams passing offense ranks 30th in the NFL, averaging just 183 yards per game through the air. Sam Bradford has struggled at times this year, mostly because his offensive line is among the leagues worst. The Rams have allowed 15 sacks, which is tied for 3rd worst in the NFL.  The Rams offensive line is so bad that they are starting Wayne Hunter.  You remember Wayne Hunter, right?  He’s the former Jets right tackle that makes Marc Colombo look like Richmond Webb.  The worst part is that the other Rams linemen aren’t much better.  Cameron Wake, Jared Odrick, and Olivier Vernon should have a field day teeing off on this line.

The Dolphins still own the top defense against the run in the NFL, allowing an average of 61 yards per game.  The Dolphins must shut down the Rams rushing attack so they can force 3rd and long situations.  If the Dolphins can do this, they can rush the Sam Bradford and make him uncomfortable in the pocket. The Dolphins MUST harass Bradford and force him to beat them.

Protect the Football

The Dolphins turned the ball over twice last week in Cincinnati. However, they were able to overcome those turnovers because the Dolphins defense limited the Bengals to field goals immediately after the turnovers were committed.  Ryan Tannehill did a great job of protecting the football last week and is getting better each week he’s on the field.  Tannehill must continue to make good decisions and the Dolphins ballcarriers must secure the football.  (cont’d on page 2, click below)