The Miami Dolphins are set to kick off their 2025 season with an away game against the Indianapolis Colts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Scheduled for September 7th, the matchup will be broadcast on CBS at 1:00 PM. Although the weather forecast predicts overcast clouds, the retractable roof at the stadium ensures that play conditions remain unaffected by wind or rain.
Under head coach Mike McDaniel, the Dolphins aim to capitalize on their preseason momentum. Miami displayed strong performances in their recent preseason games, securing victories over the Jacksonville Jaguars and Detroit Lions. Notably, they showcased an effective passing game, with significant contributions from Tua Tagovailoa and Zach Wilson.
The Colts, led by head coach Shane Steichen, are coming off a commanding preseason victory over the Cincinnati Bengals. Playing at home, they hope to leverage their recent success and home-field advantage. The consensus odds indicate a slight edge for the Colts, who are favored by 1.5 points in the spread.
Colts vs Dolphins At a Glance
- Game Location: Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN, USA
- Game Time: Sunday, September 7, 2025, at 1:00 PM (Afternoon Game)
- Weather Forecast: Mild day with a light breeze, overcast clouds
- TV Broadcast: CBS
- Moneyline Odds: Miami Dolphins -108, Indianapolis Colts -111
- Point Spread: Dolphins +1.5 (-118), Colts -1.5 (-103)
Indianapolis Colts Prepare for Upcoming Game
Quarterback Performance
The Indianapolis Colts have demonstrated a mix of talent and areas needing improvement at the quarterback position. Anthony Richardson Sr. played 11 games, achieving 1,814 passing yards, ranking 33rd in the league, and contributing 8 passing touchdowns.
Joe Flacco, although now with the Cleveland Browns, participated in 8 games, throwing for 1,761 yards and 12 touchdowns, maintaining a higher efficiency with fewer interceptions. This showcases the depth and diversity in the Colts’ quarterback lineup.
Running Back Contributions
Jonathan Taylor has been a significant force in the Colts’ rushing attack, participating in 14 games and accumulating 1,431 rushing yards, ranking 4th in the league. His 11 rushing touchdowns solidify his role as a crucial player in the Colts’ offensive strategy.
Supporting Taylor, Trey Sermon and Tyler Goodson, though contributing less, provide additional options in the rushing department. Their involvement is essential for maintaining a balanced offense throughout the season.
Receiving and Defensive Insights
Alec Pierce and Josh Downs have been standout wide receivers, with Pierce accumulating 824 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns over 16 games. Downs contributed with 803 yards and 5 touchdowns in 14 games, showcasing strong receiving depth.
Defensively, the Colts have excelled in causing turnovers, with 16 opponent passing interceptions, ranking 4th, and 10 fumbles recovered, ranking 5th. These statistics indicate a defense capable of capitalizing on opponents’ mistakes.
Preseason Performance
In their recent preseason games, the Colts displayed varied results. They secured a decisive 41-14 victory against the Cincinnati Bengals, demonstrating offensive prowess with 275 passing yards and 197 rushing yards.
However, the Colts faced defeats against the Green Bay Packers and Baltimore Ravens, with scores of 23-19 and 24-16, respectively. These games highlighted areas needing improvement, particularly in controlling the rushing game of opponents.
Team Betting Trends
- The Colts covered the spread in 1 of their 3 preseason games.
- They won outright as underdogs against the Bengals.
- In games with a total over 40 points, the Colts went over twice.
- The Colts’ defense was effective in holding opponents under 20 points once during the preseason.
Miami Dolphins Prepare for Battle Against the Colts
Offensive Insights
The Miami Dolphins ended their 2024 regular season with a total score of 345, ranking them 21st in the league. Their passing game saw more success, with 3,737 passing yards, placing them 15th. Rushing was a weaker point, as they managed 1,795 yards, holding the 20th spot.
In terms of first downs, the Dolphins achieved 345, ranking them 12th. However, their third down conversion rate of 36.3% was only good enough for the 21st position. They need to focus on improving these conversion opportunities to sustain offensive drives.
Defensive Analysis
Defensively, the Dolphins performed better, allowing an opponent score of 364, ranking them 10th. They also recorded 35 sacks, placing them 14th in the league. Their defense was effective in turnovers, recovering 6 fumbles and securing 10 interceptions, ranking 9th and 10th, respectively.
The Dolphins’ defense stood strong in yardage, allowing only 5,344 opponent offensive yards, which was the 4th best in the league. This indicates a strong defensive line capable of containing opposing offenses. Their ability to pressure quarterbacks and force turnovers is a critical asset.
Key Players to Watch
Tua Tagovailoa leads the Dolphins’ offense with 2,867 passing yards, ranking 21st. Despite injuries to key players like Tyreek Hill, Tagovailoa’s ability to distribute the ball effectively will be crucial. De’Von Achane, with 907 rushing yards, will be another player to watch, although his status is questionable due to a calf injury.
On defense, Bradley Chubb and Channing Tindall have been standout performers. Chubb’s pass-rushing ability, coupled with Tindall’s tackling skills, form the backbone of the Dolphins’ defensive efforts. Maintaining pressure on the Colts’ offense will be key to their success.
Recent Preseason Performance
The Dolphins had a mixed preseason, starting with a 24-24 tie against the Chicago Bears. They then secured a 24-17 victory against the Detroit Lions, showing improvements in both offense and defense. Their final preseason game was a 14-6 win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
In these games, Zach Wilson and Malik Washington were notable contributors on offense. On defense, the likes of Grayson Murphy and Chop Robinson made significant impacts. These performances provide a promising outlook heading into the regular season.
Team Betting Trends
- The Dolphins covered the spread in 2 out of their last 3 preseason games.
- They have a strong under trend, with the total going under in 2 of the 3 preseason games.
- In games played away, the Dolphins have struggled historically, needing to improve this season.
Colts vs Dolphins Prediction: Colts -1.5
The Colts are slightly favored at home with a spread of -1.5 (-103) against the Dolphins. Looking at last season, Indianapolis had a stronger overall scoring offense, ranking 16th compared to the Dolphins’ 21st. With the home advantage at Lucas Oil Stadium, the Colts might be better positioned to cover the spread.
Defensively, the Dolphins were better last season, ranking 10th in opponent score compared to the Colts’ 23rd. However, the Colts’ recent head-to-head dominance, having won their last four meetings, suggests they know how to handle Miami effectively. This could give them an edge in securing a narrow win this week.
The Colts’ running game, ranked 8th last season, could prove to be a decisive factor against the Dolphins’ 20th-ranked rushing defense. Given the retractable roof of Lucas Oil Stadium, weather conditions won’t disrupt game plans, allowing the Colts to leverage their running game effectively.
Projected final score leans towards a close game, with Indianapolis likely edging out Miami. This prediction aligns with the Colts covering the -1.5 spread, considering their offensive capabilities and recent head-to-head success.
- Colts vs Dolphins Prediction: Colts -1.5
- Colts vs Dolphins Score: Colts 24 – Dolphins 21
