Green Bay Packers 2018 opponent preview: Miami Dolphins
A closer look at the Miami Dolphins, who the Green Bay Packers meet in Week 10.
Four years ago the Green Bay Packers won a thriller on a hot Miami day. Down by four points with just three seconds remaining, Aaron Rodgers found tight end Andrew Quarless for the game-winning touchdown.
The drive included a fake spike that saw Davante Adams put the team in striking distance with just a few seconds remaining.
A lot has happened in the four years since. This time, the Miami Dolphins return to Lambeau Field for the first time in eight years.
Last season
The Dolphins finished a disappointing 6-10 last year, third in the AFC East. They failed to make consecutive playoff appearances after securing a wild-card berth in 2016.
When is the game?
The Packers host the Dolphins at Lambeau Field in Week 10. The game kicks off at 12 noon CT on Sunday, Nov. 11. It’s Green Bay’s only home game in a five-week stretch.
Offseason additions
Former Packers guard Josh Sitton will return to Lambeau Field this season, as the Dolphins signed him in free agency. Miami also signed wide receivers Danny Amendola and Albert Wilson. They did trade away Jarvis Landry to the Cleveland Browns, however.
In the draft, the Dolphins landed one of the top defensive backs in the entire class at No. 11 in Minkah Fitzpatrick. He would have been a great fit in Mike Pettine’s defense. Instead, the Packers will have to play against him.
Interestingly, the Dolphins didn’t draft a quarterback. They are moving forward with Ryan Tannehill. Behind him on the depth chart is Brock Osweiler (signed with the Dolphins in March), Bryce Petty and David Fales.
Last meeting with Packers
October 12, 2014: Packers won 27-24 at Sun Life Stadium
Player to watch
Kenyan Drake: Despite signing Frank Gore in free agency and selecting Kalen Ballage in the fourth round, Drake should be the featured back.
To me, Gore is nothing more than a depth option who will play a limited role. Gore turned 35 this month.
Drake’s ability as both a runner and receiver makes him particularly concerning for the Packers’ defense. They have struggled to stop receiving backs in recent years.
Drake will likely take on a bigger role in 2018. With Landry gone, he could get opportunities in the slot.
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The 2016 third-round pick impressed last season, and stopping him will be high on the priority list for Packers defensive coordinator Mike Pettine.