3 standout stars for Patriots’ Week 17 victory over Dolphins
The New England Patriots are now at 8-8, and they are just one win away of clinching the seventh spot in the 2022 NFL playoffs.
They beat the Dolphins 23-21. This was a day when the defense controlled the game, and the offense showed a pulse for full play for the first-time since their Thanksgiving Day matchup with the Minnesota Vikings.
The Patriots were able to shut down Miami’s offense and actually win a game where the opponent scored more than 17 points. A few key players were responsible for the Patriots’ victory.
These are the top stars of Week 17.
First Star: Christian Barmore
Christian Barmore has made progress since his injury, which lasted most of his second season. He had seven QB pressures and three QB hits against the Dolphins.
Barmore has been quiet due to injuries, but when he has played, he is consistently drawing double teams to the point where he looks like the Patriots’ best player on defense. It’s a welcoming sight considering how great he looked at training camp.
However, his remarkable strides were overshadowed in the face of the team’s offensive woes, which made the headline. Barmore is a difference-maker. He should now be a problem to opposing offensive lines.
Second Star: Jabrill Peppers
Peppers was a great player on all fronts. He did a great job in the slot and, when asked, was able to recognize blocks and stop the run.
He’s definitely a player the Patriots need to re-up in the offseason, as his contract is set to expire after this season. New England signed him up to a one-year, prove-it deal after he had suffered a major injury. The 27-year-old defensive player should be considered for an extension.
Peppers finished Sunday’s game against the Dolphins with eight total tackles on a day when the Patriots lacked depth in the defensive backfield.
Kyle Dugger, Third Star
Kyle Dugger is the Patriots’ best playmaker, and this week showed it yet again. The Patriots finally got the spark they needed with three tackles from Dugger and an interception by Dugger.
The standout safety has been blossoming into one of the NFL’s best defensive talents, and this game was no different. Dugger and Peppers were one of the main reasons the Patriots were able to shut down the Dolphins’ pass catchers.
The Patriots could have one the most respected safety duos in the league if they sign Dugger and resign Peppers.
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