Free Pick: Buffalo at Miami 9/19/21

This is a big game in the AFC East even though it is only the 2nd game of the season. The Bills blew a 10-0 halftime lead against the Steelers in Buffalo and lost their opener. If they lose this game, they will start the season 0-2 and history says that is hard to overcome. Meanwhile, the Dolphins went to New England and got a huge win over the Patriots and can start off 2-0 with both wins coming against division foes. Let’s take a look at the matchups.

Offense: When analyzing the stats from Buffalo’s opener against the Steelers, it is hard to figure how they lost. They gained 371 yards and Josh Allen had a decent game. What doesn’t show up in the stats was a blocked punt, which led to a Steelers touchdown and turned the game around. The Bills got 72 rushing yards out of Devin Singletary and 117 yards total, which is a stat they will want to improve on. Stefon Diggs and Cole Beasley caught a combined 17 passes but were limited to 129 yards and zero touchdowns. Look for some bigger plays this week. Miami was anything but spectacular on offense and managed only 259 yards. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw for 202 yards and a touchdown and will need an improved performance. The Dolphins have to be concerned about their rushing game as they managed only 74 yards on 23 carries. Wide receivers DeVante Parker and Jaylen Waddle combined for 8 catches and 141 yards and a touchdown and will be expected to make some big plays this week. Advantage: Buffalo

Defense: The Bills’ defense played very well on Sunday especially against the run as they limited the Steelers to only 75 yards. Taron Johnson, Micah Hyde, and Jordan Poyer combined for 19 tackles and a sack and upfront are led by Mario Addison and Ed Oliver. Linebackers, Tremaine Edmunds and Matt Milano are solid. Miami was solid on Sunday and limited the big play against the Patriots. They are led by linebackers, Jerome Baker and Sam Eguvoen who combined for 18 tackles. Cornerback, Nik Needham and safety, Eric Rowe chipped in with 15 more. Advantage: Neither

This is very big game for Buffalo and they need to play with urgency as they don’t want to start out 0-2 for the new season. They probably are wondering how they lost Game 1, but they did, and that’s the bottom line. They have to get more out of Josh Allen in this game. On the other hand, the Dolphins are feeling fortunate to escape with a win at New England and have a huge opportunity to win the first two games, with the added bonus of both being within the division. Buffalo is a 3.5 point favorite.

AARON’S PICK: Miami +3.5

PAPA DUDE’S PICK: Buffalo -3.5