The Miami Dolphins season began with high hopes, coming off of a productive 2023 season. Unfortunately, their season was derailed by a concussion suffered by starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in week two against division-rival Buffalo Bills. Much like the Dolphins, the Indianapolis Colts suffered an injury to their QB1 Anthony Richardson. Unlike the Dolphins, the Colts hope to see their primary quarterback at the helm in their matchup in week seven.
Heading into the match in Indianapolis, both squads have reasons to win and believe they should win.
Miami Dolphins Keys To Victory
The Miami Dolphins offense has found an identity without Tua Tagovailoa, and though it is not a pretty one, the Fins can pick up another win without their QB1. With the return of Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane, the emergence of Jaylen Wright, and the immaculate play of fullback Alec Ingold, the Dolphins should stick to the run game that ground them out a win against the New England Patriots.
The Dolphins’ defense has been great at disrupting offenses, Leading the NFL in limiting third-down conversions (25.5% allowed). Under Anthony Weaver, the unit has consistently made key adjustments after halftime, securing three fourth-quarter shutouts in 2024. They have also been impressive against the pass, ranking third in the league for fewest passing yards allowed per game and fifth least in total yards allowed per game.
Indianapolis Colts Start Anthony Richardson
The Colts hope to see success out of their young quarterback Anthony Richardson as they attempt to go above .500 and stay in the AFC playoff race. Richardson is coming off of an Oblique injury, and veteran Joe Flacco did more than fill shoes. Head Coach Shane Steichen talked about Richardson’s injury leading up to the week seven matchup.
“I wanted to make sure he was 100%,” Steichen said Monday. “That’s what went into the decision (of Richardson not playing in week six). He’s really close. That’s why we had him as our third/emergency quarterback. But he should be looking really good this week.”
“Flacco’s a really good player and playing good ball for us, but when Anthony’s healthy, he’s our quarterback,” Steichen said.
As for Anthony Richardon, he appears to be ready with any outcome regarding his injury.
“Anything for the team,” he said. “If they feel like it’s best for me to sit another week, I’m listening to them. If they feel like it’s best for me to go out there and play, I’m going to listen to them. Whatever they feel is best for the team, that’s what it is.”
Miami Looks To Stay .500 Minus Tagovailoa
The Miami Dolphins face a critical matchup in Indianapolis in week seven following their bye week. A win would elevate their record to 3-3 and keep playoff hopes alive. After the Bills improved to 4-2 Monday night over the Jets, the Dolphins can not afford to lose ground in the AFC East. A win against the Colts becomes more important when accounting for Tua Tagovailoa’s injury timeline.
If the Miami Dolphins manage to even their record, it would only be momentum into Week 8, a potential return date for Tua. That game against the Arizona Cardinals would lead to a key AFC East matchup in Buffalo that would hold major playoff implications later in the season.
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