Dolphins vs Falcons Odds - Disciplined Dolphins to surprise Falcons

The Dolphins vs Falcons odds pit two teams who were among the biggest surprises in 2008. Both teams have improved their rosters in the offseason, which sets up for an entertaining contest. The pressure is on the Falcons in their home opener, though, and online betting players should expect the Dolphins to do what they normally do: play smart and stick around.

Dolphins vs Falcons odds: Falcons -4

• WHAT: NFL betting
  
• WHEN: Thursday, September 10th – 8:30 PM ET
  
• WHERE: Georgiadome – Atlanta, GA
  
• PICK: Dolphins +4

Dolphins vs Falcons odds maker breakdown: The Storyline
The Dolphins have the toughest schedule in the NFL and it starts with a road trip against an NFC playoff team from last year. While most NFL betting handicappers are discounting the Dolphins this year because of their tough to-do list, a win in Atlanta would change some opinions.

Meanwhile for Atlanta, the pressure is on. This is a team that went to the playoffs last year and added Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez in the offseason. All eyes will be on quarterback Matt Ryan to see how he has progressed.

Betting Edge: Even

Dolphins vs Falcons odds maker breakdown: Offense
The Dolphins offense isn’t flashy, but it’s effective. Chad Pennington makes smart throws and Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams provide a solid rushing threat, while the receiving corps does just enough. The Falcons defense isn’t exactly the 1985 Bears so you can expect the Dolphins to move the ball efficiently throughout this game.

For the Falcons, their offense is ahead of their defense and it will have to carry them this year. Running back Michael Turner and Matt Ryan have to lead the way in this game, but they will be tested by an underrated defense. There is no question that the Falcons have the better of the two offenses in this contest.

Betting Edge: Falcons

Dolphins vs Falcons odds maker breakdown: Defense
The Dolphins spent plenty of time and money on upgrading their secondary in the offseason, and they’ll have their hands full in Week 1. It will be interesting to see how the upgrades of Gibril Wilson, Sean Smith and Vontae Davis improves the secondary because the Dolphins have a very capable front seven – especially now with Jason Taylor back – and they could make life very difficult for the Falcons.

Atlanta’s defense has a few playmakers but not enough. Defensive end John Abraham is the main stud but he doesn’t have a whole lot of help. If the Falcons can shut down the Dolphins running game, the Dolphins will have a tough time scoring points, but considering all of the exotic formations the Dolphins use, expect them to get yards on the ground one way or another.

Betting Edge: Dolphins

Dolphins vs Falcons odds maker breakdown: Special Teams
The Falcons have the better kicking games with Jason Elam and Michael Koenen, but the return units are about even.

Betting Edge: Falcons

Dolphins vs Falcons odds maker breakdown: Notable Injuries
Both teams are healthy heading into this contest.

Betting Edge: Even

Dolphins vs Falcons betting breakdown: Outlook and Pick
The Falcons are a small home favorite in the sportsbook, but the Dolphins are the play here. They had a productive preseason and will be confident heading into this game. While both teams are fairly even and the Falcons have home field advantage, look for the Dolphins to keep this one close and potentially get the win.

STAN’S PICK: Dolphins +4

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Stan Simmons first tasted football through the college game, but his football handicapping has strictly focused on the professional sport. Not many people devote as much time to the NFL as Simmons. For six days a week he works, labors and handicaps the sport, and on the seventh he rests as the games play out. Thoughts or questions? Email Comments@BetOnline.com.