Thursday Night Football: Bills vs. Dolphins Predictions

Tonight’s Thursday Night Football game (Bills vs. Dolphins) could prove to be a season-changer for the winner. The AFC Wild Card race is a total toss-up and both of these teams are in positions to potentially make it to the “Winter Classic” if they continue winning. The New England Patriots will likely take the AFC East, but this game will play a big factor in deciding who finishes second.

Without further ado, here are some Thursday Night Football predictions…

Ryan Tannehill has a career night, throws for 3 TDs, 270 yards.

Tannehill and the Dolphins could use a major boost, and a big performance against an AFC East rival would do just the trick. Miami has a few very solid under-the-radar weapons in their passing game – including rookie Jarvis Landry from LSU and TE Charles Clay. Tannehill will have to dodge some good athletes in the Buffalo secondary, but he can get it done tonight.

Sammy Watkins is shut down in the first half, goes for 100+ yards in the second.

The Dolphins are going to spotlight the rookie from Clemson in this one, something that should result in early domination from guys like Brent Grimes on the back-end. Watkins may have a tough start, but the passing attack in the second half is going to be big. Kyle Orton will look for Watkins in crucial spots, potentially for some big plays as well. Look for the rookie to surprise late in this divisional battle.

Cameron Wake will beat up rookie tackle Seantrel Henderson, go for three sacks on the night.

If you watched Wake’s film from last week, you’ll see that he was playing full “beast mode”. He registered two sacks against another rookie, Cornelius Lucas, against the Detroit Lions – a number I expect him to improve this week. Henderson has legitimate talent, but I’m not sure he’s ready for what Wake will bring to the table.

FINAL SCORE: Miami Dolphins – 27, Buffalo Bills – 17