Will Mike McDaniel and the Dolphins Sink or Swim?

After an absolute collapse from the Dolphins in the opening week of the season against the Colts, Mike McDaniel's head coaching seat has gotten substantially hotter. The Dolphins brought in Mike McDaniel as their head coach several years ago, off a successful stint he had with the 49ers as their offensive coordinator. However, despite having some of the fastest players in the league at his offensive skill positions, this offense looked flat in the NFL’s opening weekend. So is this upcoming game against the Patriots a must-win game for Mike McDaniel to keep his job?

For the Dolphins, the challenge is straightforward but critical. They need to rediscover the rhythm and explosiveness that has defined their offense during McDaniel’s tenure. That starts with Tua Tagovailoa getting the ball out quickly to Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, while De’Von Achane and the run game provide balance to prevent this offense from becoming one-dimensional. After looking timid and disjointed in Week 1, Miami has to come out with urgency, establish control early, and show they can finish drives with touchdowns instead of sputtering. A second straight flat performance would only fuel the questions swirling around McDaniel’s leadership.

On the other hand, the Patriots see this matchup as an opportunity. Miami has had New England’s number in recent years, with the Dolphins winning seven straight against the Patriots with Tagovailoa. For new head coach Mike Vrabel, this is the perfect chance to make a statement and show his team is capable of competing for a playoff spot in the AFC. If the Patriots can successfully stifle the Dolphins with a disciplined defensive game plan that limits explosive plays, and pair that with a steady offensive approach that controls the ball, this game could be the turning point that tilts this rivalry back in New England’s favor.

Both teams are coming in with something to prove, but the stakes feel heavier in Miami. For McDaniel, this isn’t just about getting into the win column; it’s about reestablishing trust in his system and showing he can steer the Dolphins forward after a humiliating setback. For the Patriots, it’s a chance to erase years of frustration against their division foe and usher in a new era under Vrabel. One side is fighting to protect stability, and the other is pushing to build momentum. Together, it sets the stage for one of Week 2’s most compelling matchups.