Bills set to clash with Dolphins in pivotal AFC East matchup
The Buffalo Bills are gearing up to face off against their longtime rivals, the Miami Dolphins, this Thursday night at Highmark Stadium. As Week 3 approaches, the Bills stand strong at 2-0, riding a wave of momentum, while the Dolphins are desperate for a victory, sitting at 0-2. This game marks the final encounter between these storied franchises at the current Highmark Stadium, with Bills fans eager for one last chance to “squish the fish.”
Current Odds and Betting Insights
Heading into this divisional showdown, the Bills are favored by 11.5 points, a slight drop from the initial opening spread of 12.5 points. This represents the largest gap between Buffalo and Miami since the 2023 season, according to StatMuse. Historically, the Bills have performed well against the Dolphins, holding a 9-7-1 record against the spread since 2017. As always, betting odds are fluid and can change rapidly as game day approaches.
Weather Conditions for Game Night
Forecasts predict a pleasant evening for football at Highmark Stadium, with temperatures expected to be in the 70s. Fans can look forward to minimal wind and no precipitation, setting the stage for an exciting matchup under the bright lights.
Injury Report: Bills’ Key Players
The Bills will be missing two significant contributors for this week’s game. Defensive tackle Ed Oliver, nursing an ankle injury, will miss his second consecutive game, while linebacker Matt Milano, who suffered a pectoral injury during the Week 2 contest against the New York Jets, has also been ruled out.
In Oliver’s absence, fourth-round rookie Deone Walker stepped up as a starter last week, while fellow rookie second-rounder T.J. Sanders saw an increase in playing time. Zion Logue, elevated from the practice squad, made an immediate impact with his first career sack.
Milano’s spot will likely be filled by Dorian Williams, who was the Bills’ leading tackler last season, finishing with 117 tackles in 11 starts. Williams contributed significantly against the Jets, participating in 64% of defensive snaps, and he is poised to take on an even larger role as he steps into the starting lineup.
Three players remain questionable for the game: nickel cornerback Taron Johnson (quad), linebacker Shaq Thompson (hand/hamstring), and defensive back Cam Lewis (shoulder). Johnson and Thompson did not play against New York, while Lewis sustained his injury during that game.
Dolphins’ Injury Concerns
The Dolphins are also dealing with their share of injury woes. Starting cornerback Storm Duck is out with an ankle injury, while starting safety Ifeatu Melifonwu is sidelined due to a calf issue. Both players were absent from Tuesday’s practice, leading to their designation as out for Thursday’s game.
Meanwhile, Miami has listed three players as questionable: wide receiver Jaylen Waddle (shoulder) and linebacker Chop Robinson (knee). Waddle shone against the New England Patriots last week, recording five receptions for 68 yards and a touchdown, and his health will be crucial for Miami’s offensive strategy. Robinson made a strong showing with a sack and several pressures on the quarterback in his limited snaps during Week 2.
With both teams facing their own challenges, this Thursday night matchup is poised to be a thrilling contest, showcasing the high stakes of divisional rivalries in the NFL. As the Bills look to maintain their perfect record and the Dolphins aim to kickstart their season, fans can expect a fierce battle on the field.
