Patriots Coach Mike Vrabel Sees Win Over Dolphins as Season Blueprint.

The New England Patriots got the bounce-back win they were seeking in Week 2 on Sunday, responding to adversity with resilience and big plays. After giving up a 74-yard punt return for a Miami touchdown, the Patriots answered with a 90-yard kickoff return score and a late defensive stand to secure the victory—a type of performance Patriots coach Mike Vrabel wants his team to emulate all season.

“It just takes one play,” Vrabel said, reflecting on his first win as Patriots coach. “I felt like we were willing to get into a street fight. We had a little lull, and we didn’t pack it up and quit.”

The win ended a five-game losing streak in Miami for New England. Quarterback Drake Maye noted the significance of winning a one-score game, something the Patriots struggled with last season, going just 3-6 in such contests. Maye contributed three touchdowns on Sunday—two passing, one rushing—while completing 19 of 23 passes.

What’s Working

The offensive line improved markedly from Week 1, allowing three sacks and just two pressures, compared with four sacks and 15 pressures against Las Vegas. New England’s offense averaged 6.1 yards per play, up from 4.9 in the opener.

Penalties remain an area for improvement, with 12 penalties costing 75 yards on Sunday, slightly worse than Week 1.

Stock Up: Antonio Gibson. After Miami briefly took the lead late in the fourth quarter, Gibson’s 90-yard kickoff return touchdown swung the momentum and gave the Patriots a lead they would not relinquish.

Stock Down: Rookie kicker Andy Borregales. He missed both extra-point attempts but made two field goals, including a 53-yarder late in the fourth quarter. Vrabel has indicated there are no plans to replace him despite the struggles.

Injuries & Staff Updates

Cornerback Christian Gonzalez missed his second consecutive game with a hamstring injury but may play this week as he continues to improve. Defensive coordinator Terrell Williams, who took a leave of absence last week for health reasons, will return in some capacity.

Key Number

3 of 4 — Patriots’ success rate inside the red zone, an improvement from 1 of 3 in Week 1.

Next Steps

New England hosts the Pittsburgh Steelers, led by 41-year-old quarterback Aaron Rodgers, who are coming off a loss to Seattle. The Patriots will aim to build on the momentum from their Week 2 performance.