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5 most interesting NFL matchups to watch Week 15

By Rucker Haringey

DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 29: Taysom Hill #7 of the New Orleans Saints looks to pass during the second quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on November 29, 2020 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images)
DENVER, COLORADO - NOVEMBER 29: Taysom Hill #7 of the New Orleans Saints looks to pass during the second quarter of a game against the Denver Broncos at Empower Field At Mile High on November 29, 2020 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Matthew Stockman/Getty Images) /
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Tua Tagovailoa, Miami Dolphins
MIAMI GARDENS, FLORIDA – DECEMBER 13: Tua Tagovailoa #1 of the Miami Dolphins waits for the snap against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first half in the game at Hard Rock Stadium on December 13, 2020 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mark Brown/Getty Images) /

2. Bill Belichick vs. Tua Tagovailoa

Tagovaila wasn’t able to lead his team to a stunning victory over the Chiefs in Week 14, but the game was another important step in the rookie quarterback’s development. The challenge lying ahead of him this week isn’t any easier. Now Tua gets to tangle with the defensive genius of Bill Belichick.

The Patriots desperately need to knock off Miami if they want to keep their playoff hopes alive. New England may only be 6-7 on the year, but Belichick’s defense is still a dangerous weapon for any inexperienced signal-caller. They’ll try to overload Tagovailoa’s brain with complicated looks and coverage schemes all game long.

The good news for Miami is that one of Tagovailoa’s biggest strengths is his ability to process information quickly and accurately in the pocket. He has excellent physical tools, but his mental understanding of the game is a big reason why he’s enjoyed success as a rookie.

Tagovailoa needs to make sure he avoids the temptation to try to win this game with his arm. It’s vital that he stay within the team concept against the Patriots defense. Belichick will employ schemes designed to trick Tua into believing he has chances to make big plays. The more discretion the Dolphins’ quarterback shows in this game the better his team’s chances to win will become.

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