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Patriots Gameplan: Self-scouting the Pats through seven games and prepping for the Dolphins in Week 8

With the team coming off a mini bye week, where do things stand for the Patriots seven weeks into the season?

By Evan Lazar · Patriots

Published: Thursday, 29 October 2026 at 3:19 PM

Key Things to Know

Evan Lazar analyzes the Patriots' self-scouting process through seven games ahead of their Week 8 matchup against the Dolphins.
Quarterback Drake Maye leads the NFL in EPA per drop-back since Week 4 despite New England's running game ranking 27th in rush EPA.
The Patriots defense ranks 30th in drop-back EPA in zone coverage heading into Sunday's game.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The New England Patriots are using their mini bye week to self-scout their 4-3 start before traveling to face the Miami Dolphins in Week 8. Evan Lazar highlights that while quarterback Drake Maye has excelled, leading the NFL in EPA per drop-back since Week 4, head coach Mike Vrabel's team must address under-center running struggles and defensive zone coverage deficiencies.

Looking ahead to Miami, Lazar argues the Patriots must exploit a mistake-prone Dolphins pass defense that ranks near the bottom of the league under head coach Jeff Hafley. Defensively, New England will face an improving Dolphins offense directed by coordinator Bobby Slowik and dual-threat quarterback Malik Willis.

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Patriots Gameplan: Self-scouting the Pats through seven games and prepping for the Dolphins in Week 8

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