3 BIG Questions

Here are the lingering issues from this game we’ll likely be talking about all week:

Pass rush finally here? The Patriots came into Sunday's game with just 17 sacks on the season, ranked 28th in the league. However, the defense got after Miami Dolphins quarterback Matt Moore early and often in the 35-17 win with seven sacks. But if the injuries to defensive end Trey Flowers and linebacker Kyle Van Noy are serious, then the pass rush will take a big hit.

Injury woes? The Patriots' injury picture got worse yesterday. Flowers came off the field with a rib injury in the third quarter after making a sack. Right tackle LaAdrian Waddle, who was filling in for starter Marcus Cannon, also left the field with an ankle injury. Not long after that, Van Noy also came out of the game with a leg injury after making a sack. In the first quarter, special teamer Nate Ebner went down with a knee injury after a surprising fake punt rush for a first down.

Sloppy play?

Sunday's game lacked energy, and perhaps the Pats fell victim to the absence of drama their opponent provided. For example: Tom Brady threw an interception, center Ted Karras snapped the ball before Brady was ready and gave the Dolphins an easy touchdown, and the Patriots committed seven penalties for 70 yards. It didn't matter in the end, but the Pats were not on their A-game.