The Miami Dolphins will try to end their two game losing streak against the winless Oakland Raiders, and extend their winning streak against the Raiders to 5 games, when they meet at Wembley Stadium in London on Sunday.
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Miami Dolphins (1-2) vs. Oakland Raiders (0-3), Sunday, September 28, 1 PM. ET. CBS.
Miami’s goal this season is to make the playoffs, and started the season with a big victory over the New England Patriots, before losing their next two games. One of the big reasons they haven’t played as well as expected is their passing game, which is averaging 190 yards per game, and is ranked 30th in the league.
2012 first round pick Ryan Tannehill, is receiving most of the blame for the lack of production in the passing game, because the team feels like they have surrounded him with enough talent to win games, or at least put up better numbers than he currently is.
After three games, the third year starter is having his worst statistical season; he has only completed 56 percent of his passes, which is worse than his rookie season, when he completed 58 percent of his passes, with less talent on the field. His play has led to rumors that he will be benched soon, and the Miami coach added fire to the speculation when he was noncommittal about the starter heading into Sunday’s game.
Other than the quarterback situation, the Dolphins have played well in the rushing department, and are averaging 137.3 yards on the ground, which is the 7th best in the league. Their defense still has room for improvement, especially their run defense which is 20th in the league. If they can improve their run defense and fix their passing game, they will be one of the most dangerous teams in the NFL.
The last time the Oakland Raiders won a game, their starting quarterback was still playing in college, and now, he will be trying to help his team end their nine game winning streak, which will prevent them from their first 0-4 start since 1992.
For the team to win the game, he will need help from his running backs, who haven’t done much this season, and average only 64.3 yards per game, which is 31st in the league. Maurice Jones-Drew missed the last two games due to injury, so his return should help rejuvenate the running game.
If the run can be established, Derek Carr will have more time to find his open receivers, because the Dolphins won’t be rushing him as much, in order to prevent the running backs from making big plays. Although it hasn’t translated into wins yet, the rookie quarterback has played well so far, completing 63 percent of his passes, and throwing for 588 yards, with 3 touchdowns and 3 interceptions.
The Raiders will also need to keep improving their run defense, which is one of the worst in the league. They were able to contain the run when they played the Patriots on Sunday, which helped them keep the game close, and will have to do the same against the Dolphins to give the team a chance of winning the game.
Game Line: The Dolphins are favored to win the game by 4 points, the Over/Under is 40.5 points.
Personal Pick: Despite their quarterback situation, the Dolphins are still the better team, and they will win the game on Sunday.
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