Our Miami Dolphins vs. Buffalo Bills prediction takes a look at the Super Wild Card Weekend matchup that features a strong AFC East rivalry. Let’s dive into the current NFL betting odds, key storylines to watch, and make a prediction for the game. Note that all odds are from DraftKings Sportsbook as of Monday, Jan. 9.
Dolphins vs. Bills Odds
- Spread
Bills -10.5 - Moneyline
Bills -540, Dolphins +420 - Over/Under
44 points
Dolphins vs. Bills Prediction
The Dolphins needed a couple of things to break their way in Week 18 in order to make the playoffs. First, they needed to win against their division rival with Skylar Thompson at QB, and they were able to pull that part off.
Additionally, they needed New England to lose their matchup with Buffalo, which also took place by a final score of 35-23. Now, the Dolphins find themselves in the postseason in their first year with Mike McDaniel as the head coach, and yet, they have several questions looming going into this matchup with the Bills.
Based on what we’ve seen from Thompson this season, it’s safe to assume that Miami’s unlikely to knock Buffalo out of the playoffs if he’s their starting QB in the Wild Card round. Meanwhile, Teddy Bridgewater is dealing with a hand injury and it’s unknown whether or not he’ll be able to make it back in time.
On top of all of that, Tua Tagovailoa has major questions surrounding him on whether he even should return to the football field — assuming he’s cleared by team doctors — after sustaining three concussions this season. Tua gives the Dolphins their best shot to compete this week, but it’s not even close to a guarantee that he plays.
The practice reports are going to be critical to monitor going into this matchup. As Miami deals with some other key injuries on the roster as well, health could be the key determining factor for whether or not the Dolphins are able to compete and keep this game close.
MORE: Ravens vs. Bengals Prediction, Odds, and Picks for Wild Card Weekend
As for Buffalo, all eyes were on this team going into Week 18 to see how they would respond after getting positive news on Damar Hamlin and his recovery. People who assumed that they would come out with some additional motivation and passion didn’t have to wait long to have that take be vindicated.
On the opening kickoff of the game, Nyheim Hines returned a 96-yard touchdown, and Bills Mafia could simply not contain themselves. It was one of the most special moments of the 2022-2023 NFL season, and it will certainly remain in our memories for a long time as a tribute to Hamlin from his teammates.
Buffalo went on to take care of business against the Patriots, and they should be able to do the same this week against a Miami team that is hobbling their way into the NFL postseason. Major questions surround this Dolphins QB situation and who will be healthy enough to suit up. That will be a major factor in deciding the outcome of this game.
The Bills are a powerhouse team that’s won seven straight games — excluding the canceled game against Cincinnati. Miami’s a banged-up team that just made the playoffs. It’s easy to see why Buffalo’s big favorites here at home.
Dolphins vs. Bills Score Prediction
Bills 27, Dolphins 14