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Patriots: Why 2021 matchups with Dolphins will be different

Dec 20, 2020; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) scores a touchdown past New England Patriots defensive tackle Byron Cowart (99) during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Dolphins have built a defensively-minded team and are a legitimate playoff threat.

When the New England Patriots play the Miami Dolphins in the Sept. 12 season opener for both teams, they will encounter a team building a fundamentally sound defense under head coach Brian Flores and defensive coordinator Josh Boyer, although most of their main additions came on offense this season.