NFL Week 10 Picks: Miami Dolphins @ Los Angeles Rams

Week 10’s Monday Night Football clash brings us the Miami Dolphins (2-6) traveling to SoFi Stadium to take on the Los Angeles Rams (4-4). Despite their contrasting records, both teams have found recent success, setting up an intriguing matchup under the primetime lights. The Dolphins, who saw a major offensive resurgence with Tua Tagovailoa’s return in Week 8, will go up against a Rams team that has clawed its way back from a tough start, now riding a three-game winning streak.

Dolphins Offense: A Revitalized Unit with Big Play Potential

The Dolphins offense has roared back to life since Tagovailoa’s return, posting 27 points in each of their last two contests. This revitalization can be attributed to the impact of star receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, who form one of the league’s most explosive receiving duos. 

Hill’s ability to stretch the field with his speed forces defenses to stay on their heels, creating ample opportunities for Waddle and Miami’s running backs. The Dolphins’ ground game has been formidable, featuring Devon Achane and Raheem Mostert, a combination that can keep defenses honest and open up deep shots down the field.

Since Tua’s return, the Dolphins’ ability to produce explosive plays has been evident, making them a constant threat to opposing secondaries. However, Miami has been plagued by defensive struggles, conceding 28 and 30 points in those last two games. This high-powered offense will need to score consistently to stay in the game, given the Dolphins’ challenges on defense. 

Rams Offense: Balanced Attack and Key Playmakers

The Rams have taken a balanced approach to their offensive resurgence, which has been crucial to their success. The team has improved to 4-4, thanks to versatile RB Kyren Williams, who has provided stability on the ground while also contributing in the passing game. Williams has been a reliable weapon for quarterback Matthew Stafford, who has gotten a recent boost with the return of his primary targets, Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua.

Despite Nacua’s suspension for the first half due to an ejection in Week 9, he and Kupp have shown excellent synergy with Stafford, both of them putting up 100-yard games recently. This duo will be essential to keep the Rams offense moving against a Dolphins defense that has struggled against top-tier WRs. Kupp’s route-running ability and Nacua’s knack for finding soft spots in coverage give Stafford plenty of options, allowing the Rams to exploit weaknesses in the Dolphins’ secondary.

With a balanced run-pass attack and multiple offensive threats, the Rams have an opportunity to control the tempo, especially against a Miami defense that has struggled to contain both the run and the pass. Look for Stafford to lean heavily on quick passes and play-action to keep the Miami defense guessing, which could create high-scoring potential in this matchup.

Key Matchups to Watch

1. Dolphins WRs vs. Rams Secondary: Miami’s passing attack, led by Hill and Waddle, will test the Rams’ secondary, which has shown some vulnerability to big plays. In recent weeks, the Rams’ defense has allowed standout performances by the likes of Justin Jefferson and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. With Hill’s deep threat and Waddle’s route-running, the Dolphins are well-equipped to challenge this Rams defense.
2. Rams Run Game vs. Dolphins Front Seven: The Rams’ ground game, powered by Williams, will be essential in keeping the Dolphins offense off the field. Miami has had difficulty stopping the run, and if Williams can establish himself early, it could open up passing lanes for Stafford. By controlling the clock, the Rams can force Miami’s defense to stay on the field, potentially wearing them down as the game progresses.
3. Miami’s Rushing Duo vs. Rams Linebackers: Achane and Mostert will have their work cut out against a Rams defense that has been inconsistent against the run. Achane’s breakaway speed and Mostert’s power running could keep Los Angeles’ front seven on its heels, creating opportunities for Tua to take shots downfield. A productive run game from the Dolphins would also help mitigate the Rams’ pass rush and create a balanced offensive attack.

Game Outlook and Expectations

This matchup has all the ingredients for a high-scoring showdown, with both offenses coming in at nearly full strength. Miami’s defense has shown resilience, but with consistent lapses in coverage and against the run, they’ll be vulnerable to a Rams team that’s found its offensive stride. Similarly, the Rams defense has struggled against speedy wideouts, which could spell trouble as they try to contain Hill and Waddle.

With the Rams playing at home and looking to continue their winning momentum, they may have a slight edge. But given Miami’s explosive capabilities, particularly with Tua, Hill and Waddle back on the field, this game has the potential to be a back-and-forth contest where neither defense can afford to slip up.

Our Pick: Tua Tagovailoa 2+ Passing TDs