The Dolphins come off their bye week Sunday and welcome the San Diego Chargers (2-2) to Miami. After the Dolphins’ defeat of the Patriots two weeks ago, a lot may be expected going forward this season from the team. They have proven they are not completely inept on offense and that their defense is capable of stepping up, but how will they fare against the Chargers?

The key match up will be the Dolphins passing game against the Chargers passing defense. The Dolphins were able to use their fantastic run game 2 weeks ago to work in the pass against the Patriots, and with the Chargers boasting (if you can call it that) the WORST pass defense in the league (and it isn’t even close), Pennington and company could have a good day through the air.

On the opposite side of the ball, the Dolphins defense could struggle. The Chargers have made it clear this year that in the absence of a good defense to lean on they are just going to try and out score everyone, not good news for the Dolphins defense. Chargers QB Phillip Rivers is no Matt Cassel and is very comfortable with his offensive tools, WRs Chris Chambers and Vincent Jackson, and TE Antonio Gates. Rivers is this 2nd leading passer in the NFL and is probably licking his chops in hopes that the Miami defense that shows up is that from week 2 in Arizona. 

Also of concern for the Dolphins defense should be the improving health of LaDainian Tomlinson and the new two headed running game of the Chargers. After lack luster performances in week 1 and 2, Tomlinson has been on the rebound and gashed the Raiders last week for 106yds and 2 TDs. His back up Darren Sproles is as fast and shifty as they come and will not only hurt you from the backfield, but catching passes and returning kicks.

The Miami Dolphins better come ready to play if they hope to contain all the monsters on the San Diego offense. If not, this game could get ugly early. That being said, the Dolphins have the tools on offense to try and exploit the Chargers poor pass defense and the running game to control the clock. My guess, the Chargers will walk away victors in the end by 5pts.