Super Special

Now THAT is how you play the game of football! The Miami Dolphins improved to 3-2 with a clutch overtime victory over the reeling Green Bay Packers. A win is always appreciated, but this one felt that much more special. Why? Because we won it with special teams.

If you remember, before the bye week, the Dolphins had just fired their special teams Coach following that debacle at home against the New England Patriots. The special teams played so horribly allowing a blocked punt, kick, (which was returned for a touchdown.) and a kick-off return for a score. That is unacceptable in the pro levels, and the Dolphins made sure to correct their mistakes.

They took a week off, and it showed in their preparation. Early on there was signs of the special teams falling apart when one of Miami Punter, Brandon Fields' punts was partially blocked. Thankfully that did not result in anything costly. It was mostly smooth sailing from then on out.

Dan Carpenter, last years Pro Bowl kicker, showed his worth as well. He was perfect on the day making all three of his field goals as well as his two point after try (or PAT for short) attempts. Carpenter even had to retry one of his kicks because of a Miami penalty. He made the first attempt, was forced to move back ten extra yards and still managed to kick it straight through the goal posts.

The Packers were a resilient bunch, however and forced Miami who was leading most of the game into overtime with a late TD by quarterback Aaron Rodgers.

Miami persevered in the end. After both teams had less then impressive opening overtime drives, Miami was left with favorable field position and the rest is history. Carpenter lined up in OT and kicked Miami into the win column.

By the way, this was in Lambeau Field; a place not known for easy wins from the road team.

What makes this win feel special is that the team corrected their mistakes and used that same area that was a concern into the reason for victory. The special teams were special on that day. let's hope that carries over when the 4-1 Pittsburgh Steelers come into Miami this weekend. Green Bay was a team riddled with injuries, and the Steelers are not and set up for a fantastic season. Pittsburgh welcomed back Ben Roethlisberger after his four game suspension for off the field issues. It's not going to be tough, but Miami has yet to win at home this year.

Against the Steelers would be a nice way to start.