Two one-win clubs are set to clash this weekend. The Dolphins earned their first win of the season last week, a 27-21 triumph over the Jets. However, Miami’s offense is in a precarious position going forward. Star wide receiver Tyreek Hill suffered a season-ending knee injury against New York.
On the other side, the Panthers are dealing with health issues of their own. Running back Chuba Hubbard has already been ruled out with a calf injury. Can quarterback Bryce Young lead Carolina to its second win of the season?
Below, I’ve laid out my preview, prediction, and best bet for Sunday’s showdown between the Dolphins and the Panthers.
The Dolphins are favored by 1.5 points (-105) over the Panthers, with the over/under set at 45.5 points. Which of these teams has the edge on DraftKings Sportsbook entering this contest?
Dolphins vs. Panthers prediction, preview
As previously mentioned, Hill’s injury changes things for Miami. Other than Jaylen Waddle, there aren’t many proven wide receivers on this roster. That might mean more targets for Darren Waller. The tight end appears to have strong chemistry with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. connecting on two touchdowns vs. the Jets. Still, the oft-injured veteran is sure to have his snaps heavily monitored this early in the season.
Tagovailoa and this offense, while inconsistent, haven’t been the biggest problem in South Beach. That’s been Miami’s secondary, one of the worst units in football. Through four games, opponents are averaging the second-most passing yards per attempt vs. the Fins (8.3). Monday night’s matchup with the Jets was a step in the right direction. However, New York isn’t exactly known for throwing the ball deep.
Young and the Panthers will likely try to exploit Miami’s biggest weakness on Sunday. That’s easier said than done without their best running back. Hubbard’s absence pushes former Cowboys rusher Rico Dowdle into a starting spot. The RB2 hasn’t been very effective so far, gaining only 103 yards on 33 touches. Expect some work for rookie Trevor Etienne as well. The Georgia alum looked good last week vs. New England, notching 33 yards on seven carries.
Young’s passing numbers this season have been mediocre at best. The former first overall pick has thrown for 753 yards and five touchdowns while tossing three interceptions. Forming an early connection with rookie Tetairoa McMillan will be crucial for Carolina’s offense. Through four games, the wide receiver has paced the team with 18 catches for 278 yards.
Dolphins vs. Panthers pick, best bet
The Panthers are far from a perfect club. However, they enter this matchup with a clearly superior defense, placing 15th in EPA per drop back. In comparison, Miami ranks second to last in that category. I trust Tagovailoa more than Young under center, but he’s working with unproven options outside of Waddle. As slight underdogs, I’ll back Carolina to pull off the upset at home.
