4 major X-Factors to watch from the Dolphins vs. Patriots matchup in Week 1

Grant Afseth

September 9, 2020

Preston Williams

The Patriots will look to neutralize the Dolphins’ No. 1 receiver in DeVante Parker by matching shutdown corner Stephon Gilmore on him. The reigning Defensive Player of the Year is going to be difficult to succeed against, meaning other players must step up.

The Dolphins’ passing attack is not limited to just Parker as Preston Williams is set to have a strong campaign, too. In fact, he is positioned in a real position to be able to succeed with the lesser of the Patriots’ coverage threats on him.

During Williams’ lone matchup with the Patriots in 2019, he ended with 6 catches for 63 yards. While those are not superstar numbers, New England won 43-0, so the Dolphins’ offense wasn’t exactly clicking, to say the least.

If the Dolphins are to be more competitive against the Patriots this season, receiving standout performances on offense is vital. It’s not easy against an elite defense but the answer might end up being Williams when considering the matchups.

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