Monday, September 30, 2013

Miami Dolphins vs. New Orleans Saints






For the first time in 15 years, two teams with records of 3-0 or better will meet on "Monday Night Football" when the New Orleans Saints (3-0) host the Miami Dolphins (3-0). Here’s what to watch for tonight: 
The Saints have a ton of offensive weapons, but contraining tight end Jimmy Graham has to be priority No. 1 for the Dolphins. Three of the four touchdown passes the Dolphins have allowed this year have gone to tight ends, and Graham brings that threat to a whole other level. 
“His production over the last two weeks has been off the charts,” Miami coach Joe Philbin said. “He obviously has great size and weight. He seems to be a natural running down the field and going up and catching the ball. He can catch the ball in traffic. He can catch the ball when he gets hit. He has excellent concentration and hands. His size and length are an issue, and it’s a concern when you go play him. He has done a great job.” 

The lifelong friendship of Dolphins receiver Mike Wallace and Saints cornerback Keenan Lewis makes for a great backstory. The two New Orleans-area natives, who describe each other as “brothers” will go head to head as opponents for the first time since they were kids. But there’s much more on the line than just their personal rivalry. Their matchup will be one of the most critical elements of the game for both teams. 

The Dolphins signed Wallace to give them the big-play threat they needed, and the Saints signed Lewis to help prevent the big plays that tormented them last year. So far, the Saints’ secondary has done an outstanding job of preventing deep balls this year, but Wallace and receiver Brian Hartline will test them tonight.