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KEY MATCHUP

Washington vs. Ruddy

The Patriots "46" defense held Ricky Williams to 94 yards on 27 attempts in their first meeting with the Dolphins Oct. 19. But playing eight men near the line of scrimmage may have left New England vulnerable at times against the pass.

The Patriots were without Ted Washington (broken leg) in that game. Washington came back three weeks ago against the Cowboys and his presence in the lineup and ability to clog the middle allows New England to do what it needs to out of its base 3-4.

The big man has been involved in several big plays against the run since his return. Stopping Williams again will be priority No. 1, and if Washington can dominate former Pro Bowler Tim Ruddy the way he does most centers, then it will be up to quarterback Jay Fiedler to beat the Patriots. They'll take their chances.

MICHAEL SMITH

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Last game / Nov. 30 at Indy
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afc east standings
  W L T Pct. PF PA
Patriots 10 2 0 .833 21.4 17.4
Dolphins 8 4 0 .636 20.1 15.9
Bills 5 7 0 .417 16.4 16.2
Jets 5 7 0 .417 19.5 19.8
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