The Miami Dolphins are poised to face the Cleveland Browns in Week 7 as they look for their first away victory this season. The matchup will take place at Huntington Bank Field, where Miami last secured a road win in December 2022.
Game Preview: Miami Dolphins vs. Cleveland Browns
Weather Conditions
Players may contend with challenging weather in Cleveland, including high winds and heavy rain. These conditions could impact the passing game, making the running game critical for both teams.
Dolphins’ Running Game
- De’Von Achane will be a key player for Miami. Recently, he recorded 128 rushing yards and two touchdowns against the Los Angeles Chargers.
- Achane has now scored a total of 29 touchdowns in his career, highlighting his importance to the team.
- Head Coach Kevin Stefanski praised Achane’s versatility and speed, emphasizing defensive challenges he poses.
Accompanying Achane is second-year left tackle Patrick Paul, who is experiencing a breakout season. Paul ranks among the top five tackles in the NFL for pass block win rate and average time-to-pressure. This week, he faces Myles Garrett, a former Defensive Player of the Year who has averaged 15 sacks over the last four seasons and currently has four sacks in six games.
Paul expressed eagerness about facing Garrett, acknowledging his formidable skills.
Adapting Offense
This season, Miami has incorporated larger personnel groupings, particularly due to the absence of wide receiver Tyreek Hill. The Dolphins have deployed more two-back and two-tight-end sets than in previous years, enhancing both their running game and play-action strategies.
Browns’ Offensive Strategy
- Cleveland’s offense is led by rookie running back Quinshon Judkins, who has accumulated 383 rushing yards and two touchdowns this season.
- Judkins holds a 50% success rate on carries, which ranks 13th among NFL running backs.
Rookie quarterback Dillon Gabriel will make his third start for the Browns. Despite an 0-2 record in his starts, Gabriel remains turnover-free after 89 passing attempts.
Historic Matchup
This game presents a unique historical moment, marking the first time since 2006 that two left-handed quarterbacks will face off in an NFL regular-season game. Both Gabriel and Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa hail from Honolulu, further adding a personal connection to the matchup.
Tagovailoa reflected on his familiarity with Gabriel, noting the support for fellow players from their home state.
For fans, check the Injury Report and the official social media accounts of both teams for updates before kickoff. The Dolphins will compete against the Browns on Sunday, October 19, at 1:00 p.m. ET, broadcast live on CBS. Tune in to the Dolphins Radio Network for additional coverage.
