Keys to Victory for Dolphins vs. Colts in Week 7

The Miami Dolphins head to Indianapolis for a Week 7 matchup against the Colts, and they’ve got a real chance to right the ship after a shaky start to the season. With some favorable injury news and a Colts team that’s struggling, here are the keys to victory for Miami as they look to get back on track.

1. Pound the Rock

Run. The. Ball. It’s really that simple. The Dolphins are coming off a game where they racked up 193 rushing yards against a tough Patriots defense, which ranks ninth in the league against the run. Now they face the Colts, who sit 31st in rushing defense. If Miami could dominate the ground game last week, this matchup should be an even bigger opportunity. With Jonathan Taylor out for the Colts, ball control and winning the time-of-possession battle become even more critical.

Raheem Mostert, De’Von Achane, and Jaylen Wright are key to this offensive game plan. Collectively, they accounted for 184 of those 193 rushing yards last week, and they added more in the receiving game. Against a Colts defense that can’t stop the run, Miami has to double down on their success from last week and impose their will on the ground.

2. Tighten Up the Discipline

Penalties have been killing the Dolphins this season. With 43 penalties, they’re tied for the fifth most in the league, and that’s after having a bye week. They’re averaging 8.6 penalties per game, the worst in the NFL. If they want to have any chance of turning their season around, they need to show some discipline, especially on the road. Giving away free yardage and extending Colts drives with sloppy mistakes is a surefire way to lose this game.

3. Pressure Anthony Richardson

Rookie quarterback Anthony Richardson has shown flashes of brilliance, but he’s still raw. His completion percentage is hovering around 50%, and while his legs make him a threat, his overall yardage—both rushing and passing—hasn’t been overwhelming. The Dolphins’ defense, ranked third against the pass, can exploit Richardson’s inexperience by bringing pressure early and often.

Miami’s pass rush has been inconsistent, but this is the week to dial it up. With the Colts’ starting center banged up and key offensive linemen questionable, Miami’s front seven has to create havoc and force Richardson into bad decisions.

4. Third-Down Dominance

This is where the Dolphins can really tilt the game in their favor. Miami’s defense has been the best in the league on third down, allowing conversions just 25.5% of the time. Meanwhile, the Colts rank 28th in third-down defense. The Dolphins need to take advantage of this disparity. If Miami’s defense can continue to lock down third downs, they’ll give their offense more chances to capitalize on the Colts’ vulnerabilities.

5. Limit Turnovers

While Miami’s defense has been stingy, they haven’t forced as many takeaways as you’d like—just four on the season. On the other side, the Colts have given the ball away eight times. This is a prime opportunity for the Dolphins’ defense to flip the script and generate some extra possessions. Offensively, Miami has to avoid putting the ball in harm’s way, especially given their struggles in the passing game.

6. Don’t Let Mahomes Syndrome Sneak In

One trap the Dolphins must avoid is underestimating the Colts simply because they’ve struggled. Look at what happens with teams like Kansas City—everyone doubts them during the regular season, only for them to show up when it matters. While the Colts aren’t the Chiefs, they do have a puncher’s chance, especially with their young quarterback. Miami needs to stay focused and not let their guard down.

This Week 7 game presents a golden opportunity for Miami. The Colts are battered by injuries, including the absence of Jonathan Taylor, and Miami is getting healthier at just the right time. If the Dolphins stick to their strengths, run the ball effectively, and clean up the penalties, they should walk away with a much-needed win.

This could be the reverse of what we’ve seen the past few years. Instead of starting hot and fading, the Dolphins have a chance to heat up at the perfect time.