Four keys for the Dolphins against the Bengals

For me, this game starts and ends up front. This is a huge game for Miami’s interior offensive line. If they can handle Cincinnati’s front four, I think Malik will have opportunities. These are my four keys to giving Miami a chance to get its first win.

1. Win against the four-man rush

The Bengals do not have to blitz much to get pressure. Dexter Lawrence is a big problem inside, but Jonathan Allen is a good player, too. You cannot forget him or Boye Mafe because you are worried about Lawrence.

At times, Miami will need two guys on Lawrence. Patrick Paul and the other tackle have to handle their matchups one-on-one. You cannot help everybody. Aaron Brewer, Kadyn Proctor and Jonah Savaiinaea have a big assignment, and I want to see Proctor hold his own against Lawrence. That would tell me a lot about the rookie.

Pass off the stunts and keep the pocket clean inside. If Miami’s five can block their four, more guys can get out into routes. I think Malik Willis could have his best passing game this week, but it starts with that protection.

2. Do not wake up their running game

Cincinnati has averaged 3.6 yards per carry through four games. They have struggled running the football. Keep it that way. I do not want this to be the game Chase Brown gets going.

Jordan Phillips has to hold the middle. Zach Sieler needs to be disruptive without getting out of his gap, and having Kenneth Grant available would help. Keep Jordyn Brooks and Jacob Rodriguez clean so they can come downhill and tackle.

Burrow is going to get his. But make him carry the offense. I would test the left side of his protection and mix in stunts inside. Get pressure without giving him an easy lane to step up and escape.

3. Keep Malik out of third-and-long

I want Miami to stay with Ollie Gordon and run downhill. That is his game. A couple of short gains cannot be the reason you get away from him. Get Malik some quick completions, too. On third-and-4, if nobody is open and there is room to run, take off. Get the first down instead of holding it until it becomes a sack.

Let Malik Washington find the soft spots against that zone defense. He has been good after the catch, so get him the football with room to make somebody miss. Move Chris Bell around, too. Then finish with touchdowns. We keep talking about it: You need more than three points after doing all that work.

4. Win the turnover and field-position battle

Cover kicks and punts, protect the football and stop giving Burrow short fields. Brooks and Rodriguez need their depth in coverage because he can move them with his eyes and throw behind them. I think Rodriguez could get his second interception here. If that opportunity comes, finish the play and get the football back.

I want to see Miami finish one. Stop wiping out good plays with penalties and giving away field position. Give yourself a chance, then take advantage of it.

For more on these matchups and my final prediction, watch our full Dolphins vs. Bengals preview below.