Miami Dolphins vs. Cleveland Browns: Can Miami Get Its First Win of 2011?

The Miami Dolphins have begun the season in lackluster fashion, dropping a pair of games to the New England Patriots and Houston Texans.

In their defense, those losses came at the hands of two of the best teams in the AFC and possibly the NFL.

But, now Miami faces the difficult task of playing catch-up in the vaunted AFC East.

Can they come up with a big road victory to turn around their dreadful start?

Use Daniel Thomas More

In his first NFL game ever, Thomas rushed for 107 yards on just 18 carries.

It didn't take long for the Dolphins to realize Reggie Bush won't be an every-down back, but in that same breathe they realized they may have a stud in Thomas.

Expect Miami to feed Thomas the ball and rely on Bush in the passing game.

Find the 2010 Defensive Intensity

For a defense that ranked among the elite in the NFL in 2010, the Dolphins have left a lot to be desired in their first two games.

Ranking near the bottom in both passing and rushing defense, Miami will look to step up the intensity against the Browns.

Look for a more aggressive approach against young Colt McCoy, looking to force turnovers early on.

Utilize Playmakers

Brandon Marshall has developed into the big-play threat he was two seasons ago, averaging 16.8 yards a reception.

Chad Henne will need to continue to feed him the ball, especially near the end zone.

The more opportunities Marshall has inside the 20, the better off the Dolphins will be.

Recipe for Success

It's no mystery that the Miami Dolphins play better away from South Beach.

That combined with these few keys will undoubtedly lead to a win in Cleveland, sending the Dolphins back into the pack in the AFC.