Joint practices this week between the Dolphins and Bears were highly intense. So much so that I believe it may have changed each coach’s plans heading into their Sunday afternoon preseason matchup.
These practices with live reps often have more importance than the preseason games themselves. Ben Johnson has seen enough to rest nine starters on each side of the football. This has created some value on the Dolphins as a short road underdog.
Let's get into my Dolphins vs Bears prediction and my NFL predictions for preseason Week 1.
Dolphins vs Bears Odds
| Dolphins Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
+3 -110 | 35.5 -110o / -110u | +140 |
| Bears Odds | ||
|---|---|---|
| Spread | Total | Moneyline |
-3 -110 | 35.5 -110o / -110u | -165 |
- Dolphins-Bears Point Spread: Dolphins +3 (-110) · Bears -3 (-110)
- Dolphins-Bears Total: Over/Under 34.5 (-115/-105)
- Dolphins-Bears Moneyline: Dolphins +145 · Bears -165
NFL Picks: Preseason Week 1
The Dolphins’ starting offensive unit was dominated by the Chicago defense in practice this week, by all accounts of beat reporters at training camp. Mike McDaniel and his staff realized they have more work to do behind a rebuilt offensive line heading into the regular season.
Tua Tagovailoa didn’t play in week 1 of the preseason in 2024, but he did take the field and lead his team to an opening drive touchdown in week 2 when his number was called. If Tua does play, look for McDaniel to facilitate a fast start so that he isn't in the game long.
As McDaniel tries to re-establish a winning culture in what has been a tumultuous 18 months for the franchise, he is looking to put forward something positive on tape. There is no way to be certain Tua will start the game given his injury history, but the Dolphins have an experienced backup in Zach Wilson.
Wilson may not conjure up a great deal of confidence when you hear his name, but having a quarterback with starting experience is undoubtedly an edge to look for during exhibition games, considering they now find themselves having the benefits of playing against backups, and very often, younger players looking to make it in the NFL.
We’ve seen Wilson execute a proficient offensive attack as recently as last season with the Broncos. Getting extensive action as the Broncos’ backup, Wilson played extremely well as he finished the preseason with a QBR of 115.4. Wilson averaged 9.0 yards per attempt on 44 passes and registered three touchdown passes to zero interceptions.
On the defensive side of the ball for Miami, we should see the debut of 1st-round pick EDGE Chop Robinson. While it will be exciting to see Robinson get his first taste of NFL action, the middle will be manned by former Chiefs’ linebacker Willie Gay. Gay is currently working with the 2nd-team, which means he should be in the game for nearly the entirety of the first half. Gay is said to be having an outstanding camp, and he will be motivated to continue his ascent up the depth chart.
Furthermore, when it comes to the Dolphins’ defensive backfield, they shouldn’t be comfortable with who they will be starting on opening day in Indianapolis, but they won’t exactly be tasked with facing a top passing offense on Sunday when they see Tyson Bagent and Case Keenum still learning a new system.
The cornerback battle for Miami is 5-6 players deep in terms of having a real chance to contribute on defense. Miami defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver getting his top guys at cornerback extended action should be a priority here to assist in making the best determination on the starting lineup moving forward.
Dolphins vs Bears Predictions
Based on how these teams performed in joint practices, the feeling is that this game means more to the Dolphins. Trends also suggest that Miami is the value side. Since the 2018 preseason, short underdogs on the road have covered the spread at a remarkable 66% rate. This trend incorporates all road underdogs up to +3 with a sample size of 113 games, excluding games that resulted in a push. I will gladly take the Dolphins and points for Sunday’s matinee.
Pick: Dolphins +3 (BetMGM)
How to Watch Dolphins vs Bears
| Location: | Soldier Field |
| Date: | Sunday, August 10 |
| Kickoff Time: | 1 p.m. ET |
Dolphins vs Bears will be live from Soldier Field in Chicago at 1 p.m. ET on Sunday, Aug. 10.
