MIAMI GARDENS — A rematch from last season might not be on the Miami Dolphins’ minds as they travel to Los Angeles for Sunday’s 4:25 p.m. season opener at the Chargers, but it’s part of the storyline.
So, too, is the jam-packed AFC. Although this is the first game of the season its outcome could play a role in a playoff tiebreaker in January.
The Chargers defeated the Dolphins, 23-17, last season, the second loss of a five-game losing streak that almost derailed the Dolphins’ playoff berth.
But this is a new season with new personnel, and the Dolphins, in their second season under coach Mike McDaniel, have lots of optimism. And so do the Chargers.
Here are five things to watch in this matchup between two prospective AFC playoff teams:
Dolphins’ Mike McDaniel vs. Chargers’ Brandon Staley
Staley won this matchup last season by jamming Dolphins wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle at the line of scrimmage and also taking away the middle of the field, where quarterback Tua Tagovailoa thrives. Look for McDaniel to use screen passes to open up some options. Perhaps he’ll even run the ball more.
Also, the Dolphins now have Renaldo Hill, who served as the Chargers’ defensive coordinator last season. McDaniel must also watch things such as challenges (he was 1 of 6 last season), penalties (Dolphins were tied for fourth in penalties), and getting the offensive plays to the huddle in a timely fashion.
Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa vs. Chargers’ Justin Herbert
This only matters because the Dolphins selected Tagovailoa No. 5 in the 2020 NFL draft, possibly missing out on Herbert, who went No. 6 to the Chargers. Neither has won a playoff game but Herbert might get a slight career edge because he’s been healthier. The Dolphins offense under Tagovailoa struggled in training camp practices against the Dolphins defense but did well in preseason games.
For the record, Tagovailoa has 52 touchdowns, 23 interceptions and a 95.0 passer rating in 36 games with 34 starts. Herbert has 94 touchdowns and 35 interceptions and a 96.2 passer rating in 49 games, all starts.
Dolphins’ Austin Jackson vs. Chargers’ Joey Bosa
It’s no exaggeration to say this matchup could decide the game. Bosa, the four-time Pro Bowl selection and local who attended St. Thomas, is that good. A groin injury sidelined him for last year’s game but Bosa, the younger brother of San Francisco edge rusher Nick, and son of former Dolphins linebacker John, only played five games last season. But he had 10.5 sacks in 2021.
Jackson only played two games last season due to ankle injuries and remains unproven. He’ll be protecting Tagovailoa’s blind side so this is a crucial matchup. It’s important to note Jackson could also see time against linebacker Khalil Mack if he switches sides with Bosa. Jackson gets a big test right away this season.
Dolphins WRs vs. Chargers WRs
This isn’t a direct matchup between Hill and Waddle and Chargers wide receivers Keenan Allen and Mike Williams. But it’s a good bet the team whose wide receivers have the most yards wins. And in this matchup, the Dolphins have the speed and Chargers have the size.
Both of these teams have passing offenses led by high-profile quarterbacks. Yes, they can win in other ways but the preferred way for both teams is being led by the passing game and quarterback. By the way, let’s not forget the No. 3 wide receivers, the Dolphins’ Braxton Berrios and Chargers’ rookie Quentin Johnston, the 21st pick of the draft.
Dolphins run game; Dolphins DC Vic Fangio
These things don’t belong together until you consider they’re two of the biggest changes needed from last season. The Dolphins were 31st in rushing attempts and 24th in fourth-down conversions despite having running backs who averaged 4.9 yards per carry (Raheem Mostert) and 4.7 ypc (Jeff Wilson Jr.). McDaniel has vowed to run the ball more this season.
On the other side of the ball Fangio was hired to stabilize an inconsistent defense that finished 15th in the league. Not having All Pro cornerback Jalen Ramsey is a huge loss but among edge rushers Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips, cornerbacks Xavien Howard and Kader Kohou, defensive lineman Christian Wilkins and safety Jevon Holland, Fangio has plenty.
