The Miami Dolphins enter Week 12 of the NFL season looking to bounce back after a rough showing against the Buffalo Bills. Miami admirably moved the ball through the air against Buffalo, but couldn’t stop QB Josh Allen at any point — which proved to be the difference as Miami was constantly in chase mode. A loss? Not that unexpected. And a loss this week against the Cleveland Browns would hardly be a surprise either.
But there may be some surprises and big stories along the way. Here are three bold predictions for this Sunday’s contest in Cleveland.
WR Jarvis Landry finds the end zone
Is this really a bold prediction? Maybe not. You already know Jarvis Landry is going to come out hot for his first game against his former team. Landry has enjoyed a productive season for Cleveland and is averaging over 14 yards per reception this season — he’s on pace for 1,000 yards this season and has become one of the focal points of the offense.
Landry is going to get his looks. And Freddie Kitchens comes across as the kind of coach that will go out of his way to let his players stick it to the opposition. Look for a big day.
The Browns will not sack QB Ryan Fitzpatrick
The Browns still have the edge in talent, but they’ll be without three of their four starters on the defense line with Myles Garrett and Larry Ogunjobi suspended and Olivier Vernon injured. That adds up to ease the pressure on the Dolphins’ offensive line, especially against the pass. Fitzpatrick will still probably need to throw the ball a ton, but without their best threats off the edge, Cleveland should struggle to pressure Miami.
Miami wins the turnover battle but loses the war
As a result of Cleveland’s lack of rush, Fitzpatrick should be able to make crisp decisions with the football and ensure he’s going to the open man. Is ball security enough to protect the Dolphins in their contest against Cleveland? It’s doubtful — the Browns boast so much more talent than Miami at this point in the season and therefore Cleveland should wrap this thing up, even if they shoot themselves in the foot.
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