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Defence wins matches and consistency is key, says former player Sharif Omar

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Sharif Omar tells us where the Dolphins v Giants match will be won and which rugby stars could cut the mustard in Gridiron

Born in 1977 Sharif Omar could name Jerry Rice, Walter Payton and Joe Montana among his sporting role models and spent years playing American Football across Europe. His teams included Eidsvoll in Norway; Granollers in Barcelona; Basel in Switzerland and Birmingham Bulls in the UK. He played with ex-NFL and top US College players in addition to working as Head coach of American Football at Royal Holloway University, London.

As the Miami Dolphins and New York Giants prepare to do battle at Wembley Sharif will be among the sell-out crowd. For anyone new to the sport here are a few pointers...

People always talk about the quarter-backs and wide receivers but who are the unsung heroes of the game?

"Definitely offensive linemen: If the offensive line don't block well then even the greatest running back in the world will not make consistent yards. If they don't block well the quarterback has no space or time to make the glamour throws.

"They're the foundation of the team's offensive attack and don't receive enough credit. Highlight reels show receivers making amazing catches but they don't show you the important blocks which enabled the play to be a success.

The match is being played in London. How much of an influence will this have of the game and will it favour one of the two sides?

"It's a positive thing that the game's in London but past London fixtures were pre-season or exhibition games, so many top stars were rested. Because this is a regular season game, the intensity will be high but the crowd will be mostly neutral which will be a new experience for the players.

"Both teams should be motivated to impress in a foreign country especially since it's the first competitive, regular season game outside of North America."

What are the chances of more games being staged in London in the future?

"It's very likely because they're trying to raise the profile of the NFL abroad. The first competitive game outside of the US was in Mexico last year.
"There's been talk for a while on holding more games outside the USA. Nothing has been finalised yet but if this game is a success, (commercially and from an entertainment perspective), there are plans in place to play more competitive fixtures outside America."

Who is the form team going into this one?

"Definitely New York. The Giants had a rough start to the season but now they're lighting up the NFC East Division. They've won the last five in a row and are second in their division at 5-2 while the Dolphins haven't won all season and are 0-7."

Where will the match be won and lost?

"Special teams will be a big factor as good field position is key to a team's success. The further into an opponent's half a team can return the ball, the better odds they will have of scoring and, on the flip side, when a team is punting or kicking off, the further back they can stop the returner, the more difficult it will be for their opponent to score.

"The key will be how well Miami's defence plays. They've been scoring decent points but they are conceding far too many. If their defence step it up we could have a close game on our hands. If not New York are likely to run away with the victory.

"From a coaching perspective, both coaches will have a plan going into the game but need the ability to spontaneously adapt their tactics on the day.

"The winning team will need to remain physical and aggressive and most of all, consistent. The game is often won and lost in the trenches where the offensive and defensive linemen battle it out.

We're giving you a tenner to have a punt on any market of your choice. What are you going for?

With the Giants being hot favourites you're not likely to get great odds but I'd back New York (1.21) or back the Giants at evens on the -9.5 point handicap.

A few years back people were talking about Martin Johnson having a go at gridiron. Which of the current Rugby Union players could make it across the pond and why?

"Jason Robinson would make a great running back with his great footwork, agility, change of pace / direction and hard running. He also has a stereotypical running-back physique and stature.

"Guys like Paul Sackey and Josh would also do well with their speed and power.

"Andrew Sheridan would make a great lineman as you need quick explosive reactions to drive your opponent back. Gavin Hastings spent time playing as a Kicker for the Scottish Claymores in the old World League and despite the technical differences in kicking, he had the transferable skills to be a successful kicker in American Football.

"With some coaching Johnny Wilkinson might make an impact in the kicking game. Every position in American footy is very specialised so you need to develop the technical skills to play a particular position as well as having the athletic ability. Most importantly, being able to learn and master the complex plays, tactics and strategies is vital."

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