Patriots +3 -107
This really isn't based much on what I saw in Week 1, which was definitely encouraging if you're a New England fan. I think this team has been a little bit undervalued from the jump, and this game is no exception. Remember, I have Miami winning the AFC East. So I have a lot of faith in them in the big picture. But I think this will be a challenging game for them.
First and foremost, I have faith in the Patriots being able to force the Dolphins to be a one-dimensional passing team. And while that may not detract Miami backers -- they basically were one-dimensional against the Chargers -- I think throwing all over the Patriots will be a much tougher task. The Patriots simply have much better personnel to challenge perimeter speed of the Dolphins, and it is also very unlikely Tua/Hill are gonna go off like that again. I like those guys a lot, but back-to-back performances of that level is hard against any defense -- let alone against a tough one that is extremely well-coached. As great as the Dolphins looked through the air, I think it's going to be tough for them to get the run game going. They struggled a bit, and while I like their OL from a pass-protecting standpoint, their run-blocking isn't nearly as strong. They will figure it out as the season goes on, but I don't think their running game is in tune yet.
On the other side of the ball, the Dolphins showed some vulnerability -- especially against the run. Again, I think this is something they can eventually figure out, but I think the Patriots will be able to control to ball with a strong running game and move the sticks. They also will likely get some play-action opportunities out of this; I don't expect a huge game from Mac Jones, but I think he will be able to make a couple of big plays that could play a huge difference here.
Big picture: I think both of these teams are a little underrated. In this spot -- New England team needing a win at home in primetime -- plus some favorable match-ups, I think the Patriots get it done. I thought about taking the money line because I think they will win this one outright, but gonna settle with taking 3 points while it's available.
Patriots also going to wear their red uniforms, and I think they play better in those (maybe I'm wrong, but they look cool)