Matchups: Dolphins-Cardinals players to watch

September 28, 2012|By Omar Kelly, Staff Writer

Sunday's game between the Miami Dolphins and the Arizona Cardinals will put two teams with contrasting styles of play up against each other. Miami's ground-and-pound, run stuffing approach goes up against Arizona's air it out offense, and a defense that gets after quarterbacks (12 sacks).

Dolphins C Mike Pouncey vs. Cardinals NT Dan Williams

Pouncey, the Dolphins' 2011 first-round pick, has come into his own as a second-year starter. He's the main reason the offensive line is paving the way for the Dolphins to average 175.7 rushing yards a game, and 5.0 yards per carry. His second-level blocks open up the big play for Miami's tailbacks.

Williams, who has tallied three tackles in two games, is the type of nose tackle that usually requires extra attention.

If Pouncey struggles moving Williams off the line the Dolphins' running game could be grounded.

Cardinals WR Larry Fitzgerald vs. the Dolphins cornerbacks

Fitzgerald, a six-time Pro Bowler, is an undeniable weapon who typically makes plays even when he's double teamed.

The last time Fitzgerald faced the Dolphins he caught six passes for 153 yards, and that was despite facing plenty of safety help.

Sean Smith has the size and athleticism to hang with Fitzgerald downfield but the Dolphins rarely move him from the left boundary. That means Fitzgerald can attack Miami's lesser cornerbacks.

If the Cardinals use plenty three receiver sets Nolan Carroll could be lining up opposite Fitzgerald on a regular basis because Richard Marshall mans the nickel spot in that package.

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