On The Beat - 5 questions with Miami writer Adam Beasley: Dolphins 'shell of the team that visited Foxboro in Week 4'

Every week, we go deep on the Patriots’ next opponent with our “5 questions…” feature where we check in with a writer who covers New England’s next opponent. For this week’s game against the Dolphins, we talk with our buddy Adam Beasley of the Miami Herald. Check him out on Twitter here.

1. How have the Dolphins changed since these two teams first met in September?



The Dolphins are a shell of the team that visited Foxboro in Week 4. They have 10 players on injured reserve, including half their starting offense. There's a reason they have the third-fewest yards in football.

2. If Xavien Howard and/or Danny Amendola don’t play or are limited, how does that change the complexion of this game?

Howard has been ruled out with a knee injury. Sounds like Amendola will play. Howard hasn't been just the Dolphins' best defensive player; he's been arguably the best corner in the league. When quarterbacks throw at any other Dolphins defender, good things usually happen.

3. Is there an under-the-radar type on the Miami roster who might be capable of surprising people come Sunday?

Brice Butler. Coaches can't stop raving about the veteran wide receiver. The Dolphins are basically out of weapons, so you could see a big game from the big target.

4. In your experience, what are some of the commonalities when it comes to the Dolphins’ late-season wins over the Patriots down there?

Heat. Humidity. And the Dolphins perform at a high level. It's that simple. Everybody gets up for the Patriots, particularly Miami at home.

5. Miami wins Sunday if….

…Tom Brady throws four picks.