The Buffalo Bills are set to face off against the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night in a highly anticipated matchup of the AFC East’s top contenders for the 2024 season. Both teams enter the game with a 1-0 record, each having staged impressive comebacks in their respective season openers. The Bills overcame a 10-point deficit to defeat the Arizona Cardinals 34-28, while the Dolphins rallied from a 10-point halftime deficit to secure a 20-17 victory against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Kickoff is slated for 8:15 PM EST.
Clash of the AFC East Titans
Buffalo Bills Preparing for a High-Speed Encounter
The Buffalo Bills narrowly avoided an 0-1 start to the season thanks to the remarkable performance of quarterback Josh Allen. He threw for two touchdowns and rushed for another two, leading the Bills back from a 14-point deficit against the Cardinals. Allen’s six-yard touchdown run, which ended with a spectacular leap into the end zone, was a highlight of the game, showcasing his athleticism and determination.
“I thought it was the flyover,” said left tackle Dion Dawkins, referencing the Air Force jet that flew over the stadium during the national anthem. “I just said, shoot, what goes up, must come down. And I hope you come down in the end zone.”
Allen completed 18 of 23 passes for 232 yards, connecting with nine different receivers. Khalil Shakir and Mack Hollins were the recipients of his touchdown passes, while rookie Keon Coleman led the team with 43 receiving yards. Running back James Cook contributed significantly to the ground game with 71 yards on 19 carries.
Defensively, the Bills allowed 270 total yards, with 134 yards coming on the ground. They managed to force one turnover and recorded four sacks, with Greg Rousseau leading the charge with three sacks. Linebacker Terrel Bernard also stood out, registering 11 tackles.
The Bills look to continue their success against the Dolphins, having swept the season series last year. They will face a challenging task against Miami’s explosive offense, as well as the humid Miami conditions. Buffalo’s defense, which ranked eighth in total defense last season, has undergone changes with a new secondary and middle linebacker. They will need to rise to the challenge against a potent Dolphins offense.
Key Injuries: Cornerback Taron Johnson and defensive end Dawuane Smooth are doubtful, while running back Ty Johnson and defensive end Javon Solomon are questionable.
Miami Dolphins Seeking Redemption
The Miami Dolphins faced some off-field distractions before their season opener but overcame a slow start against the Jaguars. Trailing 17-7 at halftime, the Dolphins surged in the second half, outscoring Jacksonville and winning 20-17 on a game-winning 52-yard field goal by Jason Sanders as time expired. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw for 336 yards, including an impressive 80-yard touchdown pass to Tyreek Hill, who had his own pre-game challenges.
Miami’s defense stepped up in the second half, shutting out the Jaguars and allowing only 267 total yards. They recorded three sacks and forced a critical fumble inside the red zone. The Dolphins held their opponents to just 2-of-11 on third downs and 0-for-1 on fourth downs, demonstrating a strong defensive effort.
With memories of past losses to the Bills fresh in their minds, the Dolphins are motivated to turn the tide this time around. Last season, Miami finished third in the NFL in total offense, showcasing their explosive capabilities. They plan to lean more heavily on running back De’Von Achane, with Raheem Mostert taking a backseat after a solid performance last season.
Key Injuries: Guard Liam Eichenberg, running backs Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane, linebacker Jaelan Phillips, and defensive back Jalen Ramsey are all listed as questionable.
Betting Insights for Bills vs. Dolphins
This matchup presents an ideal opportunity for the Dolphins to secure a victory against the Bills. The game’s location in the humid conditions of Miami could pose challenges for Buffalo, especially with injuries affecting their defensive front. The Bills’ secondary, which was a strength last season, is now integrating new safeties, which may take time to gel.
While the Dolphins’ offense started somewhat sluggishly in their opener, Tagovailoa’s ability to throw for over 300 yards provides a solid foundation moving forward. With Allen dealing with a hand injury and facing a short week, his performance may be affected. The Dolphins, recognizing the importance of this home game, will likely focus on establishing a strong ground game to set up passing opportunities later in the contest against a potentially fatigued Bills defense.
