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On This Date in Sports October 28, 1973: Sweeping the Patriots (50 Years of Following Up Perfection Week 7)

The Miami Dolphins reached the season's midway point with a 30-14 win over the New England Patriots in Foxboro, improving to 6-1. The Dolphins again overcame a slow start, trailing at halftime before outscoring the Patriots 17-0 in the second half. Miami rushed for 238 yards among four backs. Mercury Morris led the way with 100 yards on 14 carries with a touchdown, while Larry Csonka bulldozed his way for 68 yards on 17 carries, scoring a touchdown.  

The Patriots came out strong and forced a fumble by Mercury Morris that set their offense in Miami territory. On their first play from scrimmage, Jim Plunkett connected with Sam Cunningham on a 34-yard touchdown pass. The Dolphins quickly answered as Marlin Briscoe caught an 11-yard pass from Bob Griese that tied the score. Cunnigham has a six-yard run that put New England back in front, as they led 14-13 at the half, following a pair of field goals by Garo Yepremian. 

In the second half, the Dolphins shut down the Patriots completely, as Garo Yepremian gave Miami its first lead with a 23-yard field goal. Using their running attack, Miami gound down the Patriots, with Mercury Morris scoring a touchdown with a two-yard run. In the fourth quarter, Larry Csonka scored on an eight-yard run. 

In winning 30-14, Miami outscored the Patriots 17-0 in the second half. The Dolphins' defense sacked Jim Plunkett four times as they completed the season sweep. Bob Griese completed 7-of-18 passes for 86 yards.