Texans (1-7) at Dolphins (1-7)
Sunday, 1 p.m. ET, Hard Rock Stadium, Miami Gardens, Florida
TV: Fox
Tipico Sportsbook line: Dolphins by 6 ⁄2
1
Texans’ keys to victory: Houston has struggled mightily to get much going since its surprising victory over the Jaguars in the season opener. The Texans also been without QB Tyrod Taylor, who may return for this game from a hamstring injury. Houston will need to limit Miami’s quartet of playmakers that includes WR Jaylen Waddle, WR DeVante Parker, TE Mike Gesicki and RB Myles Gaskin. All of them can create mismatches and exploit defenses.
Dolphins’ keys to victory: The Dolphins are one of the few teams that understand the pain that the Texans have gone through this season. Since QB Tua Tagovailoa returned, Miami’s offense has looked better, but the Dolphins are coming off another tough loss to Buffalo. For Miami to win this game, it will have to finally give its quarterback time and space. If the offensive line can protect Tagovailoa and their pass catchers can get open, the Dolphins can win.
Matchup to watch: Texans WR Brandin Cooks vs. Dolphins CB Xavien Howard. Cooks has long been one of the most underappreciated wide receivers in the NFL. His size has caused him to be overlooked, but he’s been productive everywhere he goes. The Dolphins will need to put their best cornerback on Cooks.
Who wins? Both of these teams are longing for a win in the worst way. If the Dolphins are going to win another game this season, it has to come here. This is one of the only chances they will get to play a team that isn’t more talented than they are.
Dolphins, 27-23