Both teams are coming off hard-fought, season-opening victories at home in which they each rallied from 14-point deficits. Josh Allen led the way in the Bills’ 34-28 win over Arizona with four total touchdowns. He injured his non-throwing hand on his second TD run in the fourth quarter, but it’s not expected to be an issue. The team could choose to be cautious by giving running back James Cook (19 carries for 71 yards) more carries.
The Dolphins had more success through the air than on the ground in their 20-17 come-from-behind win over the Jacksonville Jaguars. Miami capitalized on several big passing plays, highlighted by Tyreek Hill’s 80-yard touchdown. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa may have to shoulder more of the load in this game as well due to a banged-up backfield. Raheem Mostert (chest) has already been ruled out and De’Von Achane (ankle) is a game-time decision.
Two keys for the Bills’ defense will be generating consistent pressure on Tagovailoa and limiting yards after catch. A secondary that already features several new faces will be missing nickel cornerback Taron Johnson, who has been ruled out due to a forearm injury.
Turnovers also could be critical. Allen had 22 in 2023, including three when these teams faced off in the regular-season finale. Despite those miscues, the Bills won 21-14 and have won four in a row and 11 of the past 12 against their division rivals. If the Dolphins want to knock off the current kings of the AFC East, they’ll have to make them pay for mistakes and not make too many of their own.
