Game day is almost here and DolFans are asking the million dollar question: how will Miami fare against Atlanta? We break it down and evaluate Miami's chances by every facet of the game.

Who Has the Better Offense?

Many people see the Dolphins and Falcons as identical teams in a sense - both had resurrecting seasons last year and made the playoffs. The Dolphins used the Wild Cat early on to fight their way to victory. Atlanta used Matt Ryan's golden arm and Michael Turner's feather feet to put points on the board and win games.

So which team has the advantage on Sunday?

The running back cores of each team exhibit power and versatility. Michael Turner and Jerious Norwood on one end and Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams on the other. The Falcons have the more powerful starting RB, while the Fins have more depth and a better combo (maybe even trio - don't forget Patrick Cobbs).

Depending on how the game plays out, the running game could favor either team. If the defenses are not defending the run well, then Atlanta will likely get the most of it. If both sides are stingy against the run, then Miami has more depth to battle it out and keep the rush alive.

On the passing end of things, you face a slighly diferent scenario. Matt Ryan is obviously the pure passer, with arm strength on his side. Chad Pennington has experience, accuracy and efficiency on his side. Miami's secondary must watch out for Roddy White, Tony Gonzalez and the other targets Ryan has on his side. If the CBs are getting burned it may just be a long day for the Fins. The Falcons aren't notorious for a great secondary either, which is a plus for Pennington's game-managing style and short passes - it will keep drives alive, the defense on the field and the offense on the bench.

In essence, the secondary has to step up and the offense has to capitalize on key match-ups. Those are the keys to Miami's success overall.

Who Has the Better Defense?

If this were based on the team that has the bigger names then Miami would have the upper hand. Sure, Atlanta has John Abraham, but Miami has Jason Ferguson, Jason Taylor, Joey Porter and Channing Crowder. Most people around the league can recognize those players for their talents and accomplishments.

Based on statistics there are more valid reasons as to why Miami has the advantage:

2008 NFL Team Statistics (according to NFL.com)

• Total Defense: Miami = 15th, Atlanta = 24th
  
• Rushing Defense: Miami = 10th, Atlanta = 25th
  
• Passing Defense: Atlanta = 21st, Miami = 25th

Things have changed, players have been added, but the core of both teams have stayed. Rankings change every season, but typically not by a drastic number. Miami will have rookies integrated into the secondary this season, which will be a weak point for the defense. At the same time, Atlanta was not known last season for it's defense and made no major acquisitions in the off season to sure up their defensive woes.

Miami gets a clear advantage here, but has plenty to worry about with Atlanta's weapons.

Who Has the Better Special Teams?

A major point of concern for Miami this pre season was...

http://www.miamisportsgeneration.com/2009/09/miami-dolphins-vs-atlanta-falcons.html