The Dolphins and Patriots will face off at Gillette Stadium on Sunday for their second matchup of the season. The Dolphins won the first meeting, 20-7 back in week 1. Miami will once again be without their star quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, as he has been ruled out due to a concussion. The Patriots find themselves in a better position as they will likely face Teddy Bridgewater. Regardless, this is a must-win game for New England since their playoff hopes hang in the balance. Let’s dive into this Dolphins at Patriots preview and betting picks.
Dolphins In Week 16
The Dolphins threw away their opportunity to help secure their spot in the playoffs when they lost on Christmas Day. The Packers were able to come away with a 26-20 victory. However, possibly the worst news came after the game when it was reported that quarterback Tua Tagovailoa had sustained another concussion. The star quarterback has been ruled out, which is the best decision since this is his 2nd head injury of the 2022 season.
Patriots In Week 16
Mac Jones and the Patriots looked to be in a prime position to pull off an improbable win against the defending AFC Champion Bengals. However, what appeared to be a touchdown drive with only two minutes remaining was dispelled when Rhamondre Stevenson had the ball ripped away at the goal line. It was another soul-crushing defeat for New England, and not the Christmas present Patriots fans were hoping for.
On The Call
The game on Sunday will be broadcast on CBS, with game time set for 1:05 PM ET. Ian Eagle, Charles Davis, and sideline reporter Evan Washburn will be on the call. You can listen to the game locally on 98.5, The Sports Hub in Boston.
Dolphins at Patriots Preview Game Notes
- Despite the heartbreaks against Vegas & Cincinnati, the Patriots still control their destiny at making the playoffs.
- The Dolphins are looking for a series sweep against the Pats for their second consecutive season.
- A loss against Miami would essentially eliminate New England from postseason contention.
- Bill Belichick has a record of 26-19 against the Dolphins since 2000.
- This is the second meeting of the season between the two clubs. The Dolphins won their first matchup in week 1, 20-7.
- The New England defense scored a touchdown in their last three games, despite the Patriots being 1-2 in those games.
- If Mac Jones can get time to throw the ball behind the offensive line, the matchup against the Miami secondary will be favorable.
- Rhamondre Stevenson has the team lead in receptions with 62.
- The Patriots lead the AFC in sacks, with 50 on the season.
- Matthew Judon ranks second in the NFL in sacks with 15.5.
- Fun Fact: Former Patriots great Wes Welker is currently serving as the Miami Dolphins wide receiver coach.
- Despite the rough game last week against Cincinnati, expect Rhamondre Stevenson to have a bounce-back performance this week (especially in the passing game).
- Marcus Jones has been incredible on punt returns this season. He leads the NFL with a 13-yard punt return average and has been a real swiss army knife.
- Jalen Mills and Jack Jones remain questionable for Sunday.
Fantasy Football Start’ Em
Jakobi Meyers: After having success through the air in the second half of last week’s game, the Patriots will be more inclined to air it out Sunday afternoon. He’s a great under-the-radar option if you’re in a PPR league and need someone to start in your finals matchup.
Tyreek Hill: Regardless of who plays at quarterback, Hill will be a focal point in this Miami offense on Sunday. Expect Mike McDaniel to get the ball in Hill’s hands as much as possible and let the cheetah make plays.
Fantasy Football Sit ‘Em
Mac Jones: Jones played okay on Sunday, throwing for 240 yards and two touchdowns. However, his results have been too up and down this season to risk giving him a start in your fantasy football finals. The ceiling isn’t high enough to justify the low floor.
Miami Running Backs: Steer clear from Jeff Wilson, Jr. and Raheem Mostert, regardless of who starts at quarterback for Miami. The Dolphins rushing attack has been poor throughout the season, and New England allows the second-fewest points to fantasy running backs in the league.
Dolphins at Patriots Preview: Betting and Odds
Odds courtesy of FanDuel Sportsbook
Moneyline: MIA: (+128) | NE: (-152)
Spread: MIA: +2.5 (-105) | NE: -2.5 (-115)
Total: 42.5 — Over: (-110) | Under: (-110)
Thomas’ Final Thoughts and Score Prediction
Tua Tagovailoa has been officially ruled out with his 2nd concussion and head injury of 2022. In general, it’s unlikely that he suits up again this year but he definitely will not for this game. The Patriots are coming off a few tough losses but they are a better team than what they have shown lately. The Patriots will find a way to win in their last home game of the season.
From a betting perspective, the Patriots will win outright and cover. The weather won’t be much of a factor as it will be a nice 50 degree day in Foxboro. However, the defense and lack of offense of the Pats will keep it under the 42.5 point total as well.
Score Prediction: Patriots Win 19-14