MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — It’s not a call that comes in very often, only when the opposing offense gives the Patriots’ defense a certain look. During a crucial third-down play midway through the fourth quarter on Sunday, the call was made, and linebacker Jerod Mayo tried to contain his excitement.

With the Dolphins facing third and 4 from the Patriots’ 7-yard-line and trying to cut into a 10-point deficit, Mayo took off on a delayed blitz, heading straight for quarterback Ryan Tannehill.