Miami Dolphins Vault Back into the NFL

The Dolphins were the laughing stock of the league in 2007, winning only one game the entire season.

You could say that this season has already been a step up, as they've doubled their win column from last year already. The Dolphins sit third in the AFC East and have a chance at winning the division and possibly a wild card this year.

A bold statement, I know.

But consider the facts: The Patriots are Tom Brady-less, and the Bills just lost their starting quarterback Trent Edwards, and the Dolphins...well, with Chad Pennington leading the offense and Ronnie Brown picking up where he left off last year, look for the Dolphins to come back with a vengeance this year.

Their record may stand at 2-2, but they have beaten two of the league's toughest teams in the New England Patriots and the San Diego Chargers. The Dolphins went into the game against the Pats with something to prove, and they silenced New England as the Patriots seemingly gave away the ball game.

They also stunned the Chargers, holding LaDanian Tomlinson to 57 yards total.

The keys to success

Before he was injured last season, Brown was the best running back in the league, and it looks like he hasn't missed a beat. He rushed for three touchdowns and threw for one while he single-handedly embarrassed the Patriots.

The Wildcat offense.  If the Dolphins can master this offense, they will have defenses scrambling all over.  It's a brilliant idea, and so far it has worked.

Prediction

If Ronnie Brown can stay healthy, and if the defense can stay consistent, this will be the dark horse of the league. Look for them to go 9-7 or 8-8.

Welcome back to the league, Miami.