With the New England Patriots and Miami Dolphins locked in a low-scoring battle, the defenses made big plays were made in the first quarter to keep the game tight. Following a Rhamondre Stevenson fumble, the Dolphins were in good field position to score their second touchdown of the game.

Strong defensive playmaking by the New England Patriots managed to put the Dolphins out of field goal range. The biggest play of the drive was a sack by linebacker Kyle Van Noy to halt Miami momentum. It was the linebacker’s first sack of the season, and it put the Dolphins out of field goal range.

Van Noy looked particularly amped to lock the sack, likely because he was playing against his former team, who surprisingly cut him after just one year.

SACK! Matt Judon absolutely tosses the RB to allow Kyle Van Noy and Dont'a Hightower to get to Tua on 3rd down! #Patriots pic.twitter.com/67LSyRJuN2

— Casey Baker – New Account (@_CaseyBaker) September 12, 2021

As the game progresses, it will be intriguing to see how much defense will play a role in Sunday’s contest.