NFL / Andy Richmond / 30 October 2009 / Leave a comment

A nasty schedule has left Miami rooted to the bottom of the AFC East - their bid for post-season action must begin now, says Andy Richmond

"Miami have played very well at times this season, but a brutal schedule has left them with a 2-4 record and a firm hold on last place in the AFC East. If the Dolphins are to defend their AFC East title, they must get on a roll soon - starting with this Sunday's game against the Jets."

The New York Jets' three-game losing streak is over thanks to last week's blowout victory, but it would mean a lot more if they can get some revenge against their arch-rivals on Sunday at Giants Stadium. It's the same venue where the Dolphins secured the AFC East title with a 24-17 victory over the Jets to close the 2008 regular season. New York didn't fare better in the rematch Oct. 12, losing 31-27.

However, it's the Dolphins (2-4) who are at the bottom of the division while New York (4-3) are on first-place New England's heels after a much-needed victory last Sunday.

Ronnie Brown scored on a two-yard run with six seconds left to give the Dolphins a dramatic 31-27 victory over the Jets in Week 5 and much of the interest in this game will centre around how Jets Head Coach Rex Ryan copes with the Miami "wildcat" offence this time around. Ryan prides himself on his defensive schemes, but the Dolphins' Wildcat formation completely flummoxed New York's defense in Week 5. Ryan will no doubt have some fresh ideas in place to stop the Dolphins' unique attack, but whether they will work remains to be seen.

Both sides love to run the ball and that has proved vital for the Jets who will be without RB Leon Washington, who is out for the season with a broken leg sustained last week. NY will now be relying heavily on the rookie Shonn Greene to help Thomas Jones carry the rushing load. He responded last week with 144 yards on the ground and two touchdowns, but this is the first time he will face a defence that game plans for him. A good running game takes the pressure off rookie QB Mark Sanchez who after a decent start has struggled in recent weeks.

Miami have played very well at times this season, but a brutal schedule has left them with a 2-4 record and a firm hold on last place in the AFC East. If the Dolphins are to defend their AFC East title, they must get on a roll soon - starting with this Sunday's game against the Jets. I have a feeling that the Jets will be ready for the Wildcat this time but not be able to stop it completely and likewise the Dolphins will be able to move the ball via their potent offence and I can see the overs points total being under pressure here.

Recommendation: Over 40.5 match points - 1pt at 2.0 or better

Tags: AFC East, Leon Washington, Miami Dolphins, New York Jets, Ronnie Brown