Titans vs. Dolphins Predictions: Can Tennessee Upset Miami on MNF?

Game Information

Date: September 30, 2024
Time: 7:30 PM ET
Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, FL
TV: TBA

Betting Odds

The Rundown

The 0-3 Tennessee Titans travel to face the 1-2 Miami Dolphins in what could be a more offensive-minded affair than initially expected. Both teams are dealing with significant changes: the Titans looking to capitalize on a weakened Dolphins defense, while Miami adapts to a quarterback switch with Tyler Huntley under center.

Team Analysis

Tennessee Titans (0-3)

While the Titans’ 0-3 record might seem alarming, it’s crucial to consider the quality of defenses they’ve faced. Games against the Bears, Jets, and Packers – all known for their defensive prowess – have contributed to their offensive struggles. However, facing a depleted Dolphins defense could be the opportunity the Titans need to jumpstart their offense.

The Titans’ offense, averaging just 16 points per game, may be due for a breakout performance. With the Dolphins likely missing key defensive players like LB David Long Jr and CB Kendall Fuller, Tennessee’s passing game could find more success than in previous weeks.

Miami Dolphins (1-2)

The big news for Miami is the quarterback change, with newly signed Tyler Huntley taking over for the injured Tua Tagovailoa. While this might seem like a downgrade, Huntley’s dual-threat capabilities could add a new dimension to the Dolphins’ offense. His ability to run could be particularly impactful against a Titans defense that recently allowed 73 rushing yards to Packers QB Malik Willis.

Defensively, the Dolphins face significant challenges with the potential absences of Long and Fuller. This could create opportunities for the Titans’ passing attack, which has struggled but may find more open receivers against a weakened secondary.

Key Player Focus

For the Titans, the focus will be on their passing game, particularly how they exploit the Dolphins’ depleted secondary. For Miami, all eyes will be on Tyler Huntley and how effectively he can lead the offense, especially with his running ability.

X-Factor Analysis

The x-factor in this game could be Tyler Huntley’s mobility. If he can replicate or exceed the success that Malik Willis had against the Titans’ defense, it could open up Miami’s entire offense and potentially push the total score over the current line.

The Bottom Line

With the Dolphins’ defensive injuries and the Titans facing a potentially easier defensive matchup, this game could feature more offense than the odds suggest. The quarterback change for Miami adds an element of unpredictability, but could also lead to a more dynamic offensive showing.

Prediction: Tennessee Titans 24, Miami Dolphins 21

Best Bets (ranked by confidence)

1. 5-point teaser: Titans +7.5 and Over 32 (-110)
2. Over 37 points (-110)
3. Titans +2.5 (-105)
4. Tyler Huntley Over rushing yards (wait for prop to be released)

Teaser Analysis

A 5-point teaser combining the Titans and the Over presents an attractive betting option for this matchup. Here’s why:

• Teasing the Titans from +2.5 to +7.5 gives us significant cushion, even if Miami’s offense performs well with Huntley at the helm.
• Moving the total from 37 to 32 aligns with our expectation of increased offensive output from both teams, while providing a safety net if the game is slightly lower scoring than anticipated.
• This teaser capitalizes on the potential for the Titans to keep the game close or win outright, while also accounting for the expected increase in offensive production due to defensive injuries and Huntley’s dual-threat capabilities.

By combining these two bets in a teaser, we’re able to capture value on both sides of our analysis: the Titans’ improved offensive outlook against a weakened Dolphins defense, and the potential for a higher-scoring game than the current total suggests.