Miami (2-3) at Indianapolis (3-3)
Sunday, 1 p.m. EDT, Fox.
BetMGM NFL Odds: Colts by 3.5.
Series History: The Dolphins have the upper hand with a record of 48-28 against the Colts.
Against the Spread: Dolphins are 1-4; Colts have a record of 5-1.
Previous Encounter: The Colts triumphed over the Dolphins with a score of 27-17 on October 3, 2021, in Miami.
Recent Performance: The Dolphins recently had a bye week after securing a victory over the Patriots, winning 15-10 on October 6, while the Colts edged out the Titans with a tight 20-17 win last week.
Dolphins Offense: They rank 23rd overall, 18th in rushing, and 26th in passing, with the team being 32nd in scoring.
Dolphins Defense: Their overall ranking is 5th, 18th in rushing defense, 3rd in pass defense, and 19th in points allowed.
Colts Offense: The Colts stand 13th overall, with rankings of 17th in rushing and 15th in passing, and sit 16th in scoring.
Colts Defense: Their performance is 30th overall, 31st in rushing defense, 26th against the pass, and 18th in points allowed.
Turnover Differential: Miami is at a disadvantage with a -2 ratio, while Indianapolis has a +1 ratio.
Player to Monitor – Dolphins: Running back Raheem Mostert had a solid performance with 80 yards on 19 carries following a three-game absence due to a chest injury. Should De’Von Achane remain sidelined after entering concussion protocol, Mostert will likely shoulder the bulk of the carries.
Player to Watch – Colts: Quarterback Anthony Richardson is projected to return after missing two games because of a right hip injury. His dual-threat ability poses a challenge for defenses, raising concerns about his health, especially given his limited playing time over two seasons.
Crucial Matchup: The contest between the Dolphins’ defensive line and the Colts’ offensive line will be pivotal. Miami’s defense ranks among the league’s finest but has struggled with sacks, tying for one of the lowest totals in the league. A potential absence of Pro Bowl center Ryan Kelly may push the Colts to start two rookies in the trenches.
Injury Updates: Miami’s bye week has allowed some key players to recover; however, Tua Tagovailoa remains on injured reserve. Achane has shown progress in practice and may return soon. Starting safety Jevon Holland has a broken bone in his hand but is considered day-to-day and may compete with a cast. If Richardson is unable to play, veteran quarterback Joe Flacco will step in for his third consecutive start. Flacco has earned two victories in his recent games. Jonathan Taylor’s status also remains uncertain due to an ankle sprain, and several other Colts players did not practice, including key wide receivers and defensive players.
Historical Context: The Colts have won three of the last four matchups with Miami. From 1977 to 1987, the Dolphins completely dominated the series, winning 18 out of 19 games during that span. Miami holds wins in both playoff matchups between the two teams, while the Colts have participated in two Super Bowls at the Dolphins’ home stadium.
Additional Stats: Following their bye week, the Dolphins strive for consistency as they push for their third win, aiming to achieve 500 franchise victories. Even with Tagovailoa injured, the team has been limited in scoring, averaging just a dozen points per game this season. Notably, they have made 14 plays of 50 or more yards, a league high this season. Miami’s defense has been effective on third downs, converting at a remarkable rate, while their kicker, Jason Sanders, has maintained an impressive field goal conversion rate.
Fantasy Insight: Opt for the Dolphins’ defense in fantasy play, as it has shown reliability, even with roster changes due to injuries, although the situation may alter if Taylor recovers in time for the game.