Patrick Paul Gears Up for High-Stakes Rematch with Myles Garrett
The anticipation is building for the Miami Dolphins’ upcoming clash with the Cleveland Browns, a game that may not capture the spotlight due to the teams’ combined struggles this season. However, for Miami Dolphins left tackle Patrick Paul, this Sunday’s matchup represents a significant opportunity to test his mettle against one of the NFL’s premier edge rushers—Myles Garrett.
Embracing the Challenge
Paul’s enthusiasm is palpable as he prepares for this rematch. “Definitely, he’s an excellent player, and I’m really excited to go against him,” Paul expressed to reporters earlier this week. He acknowledges Garrett’s exceptional talent, noting how even the best positioning can fall short against him. “You could watch him, a tackle could be in a great position, and he still wins. He’s a very, very good football player, so this is going to be really fun and I’m very excited.”
This matchup is not just another game for Paul; it’s a chance to demonstrate his growth and resilience after last season’s challenges. The last time he faced Garrett, in Week 17, he struggled significantly, allowing a sack, three pressures, and three hurries, with many of those attributed to Garrett’s relentless pursuit.
A Changed Landscape
The context surrounding Paul has shifted dramatically since that encounter. He was thrust into action last season due to an injury to starting left tackle Terron Armstead, entering the fray without a full week of preparation. It was only his sixth NFL appearance, a daunting task for any rookie facing a player of Garrett’s caliber.
Fast forward to this season, and Paul has solidified his role, starting in all six of Miami’s games. He has significantly improved his performance metrics, allowing just two sacks and seven pressures overall, according to Pro Football Focus. His technique has sharpened, and he has proven capable of holding his own in pass protection, showcasing the athleticism, length, and physicality that the Dolphins valued in him when they selected him.
While one game against a top-tier pass rusher like Garrett won’t define Paul’s career, a strong performance could cement his status as a franchise left tackle. Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel acknowledges the importance of this challenge, stating, “I think as competitors, you want players on your team who look for the competitive challenge of attacking some of the league’s best.”
Team Dynamics Against a Top Threat
McDaniel also emphasizes that while Paul bears responsibility for blocking Garrett, the effort is a collective one. The Dolphins’ offensive line must work in unison to mitigate Garrett’s impact. Historically, Garrett has lined up predominantly against the left tackle, with 237 snaps at right end compared to just 30 at left end this season. This suggests a likely showdown between Paul and Garrett as they battle it out on the field.
For the Dolphins, this game is more than just another week in a challenging season. It serves as a litmus test for Paul, a critical evaluation of whether he can be the cornerstone of their offensive line for years to come. As the Dolphins prepare for this pivotal matchup, all eyes will be on Paul—and the impact he can make against one of the league’s elite defenders.
