Dolphins Brace for Tough Challenge as Ravens Dominate National Predictions
The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for a critical matchup against the Baltimore Ravens at Hard Rock Stadium, hoping to secure their second consecutive win. However, the national media appears to have a decidedly unfavorable view of Miami’s chances in this contest.
National Predictions Favor Ravens
As the Dolphins prepare for their Thursday night showdown, a roundup of predictions from various national outlets reveals a strong consensus favoring the Ravens.
Sports Illustrated reflects this trend, with analysts Albert Breer, Claire Brennan, Mitch Goldich, Gilbert Manzano, Conor Orr, and John Pluym all predicting a Ravens victory. The lone dissenting voice comes from Matt Verderame, who opts to back the Dolphins.
USA Today Sports offers a similar outlook, with predictions from Jarrett Bell (Ravens 27, Dolphins 20), Nick Brinkerhoff (Ravens 31, Dolphins 20), and others leaning heavily towards Baltimore. The scores vary, but the majority forecast a Ravens win by at least a touchdown.
The Sporting News highlights the dual threat from Baltimore’s quarterback position, noting that whether it’s Lamar Jackson or Tyler Huntley, the Ravens pose a significant challenge for Miami. The analysis points to the Dolphins’ struggles against the run, particularly with Derrick Henry on the horizon, and concludes with a prediction of Ravens 27, Dolphins 17.
ESPN’s Consensus on the Matchup
ESPN’s analysts echo the prevailing sentiment, with every contributor, including Matt Bowen, Mike Clay, and Dan Graziano, siding with the Ravens. Predictions range from Ravens 22, Dolphins 10 to Ravens 31, Dolphins 20, reflecting a general expectation that Miami will struggle to keep pace.
CBS Sports Analysis Highlights Offensive Challenges
The offensive dynamics of the game are also under scrutiny. CBS Sports notes that while both teams showed promise last week, especially the Ravens with their critical win over the Bears, Baltimore’s ground game, spearheaded by Derrick Henry, will be pivotal. The Dolphins, despite their recent victory against the Falcons, face a more formidable opponent in the Ravens. The analysis concludes with a prediction of Ravens 27, Dolphins 17.
The Athletic Provides a Glimpse of Hope for Miami
In a twist, The Athletic offers a more optimistic perspective on Miami’s chances. Highlighting Tua Tagovailoa’s recent performance, which saw him return to form despite a swollen eye, the piece suggests that the Dolphins might keep the contest close, especially after a strong showing on national television previously. The prediction here suggests Miami could beat the spread at +7.5.
Conclusion: A Tough Road Ahead for Miami
As the Dolphins prepare to face the Ravens, they find themselves in a challenging position, with most national analysts predicting a tough outing. While the chance for an upset remains, Miami will need to address significant issues in their run defense and maintain their offensive momentum to defy the odds. The spotlight will be on both teams as they battle for supremacy in the AFC on Thursday night.
