Jaguars vs Dolphins Odds - Fish swim to victory in preseason debut
Miami were the NFL betting surprises of the season in 2008, going from 1-15 to 11-5 to win the AFC East. Now, they’ll have to prove last year was no fluke, and they kick off their preseason against a Jacksonville team that disappointed many last year. The Dolphins should be able to start their season on a high note with a win.
Jaguars vs Dolphins Odds: Dolphins -3
- WHAT: NFL preseason betting action
- WHEN: Monday, August 17, 7:30 PM ET
- WHERE: Land Shark Stadium
- PICK: Miami
Jaguars vs Dolphins Odds maker breakdown: Offense
David Garrard had a subpar season at quarterback last year, but the Jags’ backup situation doesn’t look good with Paul Smith, Todd Boeckman and Todd Bouman fighting for time. They’re not deep at running back or wide receiver, either. The Dolphins have Pat White and Chadd Henne to back up Chad Pennington, and White is especially intriguing as his running ability makes him a perfect fit when Miami goes into the Wildcat formation. Even though teams will be able to prepare for it now, that element of surprise is still there.
Betting Edge: Miami
Jaguars vs Dolphins Odds maker breakdown: Defense
The Jaguars had a middle-of-the-pack defense and didn’t do much to improve it, but it didn’t get worse, either. There’s a worrying lack of depth at linebacker, but the secondary is stocked, led by Reggie Nelson. The Dolphins reunited with Jason Taylor, but the bigger move was picking up Gibril Wilson from Oakland. Wilson instantly improves the secondary (and Miami’s sportsbook odds) and in a division with New England, Buffalo and the Jets, that’s crucial. Still, neither Taylor nor Wilson will play much on Monday.
Betting Edge: Jacksonville
Jaguars vs Dolphins Odds maker breakdown: Special Teams
Unless someone can take their spots, Miami’s Ted Ginn Jr. and Jacksonville’s Brian Witherspoon will be their team’s return man in Week 1, so look for many players to play this role. The Dolphins have a big edge at kicker, as Dan Carpenter had an excellent rookie year.
Betting Edge: Dolphins
Jaguars vs Dolphins Odds maker breakdown: Notable Injuries
The Dolphins had some niggling injuries in camp, mostly on offense, but it was mostly to starters, which is a boost for the players trying to make the team. The Jaguars are relatively healthy, which may put them in place for an upset if you’re betting online.
Betting Edge: Jaguars
Jaguars vs Dolphins betting breakdown: Outlook and Pick
The Jaguars have played in Miami only once, beating the Dolphins 24-10 in 2006 when Miami was on their way down. This is a much better team now, and the fans are more passionate which gives the Dolphins the edge. Jacksonville still has a way to go before they can compete in the AFC, and the offense is where it needs to start. It won’t on Monday, though. Take Miami at home to cover the spread.
STAN’S PICK: Miami
For more analysis and tips on sports betting lines, visit Stan daily in the Betting Edge at betonline.com.
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?
