The Miami Dolphins are set to face the Atlanta Falcons in a rare road matchup, marking their first trip to Atlanta since 2017. They return to Mercedes-Benz Stadium, where they aim to remain undefeated after their last visit was memorably sealed by a late-game interception from Atlanta native and former Miami safety Reshad Jones.
This time, another versatile safety, Minkah Fitzpatrick, will be central to Miami’s game plan. In his second stint with the team, the five-time Pro Bowler is delivering a standout 2025 season, allowing a passer rating of just 77.1 with an interception and three pass breakups. Forced into the nickel role by injuries, Fitzpatrick has showcased his adaptability, covering various positions before shifting back to safety on key third downs and lining up across the formation.
Fitzpatrick’s flexibility will be crucial against a diverse and potent Atlanta offense. His assignments will range from covering tight ends and playing deep safety to providing run support and blitzing the quarterback. The Falcons feature tight end Kyle Pitts, who is enjoying a career-best start while splitting his time between the slot, out wide, and attached to the line. Physical receiver Drake London presents another challenge, particularly from the slot, where he ranks 10th in the NFL in yards per route run.
Rounding out the attack is running back Bijan Robinson, who leads the league with 46 forced missed tackles—10 more than the next closest player—and ranks sixth with 524 rushing yards. Dolphins Defensive Coordinator Anthony Weaver compared Robinson’s dynamic skill set to that of Chris Johnson and Marshall Faulk, highlighting his explosive downhill speed and pass-catching ability.
Miami’s offense faces an equally formidable challenge. The Falcons’ defense, now led by coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, has been retooled with key additions like outside linebacker Dante Fowler and first-round edge rushers Jalon Walker and James Pearce Jr. While this unit leads the NFL with a 39.8 percent blitz rate, it complements a remade secondary that has become the league’s top-ranked pass defense.
Anchored by rookie safeties Xavier Watts and Billy Bowman Jr., Atlanta’s defense is built on versatility and aggression, allowing just 144.5 passing yards per game and securing seven interceptions.
With tight end Darren Waller on injured reserve, the Dolphins’ offense will heavily rely on its primary playmakers. Running back De’Von Achane and wide receiver Jaylen Waddle will be crucial, as the duo has already combined for 1,088 yards from scrimmage, accounting for 53 percent of the team’s total.
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