WEEK 4: Dolphins and Chargers Break Out the SPF 75; One Team Still Get Burned

Despite a career day for Antonio Gates (nearly 200 yards receiving), the Dolphins (still waterlogged from playing in the rain the first three weeks of the season) managed to come away with a hard fought victory in sunny San Diego.

The game didn't start particularly well for the Phins (4-0, AFC East leaders), as on the second play from scrimmage, rookie Cam Newton hit Gates on the flat and the All-Pro tight end rumbled 60+ yards for the first TD of the game. "We were blinded by that glowing orb thing that was in the sky," said CB Sean Smith (2 INTS, 2 tackles). "Everything was so bright and clear. And the freedom of not playing in ponchos was hard to get used to."

But the Dolphins bounced back quickly as Jamaal Charles scrambled for a long score on the proceeding set of downs, followed later by a 61-yard rush by rookie FB Charles Clay. At halftime it was 21-17 Miami and the scene was set for just as high scoring a second half.

However, both team's defenses had other plans. Key stops by both squads (along with a couple missed FGs) resulted in a scoreless 3rd quarter. The Chargers entered the red zone midway through the 4th, but Smith snatched his second INT to halt the drive. With the momentum swung back towards the visitors, rookie RB Daniel Thomas found the endzone with a few minutes left to go and that pretty much sealed the win for Miami.

"Happy to get the W; happy we remembered the sunscreen," coach CMonks said from his Man Attic after the game. "I wish my wife liked Madden, then we could talk about how exciting it is that I'm 4-0 start the season. But alas, she does not. So I will tell dog and kids instead."

Next week the Chargers visit the QB-controversy-afflicted Broncos in a key divisional matchup, while the Dolphins head into their bye week for a much-needed break.