Dolphins' keys to victory fall on Raheem Mostert, DeVon Achane's shoulders

The Miami Dolphins need to be more physical versus the Kansas City Chiefs this time around.

Running backs Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane will need to set and maintain the tone in frigid temperatures on the road. The weather forecast for this game, Kansas City: -2° at kickoff, wind gusts up to 40 MPH, and wind chill expected to be as low as -35°. With wind gusts that high and powerful, both teams are expected to run the football. 

These two teams faced off in Week 9 this season. The Dolphins lost to the Chiefs by a score of 21-14. In that game, Miami outgained Kansas City 292 total yards to 267. K.C. was outrushed 117 to 93 yards on the ground. To outgain your opponent and still lose stings a little differently. Regardless, Miami must repeat this success and sustain it for four quarters. 

Mostert's impact was strong in short order. He finished the game with 12 carries for 85 yards, 7.1 yards per carry, and one touchdown. A missing component of Miami's rushing attack was rookie RB De'Von Achane. 

He missed this game during his stint on injured reserve because of his knee. Adding him to the mix makes this rushing attack more explosive, potent, and difficult to contain. 

Chiefs aware of Dolphins' additional weapon

During Chiefs coach Steve Spagnuolo's Wednesday presser, he discussed his feelings regarding a healthy Dolphins backfield in part two of this matchup. 

 "That's not all of them. You could throw them all in a bucket. They all have speed. They built (the offense) that way, right? Certainly, Tyreek (Hill) leads that charge because of what he can do. We didn't face No. 28 (De'Von Achane) last time. I told the guys the other day, that there is going to be another weapon that we didn't have (to worry about) before, so be prepared for that. Our eyes will be on all of those guys. Like I always say, 'You can't double them all.' We've got to try and find ways to take away the guy (Tua Tagovailoa) is going to."

I agree with the coach, there is speed all over this offense. In my opinion, the two most important players will need to carry the football a combined 30-plus times. Achane's game-breaking speed and veteran run tempo will be a fastball mixed with a change-up for the Chiefs' defense. 

Mostert will bring speed and power that can wear down any defense with the proper workload. Throwing Achane in changes the pace and approach. He is a homerun threat at any time and from anywhere on the field. 

But it is the slippery and elusive running style of Achane that can create issues for KC's defense. If the ball is thrown, Achane should see some easy slip screens or jet pop passes to take advantage of the elements. Typically an advantage to offensive players over defense. 

Winless to the weather?

The Miami Dolphins have lost 10 straight games when the temperature is below 40° degrees. This wildcard matchup provides the opportunity to write a new chapter for the South Beach natives. 

Tua Tagovailoa is from Hawaii, played college football at the University of Alabama, and spent his NFL thus far in Miami. How will the warm climate native handle these frigid conditions? Time will tell. The running attack should lead this offense first and foremost.