The Cincinnati Bengals enter Week 5 at 2-2 after back-to-back fourth-quarter losses. They now travel to Miami to face a Dolphins team that is still looking for its first win of the season. Here are six things to know about Cincinnati’s Week 5 opponent.
Malik Willis Is Leading a Struggling Passing Attack
Miami made major changes at quarterback during the offseason. Malik Willis is now leading the offense under head coach Jeff Hafley. The Dolphins have struggled to move the ball through the air. In Sunday’s 15-10 loss to Minnesota, Willis threw for just 85 yards, while Miami finished with only 77 passing yards.
The Dolphins are averaging just 267.5 total yards per game, ranking 30th in the league. They are also averaging only 11.5 points per game, the lowest in the league. If Cincinnati’s defense wants to bounce back after allowing big plays to Jacksonville, it should focus on stopping the run and forcing Willis to win through the air.
Miami’s Running Game Has Changed Without De’Von Achane
De’Von Achane suffered a season-ending ACL injury in Week 3, leaving Miami without its biggest threat in the backfield. Ollie Gordon II has stepped up with 148 rushing yards and two rushing touchdowns through four games.
He gave the offense a much-needed spark against Minnesota. The Dolphins running back rushed for 100 yards and a touchdown on just nine carries.
Zach Sieler and Chop Robinson Can Create Problems
Amarius Mims has been incredible in pass protection, but the rest of Cincinnati’s offensive line will face a tough test against Miami’s pass rush.
Zach Sieler recorded two sacks against Minnesota, while Chop Robinson added a sack and three quarterback hits. Josh Uche also recorded a sack. If Joe Burrow drops back 50-plus times again, Miami’s front could create serious pressure.
Third Downs and Time of Possession Are Miami’s Biggest Problems
Miami has struggled to sustain drives during its 0-4 start. Against Minnesota, the Dolphins converted just 2 of 9 third downs and ran only 37 offensive plays. The Vikings ran 72 plays and held the ball for 39:11, compared to just 20:49 for Miami. Cincinnati needs to win on early downs and force Miami into long third downs.
Malik Washington Leads a New Look Receiver Group
With Tyreek Hill released and Jaylen Waddle traded to Denver, Miami has a very different receiver group this season. Malik Washington has emerged as one of Willis’ main targets. He recorded five receptions for 67 yards against Minnesota.
Miami does not have the same level of proven speed it had with Hill and Waddle. That gives Cincinnati’s secondary a chance to play more aggressively.
Linebackers Jacob Rodriguez and Jordyn Brooks Clean Up Everything Inside
Miami’s defense played its best game of the season against Minnesota. Rookie linebacker Jacob Rodriguez led the team with 18 tackles, while Jordyn Brooks added 13.
That will be an important matchup for Cincinnati’s struggling run game. The Bengals managed only 23 rushing yards against Jacksonville. Their offensive line and tight ends will need to block Rodriguez and Brooks well if Cincinnati wants Chase Brown to get going.
