Sunday afternoon in Land Shark Stadium, the Dolphins host the division leading New England Patriots in an AFC East showdown that Miami really needs to stay alive in the postseason race.

At 7-4, the Patriots sit a top the East and control their own destiny in the division. If they keep winning, they will win be in the playoffs, but the 5-6 Dolphins need some help and their schedule is not going to make it any easier.

NFL odds makers are calling the Patriots a road favorite in this one. The spread in Vegas is sitting at, New England -4.5 with the total in the game set at 46.

After an embarrassing blow-out loss to the Saints last week, the Patriots look to bounce back against the Fins, but they are really going to have to step up their game. While the Patriots were technically the road team in their win over Tampa Bay in London, they are 0-4 on opponents' home fields this year.

Against the Dolphins, New England quarterback Tom Brady needs to get back to MVP-caliber after struggling in New Orleans last week. Brady was 21 of 36 for 237 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions.

"I'm not so concerned with last week's game at this point. I've moved on to Miami," Brady said. "The mourning period is over."

Brady has already beaten the Dolphins once this year, throwing for 332 yards, including a 71-yard touchdown to Randy Moss against Miami's young secondary in a 27-17 home win on November 8th. Miami rookies Vontae Davis and Sean Smith continue to start at cornerback.

Expect Brady and the Patriots offense to thrive this week.

Take the Pats and give the 4.5 points on the road.