Four keys for the Dolphins against the Vikings

For me, Miami cannot let Brian Flores get them out of their game. The pressure is coming, but there are opportunities against it. Stay with the run, give Malik Willis answers and make Minnesota pay when it leaves an opening.

1. Run downhill and win first down

I look at this like attacking a shot blocker. Go right at him. Make that aggressive defense deal with your running game instead of letting it put you in third-and-long all afternoon.

I would test first-round pick Caleb Banks. He has not gotten off to a great start, and Miami needs to make him hold up inside. Run straight at them with inside zone and power concepts. I think that fits Ollie Gordon better. Give him a clear read, get behind Kadyn Proctor and let him get downhill. Stay with it, even if the first few carries only get a couple of yards. You might pop a big run and force Flores to change what he is doing, but you have to make them defend it consistently.

2. Handle the blitz and make Flores pay

Miami has to get the protection right against Flores’ pressure. Aaron Brewer, the guards, Malik and the backs have to agree on who they are picking up and where Malik’s quick answer is. You cannot have a free rusher because two guys had different ideas. When Minnesota runs stunts, pass them off cleanly.

Find Josh Metellus and Andrew Van Ginkel, then watch what they do after the snap. Showing blitz does not mean they are coming. I want Greg Dulcich involved underneath and the receivers spread out to create room. Take the quick completion. If the running lane opens, use your legs. When the pressure leaves an opportunity downfield, set your feet and hit it.

3. Stop the run and keep Kyler contained

Zach Sieler and Jordan Phillips have to hold their ground and keep Jordyn Brooks and Jacob Rodriguez clean so they can attack downhill. Against outside zone, stay with your assignment and do not leave the cutback open.

Minnesota is strong at tackle with Christian Darrisaw and Brian O’Neill. I would move Chop Robinson around and mix in some A- and B-gap pressure. But keep Kyler Murray contained. Getting pressure does nothing if he escapes for a first down. When he moves, the secondary has to stay with its receivers.

4. Win the turnover and field-position battle

Protect the football and win the turnover battle. I want Miami creating a takeaway that gives Malik another possession, especially against a defense that makes sustaining drives difficult.

Cover kicks and punts, flip the field and do not give Minnesota an easy scoring opportunity. Then take advantage when Miami gets a shorter field. No penalty or unnecessary sack in the red zone. Turn that extra possession into a touchdown.

Give yourself a chance late, then finish the game.

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