2023 NFL Power Rankings: Miami Dolphins

Tua Tagovailoa leads the NFL in passing yards (2,416) and passing touchdowns (18) through eight games, which has him firmly in the NFL MVP running. His offseason jiu-jitsu training has paid off so far -- he hasn't been hit often, but when he is contacted he has been able to protect himself from injury. It's the type of year that should lead to a sizable contract this offseason -- as long as he remains healthy and the Dolphins keep winning. -- Marcel Louis-Jacques

If they can find a way to get the offensive line in some sort of functional shape, the Dolphins should be OK. The imminent returns of Terron Armstead and Connor Williams will be a boon, although Robert Hunt's situation tempers the optimism around that unit a bit. De'Von Achane will be eligible to come off IR after the Germany game, and that would be another big boost. The secondary also can get better from within, once Xavien Howard and Jevon Holland are in the lineup again. Jalen Ramsey's debut in Sunday's win over the Patriots was more than anyone could have hoped for. He had an interception, was active in run support and played nearly the whole game. It feels like Miami picked up a starter at the trade deadline.

Tua Tagovailoa owns Bill Belichick after beating him for the sixth straight time. Now they face a big game against the Chiefs in Germany.

At 6-2 and leading their division, are they the AFC's best team? They remain the league's most explosive squad, topping the charts in rush yards, pass yards and points — production they hope translates with the European exchange rate Sunday in Germany. Regardless, look for a 16th-ranked defense to trend up if Xavien Howard rejoins fellow CB Jalen Ramsey between the lines soon.

Something scary (for others): Jalen Ramsey is back.

The veteran safety returned against the Patriots, just 94 days after suffering a meniscus tear in the preseason. The seventh-year cornerback had an interception that he returned 49 yards in his Dolphins debut, which will open up even more options for defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. The Dolphins are 16th in the league in defense (allowing 329.4 yards per game). If that improves and the offense keeps humming, Miami will be a problem.

The Pats made them work for it, but a 14-point division win is nothing to scoff at. But let's not worry too much about Week 8. Sunday brings another chance for the Dolphins to go up against a heavyweight. They were outclassed by the Bills and Eagles, but maybe Miami can earn some legitimacy with a win against the Chiefs.

Jalen Ramsey had an impact right away in his return. He had a big interception and the Patriots practically refused to throw to his side.

Mac Jones was 4 of 7 for 5 yards and an interception targeting the left side of the field, and 15 of 21 for 156 yards & 2 TDs targeting the middle and right thirds.

Jalen Ramsey played at right cornerback on 100% of his 47 defensive snaps in his season debut.#NEvsMIA | #FinsUp pic.twitter.com/aBLKXEhS52

— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) October 29, 2023

It will be very interesting to see how good the Dolphins can be if they ever get close to full health.

Germany gets the best game the NFL has ever exported, with a pair of top-five teams.

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