The Dolphins are hitting the road again, with a bye week sandwiched between trips to New England and Indianapolis. After a Week 5 win, highlighted by a 15-play touchdown drive in the fourth quarter to edge out the Patriots, Miami looks to even their record at .500 for the first time since Week 2 with another road victory. Although 11 games remain after their matchup with the Colts, this feels like a pivotal game as the Dolphins aim for their second consecutive win with a backup quarterback.
Head Coach Mike McDaniel expressed optimism earlier in the week about Tua Tagovailoa’s return. “I do expect to see (Tagovailoa) playing football in 2024,” McDaniel said, but noted that they still have time to assess before making any decisions. Tagovailoa is eligible to come off injured reserve ahead of Week 8’s game against Arizona.
However, first, the Dolphins face a tough test against the 3-3 Colts, who are currently in playoff position but dealing with key injuries. Defensive tackle DeForest Buckner and running back Jonathan Taylor are both questionable. Buckner has been out since Week 1, and the Colts’ defense has struggled, allowing the most rushing yards in the league (931). If Taylor remains sidelined, the Colts shift their offensive focus away from the run, going from 45 percent run plays with him to just 33 percent without him.
The Dolphins’ defensive line, led by standout tackles Zach Sieler and Calais Campbell, will need to continue their strong play. Both are ranked among the top 10 defensive tackles in stop rate and quarterback pressures, per Pro Football Focus. Campbell emphasized the importance of staying focused: “It’s about stacking wins… you just try to be 1-0 for this week.”
At quarterback, the Colts are expected to start Anthony Richardson after a hip injury kept him sidelined for two games. Richardson has shown playmaking ability but has struggled with turnovers, throwing six interceptions to just three touchdowns this season. If the Dolphins can keep him contained and force him to operate from the pocket, Miami’s defense, which ranks sixth in the league in yards allowed, should be able to control the game.
For game day updates and injury reports, check the team’s social media 90 minutes before kickoff. Tune in for live coverage on Sunday, October 20 at 1:00 p.m. ET on FOX, or listen on the Dolphins Radio Network.
Leave a Reply