Mac Jones praises Miami Dolphins ahead of Week 2 matchup vs. New England Patriots

New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones had some major praise for the Miami Dolphins and their defense ahead of the Week 2 matchup between the two squads.

Jones and the Patriots lost to the Philadelphia Eagles in Week 1 of the 2023 season, and the third-year quarterback believes that Miami’s and Philly’s defenses are on the same level.

“I think biggest thing for me is 24-hour rule,” Jones said. “Win or lose, just enjoy the win if you win and then learn from the loss if you lose. So, just trying to get better at those things, apply those things this week in practice and then move on to a really good team — honestly just as good of a defense. They’re really good up front. They got everybody back pretty much. And it’s always been a big challenge going against these guys. They’re definitely one of the top defenses in my opinion.”

This is a crucial game for both sides in Week 2, as the Patriots are looking to avoid falling to 0-2 on the season. Plus, this is a divisional game, which could loom large in the race for the AFC East this season.

The Dolphins did allow 34 points in Week 1, but it seems like Jones has a ton of respect for the team entering this matchup.

Miami needs to fix things against the run, as it allowed the Los Angeles Chargers to run for 234 yards on 40 carries in Week 1. Austin Ekeler (16 carries for 117 yards), Joshua Kelly (16 carries for 91 yards) and Justin Herbert (five carries for 18 yards) all scored on the ground as well.

The Patriots have two solid running backs in Rhamondre Stevenson and Ezekiel Elliott that could put pressure on the Dolphins’ defense. Neither had huge games on the ground in Week 1, as New England finished the day with just 76 total rushing yards against the Eagles.

Jones played well in Week 1 for the Patriots, shaking off an interception to finish the day with 316 passing yards and three touchdowns on 54 pass attempts.

New England was in the game with the Eagles until the end, coming up short on its final drive and turning the ball over on downs.

Miami is surely hoping that it can hold Jones under 300 yards passing in Week 2. The Dolphins and Patriots are scheduled to kick off at 8:20 p.m. EST on Sunday Night Football on Sept. 17.