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After a so-so performance last week, the Miami Dolphins come home with San Diego paying a visit to south Florida.

While the offense showed it had some issues in the 27-13 win over Jacksonville, the defense was able to put pressure on Blake Bortles and slow the rookie down and forcing him into mistakes which cost the Jaguars the game.

The Chargers are a more powerful offense – with Philip Rivers the trigger man and a defense that looks to stop Ryan Tannehill his is weapons of choice.

Here is a look at the Chargers, according to the Dolphins website.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON OFFENSE: The Chargers rank 30th in the NFL in rushing yards per game and they’re eighth in passing yards, so this one is not tough to figure out. But this is pretty much all about quarterback Philip Rivers, who is having another tremendous season.

Rivers has never been very mobile and he has an unorthodox delivery, but he’s tough, accurate and has a knack for making throws in difficult situations. The Dolphins also need to keep close tabs on tight end Antonio Gates, particularly in the red zone. The former college basketball player is tied for the NFL lead with nine touchdown receptions.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON OFFENSE: The Chargers running game has struggled pretty much all season, and it’s not just because of a rash of injuries at running back. Yes, Danny Woodhead is on injured reserve and starter Ryan Mathews and Donald Brown both have missed games, but it’s worth noting that none of them have averaged better than 3.1 yards per attempt.

The only back with any kind of success has been rookie free agent Branden Oliver, who had back-to-back 100-yard games against the Jets and Raiders but was shut down last week by the Denver Broncos. Another issue on offense for the Chargers is the offensive line. The loss of former Pro Bowl center Nick Hardwick was a tough blow.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON DEFENSE: The secondary was the weak link on the Chargers’ playoff team last season and they went out and did something about it in the offseason, selecting cornerback Jason Verrett in the first round of the NFL draft and also signing former Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers after he was released following his first Pro Bowl appearance.

Verrett likely will miss the game Sunday because of a shoulder injury, but Flowers appears on track to return after missing one game with a concussion. With Flowers and safety Eric Weddle, the Chargers have two elite players in the secondary and they’re two big reasons San Diego is ranked sixth in the NFL in pass defense.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON DEFENSE: San Diego’s pass defense ranking is even more impressive when you consider the Chargers don’t have a great pass rush. Dwight Freeney once was an elite pass rusher with the Colts, but he’s on the down side of his career. Former first-round pick Melvin Ingram was counted on to help the pass rush, but he’s on injured reserve-designated to return.

As it is, the Chargers don’t have a single player on the team with more than 2.5 sacks through eight games. The Chargers’ run defense also hasn’t been that great, as evidenced by their opponents’ 4.5-yard average.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON SPECIAL TEAMS: There are four kickers in the NFL who have yet to miss a field goal attempt this season and one of them is the Chargers’ Nick Novak, who will bring a 14-for-14 mark into the game Sunday. This is just the continuation of a great run for Novak, who was 34-for-37 in 2013. The Chargers also rank eighth in the NFL in terms of kickoff return average allowed.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON SPECIAL TEAMS: Whether it’s a matter of bad luck or whatever the cause, the Chargers haven’t been very active in terms of returning kickoffs. They’ve only brought back five this season, the lowest number in the entire league. The low number probably doesn’t matter much considering the Chargers are averaging only 16.0 yards per kickoff return and their long is only 22 yards. The Chargers rank last in the NFL in kickoff return average, and they’re not that much better on punt returns with an average of 7.1 yards and a long of only 29 yards.

After a so-so performance last week, the Miami Dolphins come home with San Diego paying a visit to south Florida.

While the offense showed it had some issues in the 27-13 win over Jacksonville, the defense was able to put pressure on Blake Bortles and slow the rookie down and forcing him into mistakes which cost the Jaguars the game.

The Chargers are a more powerful offense – with Philip Rivers the trigger man and a defense that looks to stop Ryan Tannehill his is weapons of choice.

Here is a look at the Chargers, according to the Dolphins website.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON OFFENSE: The Chargers rank 30th in the NFL in rushing yards per game and they’re eighth in passing yards, so this one is not tough to figure out. But this is pretty much all about quarterback Philip Rivers, who is having another tremendous season.

Rivers has never been very mobile and he has an unorthodox delivery, but he’s tough, accurate and has a knack for making throws in difficult situations. The Dolphins also need to keep close tabs on tight end Antonio Gates, particularly in the red zone. The former college basketball player is tied for the NFL lead with nine touchdown receptions.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON OFFENSE: The Chargers running game has struggled pretty much all season, and it’s not just because of a rash of injuries at running back. Yes, Danny Woodhead is on injured reserve and starter Ryan Mathews and Donald Brown both have missed games, but it’s worth noting that none of them have averaged better than 3.1 yards per attempt.

The only back with any kind of success has been rookie free agent Branden Oliver, who had back-to-back 100-yard games against the Jets and Raiders but was shut down last week by the Denver Broncos. Another issue on offense for the Chargers is the offensive line. The loss of former Pro Bowl center Nick Hardwick was a tough blow.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON DEFENSE: The secondary was the weak link on the Chargers’ playoff team last season and they went out and did something about it in the offseason, selecting cornerback Jason Verrett in the first round of the NFL draft and also signing former Chiefs cornerback Brandon Flowers after he was released following his first Pro Bowl appearance.

Verrett likely will miss the game Sunday because of a shoulder injury, but Flowers appears on track to return after missing one game with a concussion. With Flowers and safety Eric Weddle, the Chargers have two elite players in the secondary and they’re two big reasons San Diego is ranked sixth in the NFL in pass defense.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON DEFENSE: San Diego’s pass defense ranking is even more impressive when you consider the Chargers don’t have a great pass rush. Dwight Freeney once was an elite pass rusher with the Colts, but he’s on the down side of his career. Former first-round pick Melvin Ingram was counted on to help the pass rush, but he’s on injured reserve-designated to return.

As it is, the Chargers don’t have a single player on the team with more than 2.5 sacks through eight games. The Chargers’ run defense also hasn’t been that great, as evidenced by their opponents’ 4.5-yard average.

THE CHARGERS’ STRENGTH ON SPECIAL TEAMS: There are four kickers in the NFL who have yet to miss a field goal attempt this season and one of them is the Chargers’ Nick Novak, who will bring a 14-for-14 mark into the game Sunday. This is just the continuation of a great run for Novak, who was 34-for-37 in 2013. The Chargers also rank eighth in the NFL in terms of kickoff return average allowed.

THE CHARGERS’ QUESTION MARK ON SPECIAL TEAMS: Whether it’s a matter of bad luck or whatever the cause, the Chargers haven’t been very active in terms of returning kickoffs. They’ve only brought back five this season, the lowest number in the entire league. The low number probably doesn’t matter much considering the Chargers are averaging only 16.0 yards per kickoff return and their long is only 22 yards. The Chargers rank last in the NFL in kickoff return average, and they’re not that much better on punt returns with an average of 7.1 yards and a long of only 29 yards.

Miami has not been a happy hunting ground for the San Diego Chargers. Back in 1995 the Chargers lost 26-49 against the San Francisco 49ers at Super Bowl XXIX. Mike McCoy will be tyring to avoid a third straight defeat on Sunday.

Here are five things to know about the game;

Gates in form

Antonio Gates has had a very productive season for the Chargers thus far. Gates leads the Bolts in touchdowns with nine and needs five me to equal Tony Martin (1996) and Lance Alworth's (1965) touchdown record for a single season for the Chargers (14). If Gates gets another on Sunday, it will be the fourth time in his career that he has reached 10 or more touchdowns in a season. Tony Martin (1996) and Lance Alworth (1965) hold the touchdown record for a single season for the Chargers with 14 touchdowns.

It's time to go long

Miami born Branden Oliver has made the longest play for the Chargers in 2014 with 52 yards rushing. Mike Wallace leads the way for the Dolpins with a 50-yard receptions.

A dollar in the red

Ryan Tannehill has been sacked 17 times so far this season for a loss of 100 yards. Tannehill will be hoping to avoid being the most sacked quarterback for a second season in a row.

Miami love to entertain the Chargers

The Chargers are not only looking to avoid a third straight defeat this season, but they have lost their last eight games on the road to the Dolphins.

Sack master

Cameron Wake is looking for sack number 58 of his career and has had a sack in each of his last three games.

This is a tough game to call, both teams have their sights set on the playoffs. A defeat for either team will be a big set-back.

Miami has not been a happy hunting ground for the San Diego Chargers. Back in 1995 the Chargers lost 26-49 against the San Francisco 49ers at Super Bowl XXIX. Mike McCoy will be tyring to avoid a third straight defeat on Sunday.

Here are five things to know about the game;

Gates in form

Antonio Gates has had a very productive season for the Chargers thus far. Gates leads the Bolts in touchdowns with nine and needs five me to equal Tony Martin (1996) and Lance Alworth's (1965) touchdown record for a single season for the Chargers (14). If Gates gets another on Sunday, it will be the fourth time in his career that he has reached 10 or more touchdowns in a season. Tony Martin (1996) and Lance Alworth (1965) hold the touchdown record for a single season for the Chargers with 14 touchdowns.

It's time to go long

Miami born Branden Oliver has made the longest play for the Chargers in 2014 with 52 yards rushing. Mike Wallace leads the way for the Dolpins with a 50-yard receptions.

A dollar in the red

Ryan Tannehill has been sacked 17 times so far this season for a loss of 100 yards. Tannehill will be hoping to avoid being the most sacked quarterback for a second season in a row.

Miami love to entertain the Chargers

The Chargers are not only looking to avoid a third straight defeat this season, but they have lost their last eight games on the road to the Dolphins.

Sack master

Cameron Wake is looking for sack number 58 of his career and has had a sack in each of his last three games.

This is a tough game to call, both teams have their sights set on the playoffs. A defeat for either team will be a big set-back.

Miami has not been a happy hunting ground for the San Diego Chargers. Back in 1995 the Chargers lost 26-49 against the San Francisco 49ers at Super Bowl XXIX. Mike McCoy will be tyring to avoid a third straight defeat on Sunday.

Here are five things to know about the game;

Gates in form

Antonio Gates has had a very productive season for the Chargers thus far. Gates leads the Bolts in touchdowns with nine and needs five me to equal Tony Martin (1996) and Lance Alworth's (1965) touchdown record for a single season for the Chargers (14). If Gates gets another on Sunday, it will be the fourth time in his career that he has reached 10 or more touchdowns in a season. Tony Martin (1996) and Lance Alworth (1965) hold the touchdown record for a single season for the Chargers with 14 touchdowns.

It's time to go long

Miami born Branden Oliver has made the longest play for the Chargers in 2014 with 52 yards rushing. Mike Wallace leads the way for the Dolpins with a 50-yard receptions.

A dollar in the red

Ryan Tannehill has been sacked 17 times so far this season for a loss of 100 yards. Tannehill will be hoping to avoid being the most sacked quarterback for a second season in a row.

Miami love to entertain the Chargers

The Chargers are not only looking to avoid a third straight defeat this season, but they have lost their last eight games on the road to the Dolphins.

Sack master

Cameron Wake is looking for sack number 58 of his career and has had a sack in each of his last three games.

This is a tough game to call, both teams have their sights set on the playoffs. A defeat for either team will be a big set-back.

Miami has not been a happy hunting ground for the San Diego Chargers. Back in 1995 the Chargers lost 26-49 against the San Francisco 49ers at Super Bowl XXIX. Mike McCoy will be tyring to avoid a third straight defeat on Sunday.

Here are five things to know about the game;

Gates in form

Antonio Gates has had a very productive season for the Chargers thus far. Gates leads the Bolts in touchdowns with nine and needs five me to equal Tony Martin (1996) and Lance Alworth's (1965) touchdown record for a single season for the Chargers (14). If Gates gets another on Sunday, it will be the fourth time in his career that he has reached 10 or more touchdowns in a season. Tony Martin (1996) and Lance Alworth (1965) hold the touchdown record for a single season for the Chargers with 14 touchdowns.

It's time to go long

Miami born Branden Oliver has made the longest play for the Chargers in 2014 with 52 yards rushing. Mike Wallace leads the way for the Dolpins with a 50-yard receptions.

A dollar in the red

Ryan Tannehill has been sacked 17 times so far this season for a loss of 100 yards. Tannehill will be hoping to avoid being the most sacked quarterback for a second season in a row.

Miami love to entertain the Chargers

The Chargers are not only looking to avoid a third straight defeat this season, but they have lost their last eight games on the road to the Dolphins.

Sack master

Cameron Wake is looking for sack number 58 of his career and has had a sack in each of his last three games.

This is a tough game to call, both teams have their sights set on the playoffs. A defeat for either team will be a big set-back.

It is kind of hard to get excited about the Miami Dolphins win over the Jacksonville Jaguars this past Sunday. But a win is a win – no matter how ugly it was.

There is a difference in how the Dolphins played in two halves of football. The result was a 27-13 win on the road at a time when the team needed to continue momentum toward the post season.

I’m not sure this win continues any momentum as much as it raises more questions.

Here are three things we learned about this team on Sunday.

1.  Six-Pack

Right from the start you got the feeling that it was going to be a defensive type of day for the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins offensive line struggled mightily in the first quarter and the offense was only able to generate three yards in that quarter.

So the burden of getting off to a fast start, as well as winning today’s football game laid squarely in the lap of the Dolphins defense. Safety Louis Delmas provided the spark and first pick six of the day coming off of his outside flat coverage responsibility, and undercut rookie quarterback Blake Bortles’ pass and taking it 81 yards untouched for a Dolphins touchdown.

 It was a veteran baiting a rookie quarterback into believing there was a window to deliver the football, and Delmas’ veteran savvy provided him the interception opportunity, which he took full advantage of.

The second time the defense found the end zone was when Brent Grimes played a double move on the outside perfectly, and stepped in front of another Bortles pass, and effectively jogged into the end zone. It was a good scheme dialed up by defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle to bring safety pressure from the boundary that limited the time in the pocket for Bortles and also allowed Grimes to break instinctively on the football.

2. Youthful Exuberance

Although the playmakers the majority of the day were veteran presences, I felt that the young guys are getting valuable experience on both sides of the football and are making an impact on a weekly basis. It starts on defense at linebacker with Jelani Jenkins and his relentless pursuit ability, which forced a fumble during the game that was ultimately recovered by Louis Delmas.

Staying on the defensive side of the football, 3rd year player Olivier Vernon might have had his best game as a Miami Dolphin. Not only did he have a key play on special teams, but had multiple pressures and was constantly in the Jaguars backfield. Cornerback Jamar Taylor seems to be fitting into a niche in the defensive backfield, and his open field tackling seems to be improving. He’s player that may be able to be counted on from this point out.

With Dion Jordan coming back, I think Jordan and linebacker Chris McCain give the Dolphins size and range on the outside, and could provide valuable rest for defensive ends Vernon, Cameron Wake, Derrick Shelby.

On offense, it’s worth noting that right tackle Ja’Wuan James hasn’t just been a guy to be counted on, but has clearly proven that he was the right selection in the 1st round by Dennis Hickey and the Dolphins organization.  Receiver Jarvis Landry has not only proven to have consistent hands and a good route runner, he brings toughness and explosiveness in the return game.

It was nice also to see Rishard Matthews get his first touchdown of the season, because I think he’s a player that Dolphins fans should watch for as he’s likely to get more playing opportunities on offense and special teams as the season progresses.

3. Hot & Cold

The Dolphins overcame a very slow start and were able to get the victory on the road, but this is not the blueprint in the coming weeks to win football games. After starting fast in Chicago, Miami did the exact opposite today. I don’t believe the Dolphins can face better teams like San Diego, Detroit, and Buffalo, and sputter out of the gate as an offensive unit like they have at points this year.  

The biggest problem to date is when the offensive line doesn’t get going early. That leaves shaky protection in the pocket for Ryan Tannehill, and limited running space for Lamar Miller. When those things happen, and you don’t catch the football consistently in the first half you dig too deep of a hole early, and sometimes the defense won’t be able to bail you out of it.

This offense doesn’t have to score 21 points in the first half, but they need to consistently possess the football so the defense doesn’t get worn down in the second half of football games.

It is kind of hard to get excited about the Miami Dolphins win over the Jacksonville Jaguars this past Sunday. But a win is a win – no matter how ugly it was.

There is a difference in how the Dolphins played in two halves of football. The result was a 27-13 win on the road at a time when the team needed to continue momentum toward the post season.

I’m not sure this win continues any momentum as much as it raises more questions.

Here are three things we learned about this team on Sunday.

1.  Six-Pack

Right from the start you got the feeling that it was going to be a defensive type of day for the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins offensive line struggled mightily in the first quarter and the offense was only able to generate three yards in that quarter.

So the burden of getting off to a fast start, as well as winning today’s football game laid squarely in the lap of the Dolphins defense. Safety Louis Delmas provided the spark and first pick six of the day coming off of his outside flat coverage responsibility, and undercut rookie quarterback Blake Bortles’ pass and taking it 81 yards untouched for a Dolphins touchdown.

 It was a veteran baiting a rookie quarterback into believing there was a window to deliver the football, and Delmas’ veteran savvy provided him the interception opportunity, which he took full advantage of.

The second time the defense found the end zone was when Brent Grimes played a double move on the outside perfectly, and stepped in front of another Bortles pass, and effectively jogged into the end zone. It was a good scheme dialed up by defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle to bring safety pressure from the boundary that limited the time in the pocket for Bortles and also allowed Grimes to break instinctively on the football.

2. Youthful Exuberance

Although the playmakers the majority of the day were veteran presences, I felt that the young guys are getting valuable experience on both sides of the football and are making an impact on a weekly basis. It starts on defense at linebacker with Jelani Jenkins and his relentless pursuit ability, which forced a fumble during the game that was ultimately recovered by Louis Delmas.

Staying on the defensive side of the football, 3rd year player Olivier Vernon might have had his best game as a Miami Dolphin. Not only did he have a key play on special teams, but had multiple pressures and was constantly in the Jaguars backfield. Cornerback Jamar Taylor seems to be fitting into a niche in the defensive backfield, and his open field tackling seems to be improving. He’s player that may be able to be counted on from this point out.

With Dion Jordan coming back, I think Jordan and linebacker Chris McCain give the Dolphins size and range on the outside, and could provide valuable rest for defensive ends Vernon, Cameron Wake, Derrick Shelby.

On offense, it’s worth noting that right tackle Ja’Wuan James hasn’t just been a guy to be counted on, but has clearly proven that he was the right selection in the 1st round by Dennis Hickey and the Dolphins organization.  Receiver Jarvis Landry has not only proven to have consistent hands and a good route runner, he brings toughness and explosiveness in the return game.

It was nice also to see Rishard Matthews get his first touchdown of the season, because I think he’s a player that Dolphins fans should watch for as he’s likely to get more playing opportunities on offense and special teams as the season progresses.

3. Hot & Cold

The Dolphins overcame a very slow start and were able to get the victory on the road, but this is not the blueprint in the coming weeks to win football games. After starting fast in Chicago, Miami did the exact opposite today. I don’t believe the Dolphins can face better teams like San Diego, Detroit, and Buffalo, and sputter out of the gate as an offensive unit like they have at points this year.  

The biggest problem to date is when the offensive line doesn’t get going early. That leaves shaky protection in the pocket for Ryan Tannehill, and limited running space for Lamar Miller. When those things happen, and you don’t catch the football consistently in the first half you dig too deep of a hole early, and sometimes the defense won’t be able to bail you out of it.

This offense doesn’t have to score 21 points in the first half, but they need to consistently possess the football so the defense doesn’t get worn down in the second half of football games.

There ain’t nothing wrong with a little interstate rivalry. The Dolphins travel to Jacksonville this weekend to face the Jaguars in a game that is now a “must win” for both teams as they march forward in the second half of the season.

For the Dolphins, a win means continued momentum. It is proof positive that Miami is marching toward the postseason and is the definitive second best team in the AFC East.

For the Jaguars, a win – along with the one last week against Cleveland – means the franchise has turned on the switch and is ready to be taken somewhat seriously in an AFC that is truly up for grabs with the exception of Denver.

Can the Dolphins get another road win? Here are five keys to a victory on Sunday – according to miamidolphins.com.

Run The Ball - Most of the consistent teams in the NFL usually control the line of scrimmage and have the ability to run the football. It sets the tone for the game and gives the offense flexibility in play calling and play action passing game. I believe this is where quarterback Ryan Tannehill excelled last week in the first half, using a positive running game and turning it into space in the passing game. Also Tannehill's ability to execute the zone-read just adds to the running totals and completely freezes the edge of the defense.

Miami is fourth in the league in rushing averaging 136.3 yards per game and facing a Jaguars defense minus arguably their best defender in linebacker Paul Posluszny. This unit likes to get after opposing quarterbacks - Jacksonville's 22 sacks rank 2nd in the NFL - so it would be beneficial for the Dolphins to continue to have balance in their offensive attack.

Play With The Lead - It must have been a great feeling for this team last week to generate a 14-0 lead and take that two touchdown spread into halftime. It's only the second time this season - the Oakland game in London - the Dolphins have been able to gain an advantage after 30 minutes, and in both games, that lead allowed both sides of the football to play at their desired tempo.

The offense doesn't need to press or lean on the passing game, and the defense can mix it up, not relying on creating pressure with exotic pressures that might expose a secondary. The fast start on offense last week looked like a continuation of the second half execution against Green Bay and let's hope there's more of the same in North Florida on Sunday.

Squeeze Bortles - It's been fun to watch this defense get after the quarterback this year, from Tom Brady in the opener to chasing Aaron Rodgers all over the field two weeks ago. This week comes a different challenge in rookie quarterback Blake Bortles, who has some of the same characteristics as Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger. Bortles stands at 6'5 232 pounds and is not afraid to take chances down the field, but also completes a high percentage of throws.

He can also use his elusiveness to shake off pass rushers and use his legs to extend the play. It will be important for the front seven to get consistent pressure on the rookie early, which might get his eyes looking out for the pass rush instead of scanning the secondary for room to fit the football into.

Keep The Red Zone Green - This is one area on the field where Miami must convert and find a way to get into the end zone against the Jaguars. The last couple of weeks, this offense didn't execute consistently (fourth and goal against Green Bay and a blocked field goal against Chicago) and failed to convert positive field position into easy points.

The Dolphins defense set the table three times (plus 23, 16 and 35 yard line) and the offense could only generate 10 points.

This is the formula that Jacksonville used last week to beat the Browns, where the Jaguars defense held Cleveland to only six points and also stopped them on a fourth and one on the 24-yard line. Miami has been efficient for the most part converting chances into touchdowns (53 percent) and this must continue on the road against Jacksonville.

Stay Aggressive - Now is the time for this team to start stacking up the W's and creating some separation from the bottom of the AFC East. Now is the time to keep pace with New England and matching a victory with a victory. In order to do that this team needs to stay aggressive in the way they approach each week, every quarter and every series.

The Miami Dolphins have enough talent to make a run and are proficient in all aspects to get this win in Jacksonville on Sunday, and the way to do that is to keep attacking on both sides of the ball. If the Dolphins continue to attack and be aggressive against a team that they are more talented in across the board, it should be enough to come out of EverBank Field with a win on Sunday.

There ain’t nothing wrong with a little interstate rivalry. The Dolphins travel to Jacksonville this weekend to face the Jaguars in a game that is now a “must win” for both teams as they march forward in the second half of the season.

For the Dolphins, a win means continued momentum. It is proof positive that Miami is marching toward the postseason and is the definitive second best team in the AFC East.

For the Jaguars, a win – along with the one last week against Cleveland – means the franchise has turned on the switch and is ready to be taken somewhat seriously in an AFC that is truly up for grabs with the exception of Denver.

Can the Dolphins get another road win? Here are five keys to a victory on Sunday – according to miamidolphins.com.

Run The Ball - Most of the consistent teams in the NFL usually control the line of scrimmage and have the ability to run the football. It sets the tone for the game and gives the offense flexibility in play calling and play action passing game. I believe this is where quarterback Ryan Tannehill excelled last week in the first half, using a positive running game and turning it into space in the passing game. Also Tannehill's ability to execute the zone-read just adds to the running totals and completely freezes the edge of the defense.

Miami is fourth in the league in rushing averaging 136.3 yards per game and facing a Jaguars defense minus arguably their best defender in linebacker Paul Posluszny. This unit likes to get after opposing quarterbacks - Jacksonville's 22 sacks rank 2nd in the NFL - so it would be beneficial for the Dolphins to continue to have balance in their offensive attack.

Play With The Lead - It must have been a great feeling for this team last week to generate a 14-0 lead and take that two touchdown spread into halftime. It's only the second time this season - the Oakland game in London - the Dolphins have been able to gain an advantage after 30 minutes, and in both games, that lead allowed both sides of the football to play at their desired tempo.

The offense doesn't need to press or lean on the passing game, and the defense can mix it up, not relying on creating pressure with exotic pressures that might expose a secondary. The fast start on offense last week looked like a continuation of the second half execution against Green Bay and let's hope there's more of the same in North Florida on Sunday.

Squeeze Bortles - It's been fun to watch this defense get after the quarterback this year, from Tom Brady in the opener to chasing Aaron Rodgers all over the field two weeks ago. This week comes a different challenge in rookie quarterback Blake Bortles, who has some of the same characteristics as Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger. Bortles stands at 6'5 232 pounds and is not afraid to take chances down the field, but also completes a high percentage of throws.

He can also use his elusiveness to shake off pass rushers and use his legs to extend the play. It will be important for the front seven to get consistent pressure on the rookie early, which might get his eyes looking out for the pass rush instead of scanning the secondary for room to fit the football into.

Keep The Red Zone Green - This is one area on the field where Miami must convert and find a way to get into the end zone against the Jaguars. The last couple of weeks, this offense didn't execute consistently (fourth and goal against Green Bay and a blocked field goal against Chicago) and failed to convert positive field position into easy points.

The Dolphins defense set the table three times (plus 23, 16 and 35 yard line) and the offense could only generate 10 points.

This is the formula that Jacksonville used last week to beat the Browns, where the Jaguars defense held Cleveland to only six points and also stopped them on a fourth and one on the 24-yard line. Miami has been efficient for the most part converting chances into touchdowns (53 percent) and this must continue on the road against Jacksonville.

Stay Aggressive - Now is the time for this team to start stacking up the W's and creating some separation from the bottom of the AFC East. Now is the time to keep pace with New England and matching a victory with a victory. In order to do that this team needs to stay aggressive in the way they approach each week, every quarter and every series.

The Miami Dolphins have enough talent to make a run and are proficient in all aspects to get this win in Jacksonville on Sunday, and the way to do that is to keep attacking on both sides of the ball. If the Dolphins continue to attack and be aggressive against a team that they are more talented in across the board, it should be enough to come out of EverBank Field with a win on Sunday.

There ain’t nothing wrong with a little interstate rivalry. The Dolphins travel to Jacksonville this weekend to face the Jaguars in a game that is now a “must win” for both teams as they march forward in the second half of the season.

For the Dolphins, a win means continued momentum. It is proof positive that Miami is marching toward the postseason and is the definitive second best team in the AFC East.

For the Jaguars, a win – along with the one last week against Cleveland – means the franchise has turned on the switch and is ready to be taken somewhat seriously in an AFC that is truly up for grabs with the exception of Denver.

Can the Dolphins get another road win? Here are five keys to a victory on Sunday – according to miamidolphins.com.

Run The Ball - Most of the consistent teams in the NFL usually control the line of scrimmage and have the ability to run the football. It sets the tone for the game and gives the offense flexibility in play calling and play action passing game. I believe this is where quarterback Ryan Tannehill excelled last week in the first half, using a positive running game and turning it into space in the passing game. Also Tannehill's ability to execute the zone-read just adds to the running totals and completely freezes the edge of the defense.

Miami is fourth in the league in rushing averaging 136.3 yards per game and facing a Jaguars defense minus arguably their best defender in linebacker Paul Posluszny. This unit likes to get after opposing quarterbacks - Jacksonville's 22 sacks rank 2nd in the NFL - so it would be beneficial for the Dolphins to continue to have balance in their offensive attack.

Play With The Lead - It must have been a great feeling for this team last week to generate a 14-0 lead and take that two touchdown spread into halftime. It's only the second time this season - the Oakland game in London - the Dolphins have been able to gain an advantage after 30 minutes, and in both games, that lead allowed both sides of the football to play at their desired tempo.

The offense doesn't need to press or lean on the passing game, and the defense can mix it up, not relying on creating pressure with exotic pressures that might expose a secondary. The fast start on offense last week looked like a continuation of the second half execution against Green Bay and let's hope there's more of the same in North Florida on Sunday.

Squeeze Bortles - It's been fun to watch this defense get after the quarterback this year, from Tom Brady in the opener to chasing Aaron Rodgers all over the field two weeks ago. This week comes a different challenge in rookie quarterback Blake Bortles, who has some of the same characteristics as Pittsburgh's Ben Roethlisberger. Bortles stands at 6'5 232 pounds and is not afraid to take chances down the field, but also completes a high percentage of throws.

He can also use his elusiveness to shake off pass rushers and use his legs to extend the play. It will be important for the front seven to get consistent pressure on the rookie early, which might get his eyes looking out for the pass rush instead of scanning the secondary for room to fit the football into.

Keep The Red Zone Green - This is one area on the field where Miami must convert and find a way to get into the end zone against the Jaguars. The last couple of weeks, this offense didn't execute consistently (fourth and goal against Green Bay and a blocked field goal against Chicago) and failed to convert positive field position into easy points.

The Dolphins defense set the table three times (plus 23, 16 and 35 yard line) and the offense could only generate 10 points.

This is the formula that Jacksonville used last week to beat the Browns, where the Jaguars defense held Cleveland to only six points and also stopped them on a fourth and one on the 24-yard line. Miami has been efficient for the most part converting chances into touchdowns (53 percent) and this must continue on the road against Jacksonville.

Stay Aggressive - Now is the time for this team to start stacking up the W's and creating some separation from the bottom of the AFC East. Now is the time to keep pace with New England and matching a victory with a victory. In order to do that this team needs to stay aggressive in the way they approach each week, every quarter and every series.

The Miami Dolphins have enough talent to make a run and are proficient in all aspects to get this win in Jacksonville on Sunday, and the way to do that is to keep attacking on both sides of the ball. If the Dolphins continue to attack and be aggressive against a team that they are more talented in across the board, it should be enough to come out of EverBank Field with a win on Sunday.

The Miami Dolphins got right back to business on Monday following the team’s bye week after beating Oakland in London.

One of the things the team should be excited about heading into their game at home against the Green Packers is the fact Knowshon Moreno was back at practice this week. Wearing a brace on his left elbow, Moreno practiced for the first time since being injured in the first quarter of the Dolphins’ Week 2 game against the Buffalo Bills.

“It felt good to get out there on the field and just work out a little bit of the rust and get back on the field,” Moreno said. “I’m just going to go out and practice and get back into that practice mentality and then my game mentality when it comes. Once that stuff comes, everything else will take care of itself.”

Moreno had the highest rushing total in the NFL in the first week of the regular season when he gained 134 yards in the 33-20 victory against the New England Patriots, but was injured on his first rushing attempt against Buffalo.

Head Coach Joe Philbin said he was optimistic that Moreno could return to action soon, but the free agent acquisition must prove in practice that he’s ready.

“He has to prove out here that he can run, he can catch, he can block,” Philbin said. “He’s got to do a lot of things. If he can do all those things, that’d be great. But we’ll have to see.”

The Dolphins have looked better this season with the ground game, getting solid contributions from Moreno, Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas when he has been in the lineup.

POUNCEY READY

According to the team’s website, Mike Pouncey appears on track to make his season debut this weekend against the Green Bay Packers, and he said after practice Monday he was feeling great and as happy as he has been in a while.

There is some uncertainty, however, as to where Pouncey will line up upon his return after Philbin said last week he would explore all options to get the five best offensive linemen on the field.

Pouncey has played only center since joining the Dolphins as a first-round pick in 2011 and he was selected to the Pro Bowl at that position last season, but remember that he played guard at the University of Florida before moving inside for his senior year. Pouncey said he was simply ready to make a contribution to the Dolphins offense.

“I think I’ll make a big one,” he said. “Whatever position I’m playing at, it’s going to be for the better of the team.”

PLAYERS MOVING FORWARD

With versatile defensive lineman Derrick Shelby out of action after being suspended by the Dolphins for conduct detrimental to the team, it could be up to Terrence Fede and Anthony Johnson to make up for those snaps.

The two rookies say they’re up to the challenge.

“It’s football; I’ve been doing it for as long as I can remember,” Johnson said. “At the end of the day, I put in the work every day at practice and if it’s four snaps to 20 snaps, whatever the coaches need me to do, I’ll go in and do it.

“The coaches spoke to everybody on the unit and told everybody we have to pick it up. Shelby was a guy who was quiet but he came in and played high-quality 30-plus snaps. So at the end of the day, Terrence Fede has to step up at defensive end and myself on the inside to help take some of the pressure off those older guys.”

Johnson has appeared in all four games this season, while Fede made his NFL regular season debut in the 38-14 victory against the Oakland Raiders in London two Sundays ago.

“It’s big shoes to fill in, but I’m ready for the opportunity that I have,” Fede said. “Coach told me that when you’re out there, you’ve just got to give it your all, you’ve just got to hope for the best.”

The Miami Dolphins got right back to business on Monday following the team’s bye week after beating Oakland in London.

One of the things the team should be excited about heading into their game at home against the Green Packers is the fact Knowshon Moreno was back at practice this week. Wearing a brace on his left elbow, Moreno practiced for the first time since being injured in the first quarter of the Dolphins’ Week 2 game against the Buffalo Bills.

“It felt good to get out there on the field and just work out a little bit of the rust and get back on the field,” Moreno said. “I’m just going to go out and practice and get back into that practice mentality and then my game mentality when it comes. Once that stuff comes, everything else will take care of itself.”

Moreno had the highest rushing total in the NFL in the first week of the regular season when he gained 134 yards in the 33-20 victory against the New England Patriots, but was injured on his first rushing attempt against Buffalo.

Head Coach Joe Philbin said he was optimistic that Moreno could return to action soon, but the free agent acquisition must prove in practice that he’s ready.

“He has to prove out here that he can run, he can catch, he can block,” Philbin said. “He’s got to do a lot of things. If he can do all those things, that’d be great. But we’ll have to see.”

The Dolphins have looked better this season with the ground game, getting solid contributions from Moreno, Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas when he has been in the lineup.

POUNCEY READY

According to the team’s website, Mike Pouncey appears on track to make his season debut this weekend against the Green Bay Packers, and he said after practice Monday he was feeling great and as happy as he has been in a while.

There is some uncertainty, however, as to where Pouncey will line up upon his return after Philbin said last week he would explore all options to get the five best offensive linemen on the field.

Pouncey has played only center since joining the Dolphins as a first-round pick in 2011 and he was selected to the Pro Bowl at that position last season, but remember that he played guard at the University of Florida before moving inside for his senior year. Pouncey said he was simply ready to make a contribution to the Dolphins offense.

“I think I’ll make a big one,” he said. “Whatever position I’m playing at, it’s going to be for the better of the team.”

PLAYERS MOVING FORWARD

With versatile defensive lineman Derrick Shelby out of action after being suspended by the Dolphins for conduct detrimental to the team, it could be up to Terrence Fede and Anthony Johnson to make up for those snaps.

The two rookies say they’re up to the challenge.

“It’s football; I’ve been doing it for as long as I can remember,” Johnson said. “At the end of the day, I put in the work every day at practice and if it’s four snaps to 20 snaps, whatever the coaches need me to do, I’ll go in and do it.

“The coaches spoke to everybody on the unit and told everybody we have to pick it up. Shelby was a guy who was quiet but he came in and played high-quality 30-plus snaps. So at the end of the day, Terrence Fede has to step up at defensive end and myself on the inside to help take some of the pressure off those older guys.”

Johnson has appeared in all four games this season, while Fede made his NFL regular season debut in the 38-14 victory against the Oakland Raiders in London two Sundays ago.

“It’s big shoes to fill in, but I’m ready for the opportunity that I have,” Fede said. “Coach told me that when you’re out there, you’ve just got to give it your all, you’ve just got to hope for the best.”

The Miami Dolphins got right back to business on Monday following the team’s bye week after beating Oakland in London.

One of the things the team should be excited about heading into their game at home against the Green Packers is the fact Knowshon Moreno was back at practice this week. Wearing a brace on his left elbow, Moreno practiced for the first time since being injured in the first quarter of the Dolphins’ Week 2 game against the Buffalo Bills.

“It felt good to get out there on the field and just work out a little bit of the rust and get back on the field,” Moreno said. “I’m just going to go out and practice and get back into that practice mentality and then my game mentality when it comes. Once that stuff comes, everything else will take care of itself.”

Moreno had the highest rushing total in the NFL in the first week of the regular season when he gained 134 yards in the 33-20 victory against the New England Patriots, but was injured on his first rushing attempt against Buffalo.

Head Coach Joe Philbin said he was optimistic that Moreno could return to action soon, but the free agent acquisition must prove in practice that he’s ready.

“He has to prove out here that he can run, he can catch, he can block,” Philbin said. “He’s got to do a lot of things. If he can do all those things, that’d be great. But we’ll have to see.”

The Dolphins have looked better this season with the ground game, getting solid contributions from Moreno, Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas when he has been in the lineup.

POUNCEY READY

According to the team’s website, Mike Pouncey appears on track to make his season debut this weekend against the Green Bay Packers, and he said after practice Monday he was feeling great and as happy as he has been in a while.

There is some uncertainty, however, as to where Pouncey will line up upon his return after Philbin said last week he would explore all options to get the five best offensive linemen on the field.

Pouncey has played only center since joining the Dolphins as a first-round pick in 2011 and he was selected to the Pro Bowl at that position last season, but remember that he played guard at the University of Florida before moving inside for his senior year. Pouncey said he was simply ready to make a contribution to the Dolphins offense.

“I think I’ll make a big one,” he said. “Whatever position I’m playing at, it’s going to be for the better of the team.”

PLAYERS MOVING FORWARD

With versatile defensive lineman Derrick Shelby out of action after being suspended by the Dolphins for conduct detrimental to the team, it could be up to Terrence Fede and Anthony Johnson to make up for those snaps.

The two rookies say they’re up to the challenge.

“It’s football; I’ve been doing it for as long as I can remember,” Johnson said. “At the end of the day, I put in the work every day at practice and if it’s four snaps to 20 snaps, whatever the coaches need me to do, I’ll go in and do it.

“The coaches spoke to everybody on the unit and told everybody we have to pick it up. Shelby was a guy who was quiet but he came in and played high-quality 30-plus snaps. So at the end of the day, Terrence Fede has to step up at defensive end and myself on the inside to help take some of the pressure off those older guys.”

Johnson has appeared in all four games this season, while Fede made his NFL regular season debut in the 38-14 victory against the Oakland Raiders in London two Sundays ago.

“It’s big shoes to fill in, but I’m ready for the opportunity that I have,” Fede said. “Coach told me that when you’re out there, you’ve just got to give it your all, you’ve just got to hope for the best.”

The Miami Dolphins got right back to business on Monday following the team’s bye week after beating Oakland in London.

One of the things the team should be excited about heading into their game at home against the Green Packers is the fact Knowshon Moreno was back at practice this week. Wearing a brace on his left elbow, Moreno practiced for the first time since being injured in the first quarter of the Dolphins’ Week 2 game against the Buffalo Bills.

“It felt good to get out there on the field and just work out a little bit of the rust and get back on the field,” Moreno said. “I’m just going to go out and practice and get back into that practice mentality and then my game mentality when it comes. Once that stuff comes, everything else will take care of itself.”

Moreno had the highest rushing total in the NFL in the first week of the regular season when he gained 134 yards in the 33-20 victory against the New England Patriots, but was injured on his first rushing attempt against Buffalo.

Head Coach Joe Philbin said he was optimistic that Moreno could return to action soon, but the free agent acquisition must prove in practice that he’s ready.

“He has to prove out here that he can run, he can catch, he can block,” Philbin said. “He’s got to do a lot of things. If he can do all those things, that’d be great. But we’ll have to see.”

The Dolphins have looked better this season with the ground game, getting solid contributions from Moreno, Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas when he has been in the lineup.

POUNCEY READY

According to the team’s website, Mike Pouncey appears on track to make his season debut this weekend against the Green Bay Packers, and he said after practice Monday he was feeling great and as happy as he has been in a while.

There is some uncertainty, however, as to where Pouncey will line up upon his return after Philbin said last week he would explore all options to get the five best offensive linemen on the field.

Pouncey has played only center since joining the Dolphins as a first-round pick in 2011 and he was selected to the Pro Bowl at that position last season, but remember that he played guard at the University of Florida before moving inside for his senior year. Pouncey said he was simply ready to make a contribution to the Dolphins offense.

“I think I’ll make a big one,” he said. “Whatever position I’m playing at, it’s going to be for the better of the team.”

PLAYERS MOVING FORWARD

With versatile defensive lineman Derrick Shelby out of action after being suspended by the Dolphins for conduct detrimental to the team, it could be up to Terrence Fede and Anthony Johnson to make up for those snaps.

The two rookies say they’re up to the challenge.

“It’s football; I’ve been doing it for as long as I can remember,” Johnson said. “At the end of the day, I put in the work every day at practice and if it’s four snaps to 20 snaps, whatever the coaches need me to do, I’ll go in and do it.

“The coaches spoke to everybody on the unit and told everybody we have to pick it up. Shelby was a guy who was quiet but he came in and played high-quality 30-plus snaps. So at the end of the day, Terrence Fede has to step up at defensive end and myself on the inside to help take some of the pressure off those older guys.”

Johnson has appeared in all four games this season, while Fede made his NFL regular season debut in the 38-14 victory against the Oakland Raiders in London two Sundays ago.

“It’s big shoes to fill in, but I’m ready for the opportunity that I have,” Fede said. “Coach told me that when you’re out there, you’ve just got to give it your all, you’ve just got to hope for the best.”