The AFC East takes center stage Thursday night when the Miami Dolphins travel to face the Buffalo Bills in a divisional showdown under the lights at Highmark Stadium. Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET, available to watch on Amazon Prime Video.
Recap: How They Got Here
Buffalo Bills (2–0, 1–0 AFC East)
The Bills have looked like the contenders they were projected to be, leading the NFL in total yards (900), and beating the Baltimore Ravens in Week 1 behind a vintage Josh Allen fourth-quarter performance. Last week, Buffalo beat the Jets comfortably, riding on a strong 132-yard rushing performance by running back James Cook, as well as sparks from the defense, forcing four fumbles and adding four sacks. Overall, the Bills were efficient in the red zone last week and continue to build momentum into what looks like a favorable matchup against Miami.
Miami Dolphins (0–2, 0–1 AFC East)
The Dolphins, meanwhile, are still searching for their first victory. Miami fell to New England 33–27 last week in a game that showed flashes of potential but also plenty of concerns. Tua rebounded from a shaky performance against the Colts, spreading the ball well to wideouts Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, as well as phenom running back Devon Achane. However, it wasn’t enough, as a sack on 4th-and-12 ended their comeback attempt. Offensive line struggles remain a major concern, killing momentum on key possessions.The defense also allowed three red zone touchdowns, something they cannot afford to do this week against an even tougher opponent and rival.
Keys to Watch
Allen vs. Miami’s Secondary: Buffalo’s vertical passing game has been explosive through two weeks, although they didn’t need it as much against the Jets. The Dolphins must limit big plays to keep the game within reach.
Protecting Tua: Miami’s offensive line has been shaky early on, allowing eight sacks on Tua so far this season. Buffalo’s pass rush is one of the league’s most disruptive, although they will be without key defensive tackle Ed Oliver and linebacker Matt Milano. Keeping Tagovailoa upright will be critical.
Red-Zone Execution: Buffalo has been efficient at finishing drives with touchdowns, and Miami needs to answer in kind and avoid settling for field goals.
Recent History
Buffalo has dominated the rivalry recently, winning six of the last seven meetings, including multiple one-possession games.
Outlook
The Bills are in rhythm early and carry clear advantages in pass protection, defensive pressure, and recent head-to-head results. Miami, however, has the speed on offense to strike quickly and change momentum if the protection holds. For Buffalo, the formula is simple: continue to finish drives and let the defense dictate the tempo. For Miami, it’s about limiting mistakes, hitting on quick-game timing, and staying within striking distance.