Jacksonville Jaguars (3-0 Preseason) vs. Miami Dolphins (2-1 Preseason)
The NFL season kicks off with a compelling matchup as the undefeated Jacksonville Jaguars in the preseason face the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. This Week 1 clash on Sunday promises to set the tempo for both teams’ seasons. Broadcasted live on CBS, this game will be a crucial test, especially for the Jaguars, who aim to translate their preseason success into the regular season. Fans and bettors alike will find this game particularly intriguing for NFL picks and prediction, given the contrasting performances and stakes involved.
The Jacksonville offense game plan in this preseason has relied enormously on the effectiveness of the key players so far. Quarterback Mac Jones looks excellent, completing 73.1% of his passes for 421 yards and 3 touchdowns with no interceptions. In three games, running back Tank Bigsby didn’t score but managed to rush for 105 yards on an average of 5 yards per carry. Wide receiver Austin Trammell was leading in terms of catches with 135 receiving yards, ringing up with 8 catches.
In contrast, although Miami’s slim preseason game time was not optimal for preparation, it highlighted future stars. Quarterback Skylar Thompson came into a game and completed 78.9 percent of his attempts, amassing 197 yards, one touchdown and one interception. With Chris Brooks, who had 103 yards rushing on 17 attempts and an outstanding 6.1 yards per carry, the Dolphins’ rushing game seems strong. Another nonrelevant player, TE Tanner Conner, registered 3 receptions for 70 yards.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Miami Dolphins Game Info
When: | Sunday, September 8, 2024, at 1:00 PM ET |
Where: | Hard Rock Stadium |
TV: | CBS |
Stream: | NFL Game Pass |
Mac Jones QB vs. Skylar Thompson QB
Given circumstances prevailing this offseason, Mac Jones has notably shown respect for his passing ability and readiness with the ball like a statue. He has a passer rating of 115.9 and did not fold under pressure, but his performance will undoubtedly be challenged when facing the defense from Miami.
Skyler Thompson performed well when he took the field to put together some of the criticism and posted an efficient offensive rating of 105.5. It remains to be seen whether he will do well and stay calm and precise with the ball, given how aggressive Jacksonville’s defence might be.
NFL Odds/Point Spread: Miami Dolphins -180, Total Odds: 49.5
The betting odds are slightly in favor of the Dolphins at -180, with the Jaguars at +161. The point spread sets Miami as 3.5-point favorites, which aligns with their solid home record despite Jacksonville’s robust preseason display. The total over/under at 49.5 points suggests expectations of a high-scoring game, possibly influenced by both teams’ offensive capabilities shown in the preseason.
Jacksonville Jaguars Betting Trends
Jacksonville has been a team that has found it tough covering the spread with a 1-5 record in their last 6 games ATS. On each road game iteratively, however, Jacksonville has been strong going 9-3 ATS in the last 12 away games. This suggests that Jacksonville may do better than expected when they are out of Jacksonville.
Miami Dolphins Betting Trends
The Dolphins have not been at their best lately, with a record of just 2 – 4 in their last six encounters, balancing also at the ATS figures. However, their record on home ground and defense in recent times has been of concern, particularly in the last nine games played against Jacksonville, 8 of which went UNDER the total number points scored.
Jacksonville Jaguars vs. Miami Dolphins 9/8/24 Betting Picks
Assessing both teams’ strengths and weaknesses, the game is poised to be closer than the odds suggest. Jacksonville’s strong road ATS record could trouble Miami, but the Dolphins’ home advantage and defensive strength in limiting scoring should not be underestimated.
For bettors, the pick here would lean slightly towards Miami covering the spread, given their formidable home record and Jacksonville’s shaky ATS history. However, consider the UNDER on total points as both teams have trended in that direction historically. The match might not be a high-scoring affair, but strategic and tight. Enjoy the game and place your bets at the reputable and best casinos online.