By: Michael Higgins

The Miami Dolphins had a disappointing end to the 2023 season. They were in the driver’s seat for the AFC East division title as they approached the home stretch of the season. However, a winning streak by the Bills and a skid by the Dolphins turned the division on its head.

This offseason was one the Dolphins needed to win in an increasingly competitive division. Due to being up against the cap, Miami was forced to part ways with key pieces such as Christian Wilkins, Andrew Van Ginkel, Xavien Howard, Robert Hunt, Jerome Baker, Connor Williams, and DeShon Elliott. All of these players were not only starters, but they were difference makers for the team. Filling their shoes is not an easy task. With that being said, Chris Grier and company did an excellent job with the resources they had. They signed players such as Jordyn Brooks, Anthony Walker, Jordan Poyer, and Kendall Fuller this offseason.
Walker and Jones are poised to be direct replacements for Baker and Van Ginkel. They are excellent scheme fits at the linebacker position alongside David Long Jr.

If we go game by game, we can get a rough idea of how the season can play out, even though anything can happen.

Miami’s first 4 games include weeks 1 and 2 (Thursday Night Football) at home against the Jaguars and Bills, followed by a trip to Seattle in Week 3 and another home primetime game on Monday night for Week 4 against the Titans. I say the Dolphins pick up 2 wins in the first quarter of the season. They then go to Foxborough in Week 5, have an early Week 6 bye, Week 7 in Indianapolis, and Week 8 at home against the Cardinals. They win all 3 games in this stretch.

In November they play at Buffalo, at the Rams for Monday Night Football, back-to-back home dates against the Raiders and Patriots, and Thanksgiving night matchup against the Packers in Green Bay. It is important to note that the Dolphins tend to tail off in the winter months as their offense is much less productive in the colder environments, they have tough times adapting to colder climates. So for the month of November, I have Miami going 3-2.

The final stretch of the season includes a home game against the Jets, a trip to Houston to play CJ Stroud and the Texans, a home game against the 49ers, and they conclude the season with 2 straight road games against the Browns and Packers. During this span, I have them going 1-4, making them 9-8 for the season.

In a competitive AFC, 9 wins simply will not do it. Obviously, this was a simple walk thru the schedule and they could win as many as 11 games, or lose as many as 10. However, there has to be a sense of urgency for the Dolphins. If they don’t make the playoffs again, is Mike McDaniel on the hot seat? Does Tua get paid? Do they attempt a quick retool?

2024 is an important year for the Dolphins and the pressure cooker is on.

2023 Record: 11-6

2024 Prediction: 9-8