The Miami Dolphins have been on a strong winning streak, but their upcoming matchup against the Green Bay Packers in Week 13 will pose some significant challenges. While the Dolphins have gained momentum recently, the Packers have been a tough opponent throughout the season, losing only to NFC powerhouses like the Eagles, Vikings, and Lions. As the Dolphins aim to stay dominant, they will need to overcome some key players on the Packers’ roster who could create problems for their offense and defense.
One player who could pose a serious threat is running back Josh Jacobs. After Green Bay parted ways with Aaron Jones, they brought in Jacobs, a former Raiders star who has been one of the NFL’s top running backs this season. Although Jacobs hasn’t quite matched his career-best performance from 2022, he has accumulated 944 yards and seven touchdowns this year, averaging 4.7 yards per carry. Facing a Dolphins defense that could be without linebacker Anthony Walker Jr., Jacobs is well-positioned to exploit any gaps.
Packers wide receiver Jayden Reed has emerged as a key player for Green Bay’s offense. Although Reed’s performance has been inconsistent week-to-week, he has been the team’s top receiver and has caught 41 of 52 targets for 669 yards and four touchdowns this season. Reed’s versatility, especially as a slot receiver, will likely have Dolphins defensive back Kader Kohou covering him, though there’s a chance Miami could deploy Jalen Ramsey in that role to provide additional support.
Another area where the Packers could capitalize is their offensive line, which has been playing exceptionally well this season. Green Bay’s franchise quarterback, Jordan Love, has been protected effectively, having only been sacked 10 times in nine games. Right tackle Zach Tom has been instrumental in keeping Love upright, earning a high grade of 85.3 from Pro Football Focus. With Miami’s rookie edge rusher Chop Robinson still developing, he may struggle to break through Tom’s solid play and disrupt Love’s rhythm.
Edge rusher Rashan Gary has also found his stride after a slow start to the season. Despite recording just six pressures in the first five games, Gary has significantly picked up the pace, tallying 28 pressures, with 22 of them coming in the past six games. Although his sack total stands at only 4.5, Gary’s improved pressure on the quarterback could be crucial for the Packers, especially with Miami’s offensive line facing injuries. With starting tackle Austin Jackson out for the season and Terron Armstead limited in practice, Gary could have an opportunity to add to his sack total.
On the defensive side, the Packers’ acquisition of safety Xavier McKinney has paid off handsomely. McKinney has been a ball-hawking playmaker for Green Bay, recording a career-high seven interceptions and adding 54 total tackles and nine passes defended. His ability to limit big plays and force turnovers could be problematic for the Dolphins, especially with their deep-threat receivers, Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, who rely on getting past defenders for explosive plays. McKinney’s presence in the secondary could disrupt Miami’s offensive plans.
If Tua Tagovailoa makes any risky throws, McKinney could easily take advantage of the opportunity and shift the momentum of the game. With his keen ability to make plays on the ball and disrupt passing lanes, McKinney will be a player to watch in this matchup, and his influence could be a key factor in determining the outcome of the game. As the Dolphins look to continue their winning streak, they must be prepared to face these formidable Packers players who could cause significant challenges.
