Picking the Jaguars at Dolphins winner based on the latest FanDuel odds as well as straight-up winners picks for all Sunday Week 1 games.
The Miami Dolphins welcome the Jacksonville Jaguars to Hard Rock Stadium Sunday afternoon, facing off in the opening weekend of the NFL’s 2024 regular season. The Dolphins are coming off back-to-back playoff appearances, but they have lost in the wildcard round each of the last two years and they have not won a playoff game in 24 seasons. The team expects to be a threat in the AFC playoff picture this year and are looking for a deep playoff run. Will they be able to make that happen?
The Jaguars ended last season with disappointment. After starting the year 8-3, they stumbled down the stretch to a 9-8 record and missed the playoffs. They won the AFC South in 2022, the first year under head coach Doug Pederson, and the expectations for this year are for a bounce back season, competing for the division title and making it deep into the playoffs.
Week 1 will give one of the team some momentum as the season begins while leaving the other looking for answers. How will this turn out?
According to the oddsmakers at FanDuel Sportsbook, this game should be fairly close, with the Dolphins listed as the favorites by 3.5 points. How will it play out?
Below, you will find my pick for the Dolphins game. After that you will find the straight-up picks for our contributors for each of Sunday’s games.
Jaguars at Dolphins (-3.5) (odds provided by FanDuel Sportsbook)
The Dolphins may not have the full advantage a September afternoon game normally provides them, with the Jaguars used to the Florida heat. However, Miami will still be in the shade and playing in their white jerseys while the Jaguars’ sideline will be in the sun throughout the game and they will be wearing color (if not dark) jerseys. The heat could still be a factor in this game – even if it just because the Dolphins get a respite when not on the field.
Miami’s offense is healthy and ready to use their speed advantage. The Jaguars come into this game having to deal with Miami head coach Mike McDaniel having eight months to tinker with his offensive system, especially with the addition of tight end Jonnu Smith to the roster. The Dolphins are looking to make every game into a shootout and they will be looking to lay down the gauntlet this week.
The Dolphins’ offensive line is the biggest question mark surrounding the team, which could cause problems as the Jaguars bring a high-powered pass rush into South Florida. Miami quarterback Tua Tagovailoa us going to need to the get the ball out of his hand quickly, allowing wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to make plays after the catch.
The game will be close early, but the Dolphins will pull away late as the heat and Miami’s speed wear down the Jaguars.
Pick: Dolphins (-3.5)
