NFL WEEK 8 SCORE PREDICTION CARDINALS VS DOLPHINS

Tue, Oct 22, 2024
by SetTheNarrative.cappertek.com

In this Week 8 matchup between the Arizona Cardinals (3-4) and the Miami Dolphins (2-4), both teams are looking for momentum as they try to stabilize their seasons. Arizona is coming off an impressive win against the Chargers in Week 7, while Miami is struggling after a tough loss to the Colts. This game has the potential to be a close, high-scoring affair.

Game Breakdown:

Arizona Cardinals (3-4):
- QB: Kyler Murray
- The Cardinals’ offense, led by Kyler Murray, is dynamic and capable of scoring in bunches. Murray’s ability to extend plays with his legs and make explosive plays downfield makes Arizona dangerous against any opponent. Arizona has been able to score an average of 42 points against teams with defenses similar to Miami’s, and they’ll be looking to exploit Miami’s weaknesses on defense.
- Defense: Arizona’s defense has struggled to stop high-powered offenses, allowing an average of 43 points against comparable teams. If they can’t contain Miami’s weapons, especially with Tua back under center, it could turn into a shootout. The Cardinals will need to pressure Tagovailoa and limit his time in the pocket to keep the game close.
Miami Dolphins (2-4):
- QB: Tua Tagovailoa (Returning from Injury)
- Tua is back after missing several weeks due to a concussion suffered against the Bills earlier in the season. While his return is crucial for the Dolphins, it remains to be seen how sharp he will be after an extended absence. Miami’s offense can score 41 points against teams like Arizona, and Tua’s connection with speedy wideouts like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle could be the key to unlocking big plays.
- Defense: Miami’s defense has been a liability this season, allowing an average of 48 points against offenses similar to Arizona’s. Their inability to stop the run and defend the deep ball makes them vulnerable, especially against a quarterback as elusive as Kyler Murray. The Dolphins will have to tighten up their coverage and avoid getting gashed by Arizona’s balanced attack.

Predicted Score: Miami Dolphins 31 – Arizona Cardinals 30

This game is projected to be close, with Miami narrowly edging out Arizona. Both teams have high-powered offenses, and with Tua back, the Dolphins could find just enough offensive rhythm to outlast the Cardinals in a shootout.

Betting Perspective:

Las Vegas Spread: Miami (-3)
- The Dolphins are slight 3-point favorites, but this game could truly go either way. The predicted score suggests Miami might win by just 1 point, making it difficult to confidently pick them to cover the spread. Arizona’s ability to put up points keeps them in the game and makes a bet on Arizona to cover (+3) an appealing option.
Over/Under (46.5):
- With both teams capable of putting up big numbers and defensive vulnerabilities on both sides, the over looks like a solid play here. The combined score prediction is 61 points, well above the 46.5-point total set by Las Vegas.

Coaching Styles:

Drew Petzing (Arizona Cardinals Offensive Coordinator):
- Petzing is Arizona’s offensive coordinator, and his background lies primarily in coaching tight ends and quarterbacks. Known for his focus on player development, particularly at the quarterback position, Petzing emphasizes a creative passing game and a balanced offensive attack. His system allows for Kyler Murray to play to his strengths, utilizing his mobility and quick decision-making to spread the ball to multiple weapons.
- Petzing’s offense tends to prioritize creating mismatches in the passing game, but he’s not afraid to lean on the run when needed, especially with a talented RB corps. The Cardinals will likely look to use a healthy mix of run and pass in this game, especially if they find success moving the ball on the ground.
Mike McDaniel (Miami Dolphins Head Coach):
- McDaniel, Miami’s head coach, has quickly become known for his innovative offensive schemes. Coming from a background steeped in the Shanahan coaching tree, McDaniel emphasizes zone blocking and play-action passing to open up deep shots down the field. His approach is aggressive and forward-thinking, often relying on the speed of his wide receivers and the quick decision-making of his quarterbacks.
- McDaniel’s teams are built around versatility, with players like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle capable of lining up in multiple spots to create mismatches. His offensive creativity has made Miami one of the most dangerous teams in the NFL when fully healthy. McDaniel also has a strong commitment to the run game, often using it to set up explosive plays in the passing game, especially with Tua back at QB.

Analysis:

Cardinals’ Path to Victory: Arizona’s key to winning this game is limiting Tua’s big-play ability while continuing to exploit Miami’s defensive struggles. If Kyler Murray can use his legs to extend plays and Arizona’s running game is effective, they should be able to keep the game close. Arizona’s defense needs to tighten up, though, especially in the secondary, to avoid giving up explosive plays to Miami’s talented receiving corps.
Dolphins’ Path to Victory: Miami must capitalize on Tua’s return by attacking Arizona’s vulnerable defense. The Dolphins will look to use their speed on the outside, with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle likely playing prominent roles. If Miami’s defense can find a way to slow down Kyler Murray and keep Arizona’s running game in check, the Dolphins have a strong chance of pulling out a win at home.

This should be a fast-paced, high-scoring affair, with both teams trading blows throughout. The Dolphins have a slight edge with Tua back, but it could come down to the final possession in this thrilling matchup.