3 X-Factors for the Miami Dolphins to Beat the Patriots in Week 8

The Miami Dolphins are coming off of their first win of the season last week against the New York Jets. It was a hard-fought game, but Jeff Hafley and company came out with a 28-25 win.

While it was nice to celebrate a win for a change, this week gets much more difficult. The Dolphins are set to face off against the New England Patriots.

Coming into this week's game, the Patriots are heavily favored to win. Drake Maye and New England have not been as good as many expected, but they are still among the potential Super Bowl contenders in the AFC.

All of that being said, let's take a look at three X-Factors who must step up for Miami to come away with a second straight victory.

Malik Willis, Quarterback

Nobody will be surprised to see Malik Willis on this list. The first-year Dolphins starting quarterback has played solid football this year, but the Patriots' defense will give him a tough test.

Willis has completed 57.6 percent of his pass attempts for 1,057 yards, four touchdowns, and four interceptions this season, while also running for 223 yards and three more scores. He has shown signs of being a potential long-term option for Miami.

In order to knock off New England, Willis will need to play mistake-free football. The Dolphins simply cannot afford turnovers. That will be up to Willis to move the football while also taking care of it.

The Entire Defensive Line

Next up, Miami has to find a way to put pressure on Maye. He is an elite quarterback when he has time. When he is pressured, mistakes can happen.

Josh Uche will be a key player, while also having extra motivation by playing his former team. Chop Robinson will also be leaned on to get after the quarterback.

If the Dolphins can win the line of scrimmage and keep Maye uncomfortable, they will give themselves a fighting chance.

Ollie Gordon II, Running Back

Thirdly and finally, Miami will need to establish a running game this week. Taking pressure off of Willis and the aerial attack will be a must for the Dolphins.

Unfortunately, De'Von Achane isn't walking through the door for Miami. That leaves the heavy-lifting to Ollie Gordon II.

Gordon is coming off of a big game against New York. He carried the football 25 times for 103 yards and a touchdown. If he can replicate that success, the Dolphins' offense should be able to move the football and have a chance to score with New England.