NFL Picks: Dolphins vs. Browns Lines, Week 17

The Miami Dolphins face the Cleveland Browns in a pivotal Week 17 matchup that will heavily influence the AFC playoff picture. Scheduled for Sunday, December 29, this game takes place in Cleveland, where the weather could be a factor in how both teams approach the game.

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2024 NFL Season | 104th season of National League in the United States

Miami is battling to secure its postseason spot and improve its seeding, while Cleveland is playing for pride and to evaluate its roster heading into next season. With both teams having much to prove, this game is shaping up to be a fun one.

This late-season game pits one of the league’s most explosive offenses against a Cleveland team with a strong defense but glaring issues at quarterback. Miami is looking to continue its strong run of form, while the Browns hope to play spoiler in front of their home crowd. The matchup also offers a chance to see how these teams handle high-pressure situations, with one fighting for its playoff life and the other trying to make a statement before the off season.

Key Matchup Details

Date: Sunday, December 29, 2024
Time: 1:00 PM ET
Venue: Cleveland Browns Stadium
TV Coverage: CBS
Odds: Dolphins -6.5, Over/Under 39.5

Miami Dolphins Insights

The Dolphins enter this matchup with one of the league’s most dynamic offenses, led by Tua Tagovailoa. The quarterback has been highly effective in creating big plays, utilizing star wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to stretch defenses and open up opportunities downfield. Miami’s offense ranks in the top five in points scored and yards per game, a testament to its explosive playmakers and well-designed schemes.

Defensively, Miami has quietly become a force. The pass rush, led by Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb, has disrupted opposing quarterbacks throughout the season. The secondary, anchored by Xavien Howard and Jevon Holland, has shown the ability to create turnovers and shut down top-tier receivers. Against a Browns offense that struggles to find rhythm, the Dolphins’ defense could be a deciding factor in this game.

With so much at stake, expect Miami to play aggressively on both sides of the ball. Head coach Mike McDaniel has shown a willingness to take calculated risks, particularly in critical games. Miami’s ability to control the tempo and force Cleveland into uncomfortable situations will likely dictate the outcome.

Cleveland Browns Insights

The Browns have endured a tumultuous season, highlighted by instability at the quarterback position. Dorian Thompson-Robinson has struggled to lead the offense, and his lack of experience has been evident in key moments. Cleveland’s passing game ranks among the league’s worst, and the team’s reliance on the run game has been hindered by the absence of Nick Chubb.

Despite these issues, Cleveland’s defense remains a bright spot. Myles Garrett has been a dominant force on the edge, leading a pass rush that can disrupt even the most efficient offenses. The secondary, led by Denzel Ward and Greg Newsome, has been effective in limiting big plays, although it has occasionally been vulnerable to speed threats like those Miami possesses.

For Cleveland, this game is about evaluating young talent and building momentum for the future. While the playoffs are out of reach, a strong performance against a playoff-bound Dolphins team would send a message about the team’s potential in 2025. Expect the Browns to play hard in front of their home fans, even if they are outmatched on paper.

SPlayoff Implications

The stakes couldn’t be higher for the Miami Dolphins, who are vying for a wildcard spot in a crowded AFC playoff race. With a win, Miami can solidify its position and potentially move up the seeding ladder, depending on the outcomes of other games. A loss, however, could open the door for teams like the Chargers or Steelers to leapfrog them in the standings, making this a must-win game for Miami.

For the Browns, this game has no direct playoff implications, but it is an opportunity to disrupt Miami’s plans and finish the season on a high note. Cleveland has historically relished the role of spoiler, and with a chance to knock off a playoff hopeful, the Browns will be motivated to give their best effort. This game also offers head coach Kevin Stefanski a chance to evaluate key players under pressure, providing valuable insights heading into the offseason.

Next Games

Dolphins: Miami wraps up the regular season with a divisional showdown against the Buffalo Bills, a game that could determine their final playoff seeding.

Browns: Cleveland ends its season with a rivalry game against the Pittsburgh Steelers, offering a chance to impact the AFC North standings and evaluate its roster further.

Best Bet for Dolphins vs. Browns

Miami’s high-powered offense and opportunistic defense make it a tough matchup for Cleveland, especially with the Browns’ struggles at quarterback. The Dolphins should be able to control the game’s tempo and exploit Cleveland’s weaknesses on both sides of the ball. Even on the road, Miami has the tools to win convincingly and cover the spread.

The Browns’ defense may create some challenges for Miami early on, but the Dolphins’ depth and talent should eventually wear them down. Expect Tua and the Dolphins to capitalize on key opportunities and secure a win by more than a touchdown.

NFL Pick: Dolphins -6.5

With Cleveland’s offense struggling to generate points, the total is likely to stay under 44.5. Miami’s defense has been solid, and the Browns are unlikely to score enough to push the game over. Even if the Dolphins put up points, Cleveland’s limitations on offense will likely keep the total in check. A 27-13 type of game seems fitting, making the under a strong play.

NFL Picks: Under 39.5

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Final Prediction

This game is Miami’s to lose, as the Dolphins have a clear advantage in offensive firepower and defensive consistency. Cleveland may keep it competitive in the early stages, but the Browns lack the tools to keep up with Miami over four quarters. Look for the Dolphins to capitalize on their opportunities and maintain control throughout the game.

Predicted Score: Dolphins 27, Browns 13

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2022 Browns vs Dolphins, NFL Week 10

It wasn’t too long ago that Tua Tagovailoa was the most maligned quarterback in the league.

Nowadays, he’s the key to the Miami Dolphins’ offense, as the Dolphins have yet to lose a game that he has started and finished this season. We’ll see if that trend continues this Sunday as the Dolphins host the Cleveland Browns.

Cleveland will be coming off of a vacation and heading to another vacation destination. The Browns dominated the Cincinnati Bengals prior to their bye week, and we’ll see if they can continue to play well against a very good Miami team.

We’ll now give you a preview of both teams, and then we’ll give you our NFL Betting prediction on this key AFC matchup.

Will the Browns Be Able to Slow Down the Powerful Dolphins Offense?

Cleveland Browns

At 3-5, the Browns are looking to inch back closer to .500 and stay in the race for the AFC North title. Right now, Jacoby Brissett is the placeholder at the quarterback position, as Deshaun Watson could potentially return in Week 12.

During Watson’s suspension, Brissett has done an adequate job of leading the team. Nick Chubb, who many consider to be the best running back in the NFL, has been the leader of the Cleveland offense.

Chubb has rushed for 841 yards with ten touchdowns this season. Chubb will also get some help from the offensive line on Sunday, as right guard Wyatt Teller should return from injury.

Defensively, the Browns are led by one of the top defenders in the league in Myles Garrett. This defense hasn’t lived up to expectations this season, but injuries have plagued this group throughout the season.

The defense will get a big boost on Sunday, as star linebacker Denzel Ward should make his return.

Miami Dolphins

What’s not to like about the Miami Dolphins offense? Mike McDaniel has done a great job of calling plays, and he has been helped by a loaded roster of weapons. When Tagovailoa is under center, this unit is really good.

With the likes of Jaylen Waddle, Tyreek Hill, and Mike Gesicki catching passes and the running back duo of Raheem Mostert and newly acquired Jeff Wilson, Jr., this team can hurt you in numerous ways. The offensive line is much improved this season as well. Points being scored aren’t an issue for Miami, and this is a fun offense to watch.

The defense is a different story. This team has been one of the worst defenses in the league this season.

Injuries haven’t helped the situation, but the lack of a pass rush has also been an issue. Bradley Chubb was acquired from Denver at the trade deadline to help fix the pass rush issue. We’ll see if he can make an immediate impact on the defense.

With the secondary being banged up, this group needs more of a pass rush. We’ll see if the defense can band together and slow down Nick Chubb on Sunday.