Chargers (2-6) at Dolphins (5-3)
Sunday, 4:05 ET, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens
TV: CBS
Danny Sheridan’s phins by 2 1⁄
2
Chargers’ keys to victory: LA needs to resolve its late-game issues, and facing a well-coached team in Miami isn’t likely to help ease the concerns. Rookie QB Justin Herbert will need to be selective with his approach against the Dolphins’ talented secondary. Defensively, LA needs to try to find ways to get its effective pass rush home despite Miami’s quick-passing game. Getting their hands up to disrupt throwing lanes will be a big boost.
Dolphins’ keys to victory: Miami has flashed the ability to beat teams in all three phases of the game. Assume head coach Brian Flores has a few unusual blitz looks to show Herbert in the Dolphins’ efforts to continue their strong defensive play and create a few turnovers. Offensively, rookie QB Tua Tagovailoa should be expected to steadily progress with how much of the playbook Miami is comfortable giving him, so look for new wrinkles that the Dolphins haven’t flashed yet.
Matchup to watch: Chargers WR Keenan Allen vs. Dolphins CB Byron Jones. If Allen, one of the best route runners in all of football, can get the best of Jones, it would help Herbert get comfortable. Allen has been a high-volume target. Defensively, Jones has been terrific and well worth the monster contract Miami signed him to this offseason.
Who wins? This clash of rookie quarterbacks should provide no shortage of excitement. The difference between these teams? Miami is at home, and the Chargers’ defense has not played to the same level as the Dolphins’ unit.
Dolphins 27-24 line:
Dol