Miami Dolphins vs Los Angeles Chargers: Coming down to earth

Ahead of schedule

I already wrote earlier how much I admire the work that Brian Flores did with this team. When he took the Dolphins over, it was expected that this team is in need of a massive overhaul and that they will spend at least a couple of seasons to tear it apart and build this roster from the ground up. Well, those estimations were incorrect. Last year already, we could see many positive things in this team, despite some lack of talent across the board. Flores instilled discipline and winning mentality. When everybody expected them to tank for a better draft position, they went out there and won the last two games of their season. They didn't get Joe Burrow, but that didn't stop them from being 5-3 at the halfmark of 2020 season.

Speaking of the draft, they picked from 5th spot and got themselves another talented young QB - Tua Tagovailoa. There were many concerns about his health and fitness. He did back up Ryan Fitzpatrick for most of the season because of his recovery from hip injury. But once he was ready, Dolphins didn't hesitate and threw him in there, despite Fitzpatrick performing on a high level. Decision proved to be the right one. He is undefeated after two starts. His debut was not impressive when we look at the stats, because the defense and the special teams did most of the work vs the Rams. but going on the road and beating solid Cardinals teams is a sign that Miami could possibly build their team around this guy.

Deceiving record

LA Chargers, whom Dolphins are facing today, were picking next in the previous draft. And they went with QB as well, after Philipp Rivers left the town. They selected Justin Herbert from Oregon, who just like Tua started the season on the bench and got his opportunity after a crazy incident, where team doctor punctured Tyrod Taylor's lung, giving him injection before the game. Herbert took the opportunity and ran away with it, showing why he was a Top10 pick. Unfortunately, as a team, they failed to properly gather around their young signal caller and match his performance, which is why they're 2-6 at the moment.

But that is only one of the reasons. We need to look closer at some of those losses. All of them were one-possession defeats. Two of the after OT. Last two games were especially crazy. They dropped 24-3 at Denver and lost after a last second touchdown pass by Drew Lock. And then had a game winning last-second touchdown vs the Raiders last week, which got overturned after review.

Dolphins vs Chargers betting tips

That is why I wouldn't look too much into that 2-6 record. I think that the Chargers are still a pretty solid team with a talented QB that will keep them alive, even when playing from behind. It also feels like this could be a "coming down to earth" game for Miami. They are feeling great about themselves at the moment and taking a serious opponent like the Chargers too lightly could cost the dearly.

Miami lost Preston Williams last week to an injury. It seemed like he was developing some nice chemistry with the young QB. Losing a really good pass-catcher like Williams will definitely take its toll on Miami's offensive performances. Backfield looks pretty messy as well. Breida is out, meaning Howard, Ahmad, Laird and Washington will be splitting carries in this one and they'll probably ride with the hot hand in the second half. Rookie Salvon Ahmad won that competition last week.

Also, don't forget to check out our new feature for comparing outright odds. These two opponents are both part of the AFC conference. Odds for winning it can be found with this link: https://theplayer.com/odds/american-football/usa/nfl/nfl-afc-conference-winner