Patriots, Dolphins Battle Amid Injury Challenges

The New England Patriots face significant challenges due to injuries ahead of their game against the Miami Dolphins. Key defensive players, safeties Jabrill Peppers and Kyle Dugger, are ruled out, leaving the secondary vulnerable against Miami's formidable offense. To mitigate these absences, safety Marte Mapu will make his season debut. On offense, wide receiver Kendrick Bourne returns after recovering from an ACL injury, potentially boosting their passing game. The Patriots' offensive line also sees changes with Vederian Lowe and Michael Jordan returning from injuries. Meanwhile, the Dolphins will play without star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, and safety Jordan Poyer is ruled out, but they regain several critical players, including Terron Armstead and Kendall Fuller, enhancing their lineup.