Preview
Today we have a matchup between two teams with the same record, but that are heading in quite opposite directions. The Dolphins have stumbled since opening the season 3-0 and need a big win to help get their season back on track. The Texans have won four straight games and want to keep things rolling to take a stranglehold on the AFC South. This game is important to each team because a win here could be the determining factor in a playoff berth. An early important matchup should bring out the best from both sides.
Players to watch
Brock Osweiler was supposed to be Houston’s savior just a couple years ago, but after realizing their mistake Houston decided to move on. Osweiler has done a good job filling in for Ryan Tannehill and he has a chance to get some revenge against the team that gave up on him. Xavien Howard will be depended on to help shut down DeAndre Hopkins and slow down the Texans offense. Deshaun Watson is the big reason why Houston is on a winning streak, and he needs to put together another solid performance while leaving this matchup at full health. This should be an easy win if J.J. Watt and Jadeveon Clowney can keep up with their domination over the opposing team’s offensive line.
Keys to the game
Miami Dolphins
No costly turnovers
Feed Kenyan Drake and Frank Gore
Pressure Watson
Houston Texans
Protect Watson
Frustrate Osweiler
Establish the run
Injury list
Miami Dolphins
Ryan Tannehill, QB - Shoulder (Out)
Kenny Stills, WR - Groin (Out)
Charles Harris, DE - Calf (Out)
Mike Gesicki, TE - Shoulder (Questionable)
A.J. Derby, TE - Foot (Questionable)
Houston Texans
Keke Coutee, WR - Hamstring (Out)
Shareece Wright, CB - Shoulder/Hand/Groin (Out)
Aaron Colvin, CB - Ankle (Out)
Zach Fulton, C/OG - Ankle (Out)
Brian Peters, LB - Ankle (Out)
Ryan Griffin, TE - Illness (Out)
Andre Hal, S - Shoulder (Out)
Top 5 Fantasy Players
DeAndre Hopkins, WR (HOU)
Kenyan Drake, RB (MIA)
Deshaun Watson, QB (HOU)
Lamar Miller, RB (HOU)
Will Fuller, WR (HOU)
Prediction
There should be no reason why the Texans don’t walk in and leave with a win. They have a defense that should give Osweiler problems, especially considering his two top receiving weapons are out. I expect Houston to come out swinging, and then lean on Lamar Miller to help control the clock and not put too much pressure on Watson. I see them winning this game easily.
Final Score: Texans 24, Dolphins 7
Written by: Cody Manning