The exciting game between the Miami Dolphins and Buffalo Bills on November 3, 2024, at Highmark Stadium is shaping up to be a key moment in the AFC East battle. The Dolphins are having a tough season at 2-5, while the Bills are doing great at 6-2. This matchup could really impact playoff spots. The game kicks off at 1:00 PM EST, and you can watch it on CBS.
Miami Dolphins (2-5)
The Dolphins have had a tough season, dealing with injuries and ups and downs. But with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa back in action, there’s a glimmer of hope. In their close game against Arizona in Week 8, he showed what he can do by hitting 73.7% of his passes for 234 yards and a touchdown. His knack for reading defenses and making fast decisions will be key when they face the strong Bills defense.
Key Contributors
Tyreek Hill: Hill had a bit of a rough beginning, but he’s really stepped up as Tagovailoa’s go-to guy, showing off his incredible speed and ability to run routes. His game against Arizona, where he snagged six catches for 112 yards, proves he’s definitely back in the groove.
De’Von Achane: The new running back has really surprised everyone, averaging an awesome 9.7 yards per carry last week and getting close to 100 rushing yards. His skills in breaking tackles and picking up extra yards after contact brings a whole new vibe to Miami’s offense.
Raheem Mostert: Mostert, recognized for his speed, found the end zone twice last week, adding strength to the running game and easing the load on Tagovailoa.
Miami has had a tough time against Buffalo over the years, even with their strong offensive lineup. They’ve dropped eight straight games in Buffalo and have a rough 1-9 record against the spread in their last ten meetings.
Buffalo Bills (6-2)
The Bills are rolling into this matchup on a three-game win streak, proving they’ve got what it takes to be Super Bowl contenders. Quarterback Josh Allen has been on fire this season, racking up over 2,200 passing yards and boasting an impressive 20:1 touchdown-to-interception ratio, putting him in the running for the NFL MVP alongside Patrick Mahomes. In their last showdown back in Week 2, the Bills took down the Dolphins 31-10, with running back James Cook playing a key role in the ground game. Cook’s ability to find gaps in defenses will be crucial again as he aims to take advantage of Miami’s defensive weaknesses.
Key Players
Dalton Kincaid: The new tight end has rapidly turned into a go-to option for Allen, playing a big role in the passing game. With 166 receiving yards under his belt, Kincaid’s size and skills in running routes give him an edge over linebackers and safeties.
Ed Oliver: Oliver is a key player on Buffalo’s defensive line. His speed and power help him break through opposing offenses with ease. Being able to get into the backfield will be crucial for shutting down Miami’s run game and putting pressure on Tagovailoa, forcing him to make quick decisions.
Greg Rousseau: Rousseau’s impressive length and athletic ability make him a standout pass rusher, allowing him to consistently put pressure on the opposing quarterbacks.
Key Matchups
Quarterback Battle: Tua Tagovailoa vs. Josh Allen
The game’s result will really depend on how both quarterbacks play. Tagovailoa has to keep things under control and steer clear of turnovers since the Bills’ defense is great at taking advantage of errors. Meanwhile, Allen needs to keep up his solid performance and look for ways to take advantage of Miami’s defensive gaps.
Defensive Strategies
Miami’s defense needs to zero in on keeping Allen in check while also dealing with the dual threat posed by Cook and the newly signed receiver Amari Cooper. The fitness of crucial defensive guys like safety Jevon Holland and linebacker Bradley Chubb will be crucial. If they can put pressure on Allen and minimize big plays from Kincaid and Oliver, they might just keep the game close.
Sports Betting Ace’s Final Score Prediction: Buffalo Bills 30, Miami Dolphins 20
The Bills are looking to take full advantage of playing at home and keep their winning streak against Miami going. Meanwhile, the Dolphins will be aiming to step up their game, but they might struggle against a solid Buffalo team.