"When trying to explain the intriguing dynamic between himself and fellow Dolphins running back Ricky Williams on Wednesday, Ronnie Brown settled on an analogy that translates well beyond the football field: Serious relationships.

``In a sense, we know each other so well, it's like you say stuff without saying it,'' Brown said. ``When you've got a significant other, and you live together for a little while, she knows when you're not telling the truth. It's the same thing with us.

``I can look at him and his body language, and I can just tell what he needs. There's certain times when he needs a breather -- and vice versa.''

Best friends away from the field, the bond between these two has become so deep, it is now even having an impact on the way the pair splits carries during games. Sunday's win against the Bills provided a perfect example.

Although Brown and Williams generally alternated offensive series, there were four instances when both took carries during the same possession. Brown said that's not necessarily a plan initiated by the coaching staff.

``If one of us is a little fatigued, we'll say to the other, `all right you take this one,' '' Brown said.

Coach Tony Sparano said the Dolphins have a clear understanding of when Brown and Williams will rotate, which is planned beforehand by running backs coach James Saxon. But it's also clear there is a firm level of trust between all involved.

On Sunday, during one of Brown's series, he ripped off a 17-yard gain in the fourth quarter. On the next play, Williams entered the game. Coach's call or Brown's idea?

``It doesn't make sense for me to have a big play and be tired, when I know there's someone just as capable of moving the football as I am,'' Brown said. ``If I tried to say in, that's just a sign of being selfish.''

Keep in mind, this is not the way it usually works in the NFL -- especially for a player in Brown's situation. Currently in a contract year, Brown's future salary depends in part on his success this season. The more opportunities he gets, the better his chance to prove his worth as an elite running back."