It is NFL playoff time! The Tua-less Miami Dolphins head to Buffalo to take on the surging Bills in a AFC Wildcard playoff matchup. These teams ended their season in opposite directions, the Dolphins losing five of their last six games whilst the Bills finished with a seven-game win streak! After the official news of Tua sitting out due to having 3 concussions this season, the line is whopping -13.5 in favour of the Bills. Can they cover the spread?
Here is my complete prediction, analysis and recommendations for this game.
Dolphins Got the Injury Bug
Unfortunately for the Miami Dolphins a season that looked promising and a passing offense that was ranked number 1 in the league has little to no sign of life now. Star QB Tua Tagovailoa has suffered from multiple concussions this season and the team officially announced he did not pass protocols and will miss this game. Backup QB Teddy Bridgewater is questionable with a knee/right finger injury meaning third-string rookie Skylar Thompson will most likely get the start for the Fins'.
Thompson has struggled in his first year with 534 Yards, 1 TD, 3 INT and a 27.3 QBR, the eye test isn't much better and not someone you would look to trust in a playoff game against one of the best defences in the league. The Dolphins are suffering injuries elsewhere too, including running backs, wide receivers and at the offensive line.
Emotionally Charged Bills Laser Focused
I am always scared in the "we have something to play for that is bigger than the game" teams in every sport. It does not need to be said what the Bills have to play for here.
Star QB Josh Allen has been amazing this year with 4,283 passing yards, 35 touchdowns and 14 interceptions. He does lead the league in red-zone interceptions with 5 so that is something to be aware of.
Greg Rousseau was the sack co-leader with Von Miller (out), recording eight sacks on the season while also earning 27 solo tackles and one forced fumble. Tremaine Edmunds led with 106 tackles, including 66 solo tackles, one sack, and one interception. Jordan Poyer who leads with four interceptions is questionable. Matt Milano has three interceptions, 72 solo tackles, and 1.5 sacks on the season.
Emotional Blowout
I think most people see this game going the same way. In fact, the numbers show just that. The Buffalo Bills are getting 96% of the bets and 92% of the money. As much as it scares me to go with the public we just cannot see this game going anyway but a blowout Bills victory. As much as Bills -13.5 is possible we are looking to get a winner early.
FREE Recommendation: Buffalo Bills first half -7 (1 Unit) [Odds: -120]
Full Betting Record Posted here!
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