Lawsuits, drama, rumors, flashy free agency signings, and blockbuster trades this offseason has made for an emotional rollercoaster for Miami Dolphins fans. Still, new coach Mike Mcdaniel has established a new level of confidence in his team. Would that be enough to push the team to the playoffs for the first time since 2016? The first step for Miami will be to start of stronger than in previous years.
In 2021, the Dolphins found themselves on the outside of the playoffs by one game, finishing the season at 9-8 despite a horrible 1-7 start to the season. If Miami intends to silence the haters and make the playoffs, they will need to be better in the opening weeks of the season.
Week 1: vs New England Patriots
This year, Miami will face three playoff teams from last season in the first six weeks. Like last season, the Dolphins kick week 1 off against division rival New England Patriots. Although Miami has able to sweep the Pats last season, the Pats still made the playoffs. Bill Belichick and Mac Jones should be ready for the season which won’t make it an easy week 1, but we can expect Miami to do what it takes to get the win.
Week 2: @ Baltimore Ravens
The best all-around performance for the Dolphins last season came against the Baltimore Ravens, a game that Miami won 22-10. The Dolphins held former MVP Lamar Jackson to just 238 yards, 1 touchdown and 1 interception. The Ravens lost their best wide receiver in the offseason and have not addressed it since. No question Lamar Jackson is going to do what he can to keep his team in the game, but it could be Miami’s explosive offense that takes control for the win.
Week 3: vs Buffalo Bills
As Miami hopes to start the season 2-0, week 3 they face a Bills team that is expected to make the Super Bowl. The Bills have won nine of the last ten games against the Dolphins. Last season in week 2, the Bills injured QB Tuas Tagovailoa during a 35-0 blowout win. This season, although Miami has taken significant steps forward, the Bills will prove to still be on another level and end Miami’s two game win streak.
Week 4: @ Cincinnati Bengals
In week 4 Miami will be in Cincinnati to face the Bengals in a matchup where Miami would try to bounce back after a loss to the Bills. Unfortunately, the defending AFC champs will likely prove too much at home and the Dolphins will fall short, evening their record at 2-2.
Week 5: @ New York Jets
Miami was able to beat division rival Jets both times they faced each other last season. Looking to stop a two-game skid, the Dolphins defense will expose Zach Wilsons struggles and watch the offense be too much for the Jets defense to contain. With a win in New York, Miami will improve to 3-2.
Week 6: vs Minnesota Vikings
After a much-needed win in New York, Miami comes home for a matchup against the Minnesota Vikings. This offseason, the Vikings didn’t do much to take any steps forward. Although Minnesota has great weapons all around the offense, the Dolphins secondary will display why they can be considered one of the best in the league. Tua and the offense will be playing with a new level of confidence as they continue towards a bright future with a win at home. At 4-2, Miami will be feeling good going into week 7.