Miami Dolphins VS. Buffalo Bills Game Preview & Pick
Scott Morris | January 11, 2023
This preview and prediction for the Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills game examines the Super Wild Card Weekend matchup that combines a fierce AFC East rivalry. Let’s examine the most important topics to monitor, current NFL betting odds, and a game prediction.
Dolphins vs. Bills: Game Odds
- Over/Under: 44
- Spread: Bills -10.5 (updated to -13 after Tua ruled out on Wed.) Line found at BetUS.com
- Moneyline: Dolphins +420; Bills -540 (Moved to -850/+570)
Dolphins vs. Bills: Game Preview
In order for the Dolphins to qualify for the playoffs in Week 18, a few things had to go their way. They were able to accomplish their first goal, which was to defeat their divisional adversary with Skylar Thompson as quarterback.
They also needed New England to lose against Buffalo, which they did, by a final score of 35-23. Even though the Dolphins are in the playoffs for the first time under Mike McDaniel’s leadership, there are still many unanswered problems for them coming into this game against the Bills.
If Thompson starts for Miami in the Wild Card round, Miami won’t likely eliminate Buffalo from the playoffs based on what we’ve seen from him this season. Teddy Bridgewater is now suffering with a hand injury, and it is unclear whether he will be able to return in time. Tua Tagovailoa has already had three concussions this season, so on top of everything else, there are serious concerns about whether or not he should even return to the football field. Tua provides the Dolphins their greatest chance to compete this week, but his participation is far from certain.
Prior to this game, it will be crucial to keep an eye on the practice reports. Health might be the most important deciding factor for whether or not the Dolphins are able to compete and keep this game close, since Miami is also dealing with some other significant ailments on the squad.
All eyes were on Buffalo heading into Week 18 to see how they would react in light of the good news about Damar Hamlin’s rehabilitation. People didn’t have to wait long to have their expectations, which included more drive and enthusiasm, to be confirmed.
Nyheim Hines returned a superlative 96-yard touchdown, and the Bills Mafia were unable to restrain themselves. It was one of the most memorable events of the 2022–2023 NFL season, and as an homage to Hamlin from his teammates, it will undoubtedly live on in our minds for a very long time.
In the end, Buffalo defeated the Patriots, and they ought to be able to do the same this week against a Miami squad that is stumbling its way into the NFL playoffs. There are a lot of uncertainties around this Dolphins QB issue and who will be fit enough to play. That will have a significant impact on how this game turns out.
Game Prediction
With the exception of the Cincinnati game that was postponed, the Bills are a dominant club that has won seven consecutive games. Miami is an injured club that just advanced to the playoffs. It’s simple to see why Buffalo is a strong local favorite. As it stands we expect the Bills to cruise past the Dolphins come game day.
The new point spread of -13 is a very large number but does not rank anywhere near the largest NFL playoff point spreads in history.
Other Free Picks for Wild Card Week January 2023
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