The Patriots today are missing some thump from their lineup without tight end Ben Watson and former Dolphin running back Sammy Morris, but they should have enough depth to overcome that problem against the Miami Dolphins, who, despite the presence of Jason Taylor, still aren't the formidable defense of 'Fish teams past. The Patriots will still need to use their running game against a Miami defense that can't stop the run, even if it means reaching down to Heath Evans and Kyle Eckel if Laurence Maroney isn't able to go, or not at full strength. That will take pressure off Tom Brady when Taylor comes calling. Tom Brady, New England. Cleo Lemon, Miami. Should say it all right there.

PATRIOTS 30, MIAMI 13

The Patriots on Saturday announced that five players were downgraded to OUT for today's game at Miami, including tight end Ben Watson, who injured his ankle in last week's win at Dallas. Watson's absence means an increased role for Kyle Brady and also Marcellus Rivers, who has been signed, released, and re-signed over and over again since late in the preseason.

Also out with injuries are running back Sammy Morris, linebacker Eric Alexander, defensive lineman Mike Wright and special teamer Mel Mitchell. It's likely that none of these players made the trip. Morris is no surprise, as his chest/collarbone injury, according to some reports, will keep him out the next month. Not having Wright, as has been the case in a couple of games this year, further depletes the team's defensive line depth, as Richard Seymour remains in PUP.

--- TOM KING