The New England Patriots got back in the win column in Week 8 with a 24-19 victory over the Miami Dolphins.

It was a hard-fought win in which the Patriots overcame a double-digit halftime deficit to defeat a division rival on the road. The team was down multiple starters heading into the game, but they stepped up in the second half to ruin the Dolphins' upset plans.

The win offered several important takeaways about the team's depth, offensive playmakers and growing chemistry as the 2026 season progresses.

Let’s take a look at three things we learned about the Patriots in the key AFC East divisional win.

1. Patriots' defensive tackles are ready to step up

New England's defensive tackle depth proved to be dependable in the win over Miami.

Cory Durden delivered a disruptive performance, recording 1.5 sacks, two tackles for loss and three quarterback hits. He consistently pressured Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis and played a major role in disrupting his flow in the game.

DaQuan Jones also contributed an assisted tackle and a pass defended, demonstrating that New England has reliable reinforcements capable of maintaining its defensive standard.

2. DeMario Douglas remains a high-quality threat with touchdown prowess

Douglas continued proving his value as a productive receiving option for the Patriots, as he finished with three catches for 76 yards and a 48-yard touchdown.

His knack for finding the end zone, including his success as a first-touchdown scorer for New England last season has carried over into 2026. More importantly, he has managed to step up with multiple playmakers sidelined with injuries. Wide receivers A.J. Brown, Mack Hollins and Romeo Doubs missed Sunday's game against the Dolphins. And tight end Hunter Henry left the game early with a foot injury.

Douglas has maintained his level of production from last season and remains a reliable, go-to target for Maye in tough situations.

3. The Patriots’ early-season woes appear to be history

After opening the season at 1-2, New England has won four of its last five games, with a tough loss to the Chicago Bears in Week 7 representing the team’s only blemish in that span. The Patriots increasingly look like a cohesive unit and have displayed improved resilience, confidence and chemistry in the last five weeks.

The win over Miami provided another indication that the team is past its early-season struggles and has momentum on its side for the middle portion of the year.

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