Dolphins vs Patriots: 5 Halftime Adjustments Miami Must Make

The Miami Dolphins won't be enjoying any post-season success this year. But like any division rival, they would love to play Scrooge to the New England Patriots' Christmas wishes of grabbing the number one overall seed in the AFC playoffs.

The Dolphins have been finding their identity late this year, with the South Beach squad winning five of their past seven games and putting up some stellar offensive numbers in the process. If Miami wants to hinder their AFC East rival's playoff hopes they'll need to make these five half-time adjustments.

Let Matt Moore Air it Out:

The Dolphins came out with an impressive opening drive, leading to a Dan Carpenter 47-yard field goal, thanks in a large part to Matt Moore's arm. Miami's fill-in quarterback for the injured Chad Henne has turned the ball over just twice since the beginning of November. If Moore can continue his recent streak of making smart decisions, don't be surprised to see Miami's offense keep up with the Patriots.

Take Advantage of Patriots Offensive Line Adjustments: 

The Patriots offensive line is vulnerable with the shuffling they've had to do due to injuries. Miami has been able to pressure Tom Brady throughout the first half of play, beginning on their first drive and Yeremiah Bell's sack. The Pittsburgh Steelers laid the blueprint for this earlier in the season. If you can fluster and contain Brady, the Patriots offense struggles to put up points.

Feed Reggie Bush:

Reggie Bush came to Miami to become an every down back and he's done everything possible this season to prove he can do so. He's had three straight 100-plus yard games on the ground, with his career best 203-yard game against Buffalo coming just last weekend. The Patriots defense has struggled to keep the former USC Trojan from gaining a handful per attempt so far. If Bush can keep his hot streak going, Miami has a shot.

Shut Down the Patriots Rushing Attack:

The Dolphins were able to make the Patriots' running backs a non-factor throughout the first quarter and thus were able to focus in on Brady and the passing game. Bell and Jason Taylor drove the New England quarterback into the turf twice in the first quarter, with the pass rush overwhelming the Pats' O-Line.

Get the Ball to Brandon Marshall:

On the Dolphins' third drive of the game, Marshall was targeted the first two times—and both times lead to an incompletion. The third down miss was on Marshall, unable to rail in a perfect pass from Moore. Luckily for the 'Phins, the two were able to get on the same page for the first drive of the second quarter with two big passes from Moore to Marshall, the last of which leading to six points. Miami needs this connection to continue to produce into the second half.