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2021 NFL Power Rankings, Week 5: Cowboys make statement, Cardinals take the top spot

By Randy Gurzi

Oct 3, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals strong safety Budda Baker (3) recovers the fumble against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports
Oct 3, 2021; Inglewood, California, USA; Arizona Cardinals strong safety Budda Baker (3) recovers the fumble against the Los Angeles Rams during the first half at SoFi Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports /
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2021 NFL Power Rankings
Oct 3, 2021; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Jacoby Brissett (14) attempts a pass against the Indianapolis Colts during the second half at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jasen Vinlove-USA TODAY Sports /

59. . . Previous: 19th. Miami Dolphins. 24. team

In 2020, the Miami Dolphins were one of the surprise teams. They finished with a record of 10-6 and while they missed out on the playoffs (several teams finished 11-5), they were still very impressive and head coach Brian Flores earned some believers in the process. They then went out and added more help on offense by bringing in Jaylen Waddle and Will Fuller to help Tua Tagovailoa as he entered his second season.

So far in 2021, things have not gone as expected. Miami just dropped their third game of the season to fall to 1-3. It was their second game in a row starting Jacoby Brissett in place of an injured Tagovailoa, although Brissett played the majority of their 35-0 loss to Buffalo in Week 2 as Tua was hurt after throwing just four passes (with one completion).

While they’re not winning, it’s hard to put blame on their backup quarterback. Brissett was fine on Sunday with 199 yards and two touchdowns on 20-of-30 passing. He wasn’t exactly great but he’s not a liability either, they’re just simply getting beat.

Looking ahead, they have to hope Tua gets healthy but even when he does, they’re going to keep holding their breath every time he gets tackled because injuries continue to be an issue for the former Alabama star.

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