In an exciting Week 8 showdown, the Miami Dolphins are set to host the New England Patriots at Hard Rock Stadium. Both teams have a long-standing rivalry and are eager to secure a victory in this highly anticipated matchup.

The Dolphins are currently 61-55 all-time against the Patriots and have won 11 out of their 27 encounters since 2010. With a solid home record of 8-5 at Hard Rock Stadium in that same time frame, the Dolphins hope to capitalize on their home-field advantage.

The last meeting between these two teams in Week 2 resulted in a thrilling 24-17 victory for the Dolphins. Running back Raheem Mostert put on an impressive performance, rushing for 121 yards and two touchdowns on an average of 6.7 yards per carry.

However, the Dolphins are dealing with some injury struggles heading into the game. A total of 11 players, including wide receivers Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill, cornerbacks Xavien Howard, Kader Kohou, Jalen Ramsey, and Nik Needham, as well as safety Jevon Holland, were limited in practice on Thursday. Additionally, left tackle Terron Armstead and left guard Isaiah Wynn are both on injured reserve.

On the Patriots' side, they are also facing their fair share of injury concerns. Key defensive players Christian Gonzalez and Matthew Judon are currently on injured reserve. Several other vital contributors, such as Christian Barmore, Trent Brown, Davon Godchaux, Hunter Henry, Jonathan Jones, Cole Strange, Josh Uche, Keion White, and Deatrich Wise Jr., have been limited in practice this week.

The matchup between these two teams holds additional intrigue as several players have switched sides. Dolphins wide receiver coach Wes Welker, a former fan-favorite player, donned the Patriots' jersey from 2007 to 2012. Patriots assistant offensive line coach Billy Yates also has connections with the Dolphins, having played for the team in 2003.

Furthermore, various players have crossed paths between the Dolphins and the Patriots in recent years. Dolphins wide receiver Braxton Berrios, cornerback Justin Bethel, punter Jake Bailey, offensive lineman Chasen Hines, and wide receiver Raleigh Webb have all spent time with the Patriots. On the Patriots' side, wide receiver DeVante Parker, tight end Mike Gesicki, defensive lineman Davon Godchaux, cornerback Breon Borders, and linebacker Calvin Munson have all previously played for the Dolphins.

With both teams well-acquainted with one another due to their frequent head-to-head matchups, Sunday's game is expected to be a closely contested battle. The Dolphins will look to build on their previous victory against the Patriots and solidify their position in the highly competitive AFC conference.

Football fans eagerly anticipate the clash between these bitter rivals, as Week 8 promises an exhilarating showdown between the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots.