The winless Miami Dolphins advance to their next challenge, the Pittsburgh Steelers. Although the Steelers are 2-4, this matchup is one-sided for them. Also, newly acquired Minkah Fitzpatrick will see his first action against his former Dolphins after they traded him a few weeks ago.
A Dolphins loss will be a blessing and a curse. A loss gives the Dolphins a better shot for the top pick. However, a loss also means their first-round pick from the Steelers is a little less valuable.
A Steelers win keeps them in the race for first place in the debatable worst division in NFL. Sitting two games back, the Steelers can push forward in the standings and try to overthrow the Baltimore Ravens.
Anyways, how will each team win the mainstream Monday matchup?
Quarterback Mason Rudolph returns to the pocket for the Steelers after a concussion. So, offensive coordinator Randy Fichtner must utilize the full playbook again. Even though Rudolph is bouncing back from the hit, he needs to build confidence early.
Building bonds with wide receivers Diontae Johnson and JuJu Smith-Schuster can begin with this game. After starting to connect now, Rudolph can continue the relationship with those two by torching one of the worst defenses in the league. Running back James Conner should receive touches, as should Benny Snell, Jr.
This is a game for Fichtner and the Steelers’ offense to revamp and prepare for the week after.
For the Dolphins, though, quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick cannot get flashy. Simple plays and small plays to drive and tire the defense is how the Dolphins will move the ball.
The Steelers are in the top five in sacks and interceptions. Also, besides the first couple of weeks, this defense has been a top five defense by creating turnovers and limiting long drives.
Fitzpatrick needs to find receivers quick before T.J. Watt, Devin Bush, or a defensive back can make a play. Also, the Dolphins need to power the ball. With Stephon Tuitt out for the season, the interior defensive line is not as active. A Dolphins run game can keep the defense guessing, too.
Game Info
Date: Monday, Oct. 28th, 2019
Start Time: 8:15 p.m. EST
Location: Pittsburgh, Penn.
Stadium: Heinz Field
TV Info: ESPN
Betting Odds
Point Spread: Steelers -14.5
Over/Under: 49.5
Moneyline: Steelers (-360), Dolphins (+280)
The Steelers covering the spread is not likely. If the spread drops to 12.5 or lower, then take the over; otherwise, take the under. The Steelers’ and Dolphins’ offenses struggle to post numbers. Expect a lower scoring game. The Steelers at -360 is not an ideal payout, but it is the option you must take since they will win.
Prediction
Miami traveling to Heinz Field is not an ideal situation. Although the Steelers’ record is not pretty, this team improves week by week. The Steelers will get Rudolph back, and Fitzpatrick has a reason to play his heart out. The Steelers will win.
Dolphins 10, Steelers 24
