Lions Week 9 preview: Breaking down Dolphins’ offensive, defensive schemes

Key Points:

• The Detroit Lions (5-2) aim to extend their three-game winning streak against the struggling Miami Dolphins (1-6) in Week 9, with Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley praised for his first-year impact and the team's youthful, disciplined play style.
• Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley, in his first NFL head coaching season, brings a defensive background influenced by Robert Saleh and Greg Schiano, while offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik runs a Shanahan Spread offense focused on play-action and outside zone running.
• Miami's offense relies heavily on RB Ollie Gordon for downhill rushing and features a young receiving corps led by WR Malik Washington, but struggles with pass protection and passing efficiency, ranking near the bottom in passing yards and pressure allowed.
• Defensively, the Dolphins employ a 4-3 Wide-9 base with zone-heavy coverage but have low blitz rates and generate minimal pressure, ranking near the bottom in sacks and pressures, though recent games show some improvement in pass rush.
• Lions coach Dan Campbell highlights Miami's athletic offensive line and versatile scheme, as well as key defensive players like DL Zach Sieler and CB Chris Johnson, noting the Dolphins' hunger and improving performance despite their poor record.