Dolphins vs Jaguars: 2024 Season Opener Preview and Prediction

The 2024 NFL season kicks off with a battle between two Florida rivals, the Miami Dolphins and the Jacksonville Jaguars, as both teams seek to make a strong start to the new campaign.

Both franchises are riding the waves of their offseason moves, highlighted by massive contract extensions for their franchise quarterbacks. Trevor Lawrence secured his future in Jacksonville with a five-year, $275 million deal, while Miami doubled down on Tua Tagovailoa, rewarding him with a four-year, $212 million extension. With new expectations, both teams hope to overcome the shortcomings of their 2023 seasons—Miami’s inability to win a playoff game and Jacksonville missing the postseason.

Dolphins’ Offensive Firepower

The Dolphins return with a high-powered offense that remains largely intact. Tyreek Hill, the NFL’s leading receiver in 2023 with 1,799 yards, will once again be the focal point of Miami’s attack, with speedsters Jaylen Waddle, De’Von Achane, and new addition Odell Beckham Jr. offering plenty of support. Raheem Mostert, who led the NFL in touchdowns with 21 last season, also adds a dynamic rushing threat.

Despite their offensive arsenal, Miami failed to address what was arguably their biggest weakness in 2023: the offensive line. Protecting Tagovailoa remains a critical concern, especially against a Jaguars defense featuring an emerging star in pass rusher Josh Hines-Allen. If Miami’s line struggles, it could put pressure on Tagovailoa to get the ball out quickly.

Jaguars Revamped and Ready

The Jaguars made significant changes to their offense, highlighted by adding wide receivers Gabe Davis and rookie Brian Thomas Jr. to complement Christian Kirk. With Trevor Lawrence at the helm and Travis Etienne providing balance in the run game, Jacksonville’s offense has plenty of potential to keep up with Miami’s high-octane attack.

Jacksonville’s defense, led by Hines-Allen and Travon Walker, will be tasked with containing Miami’s lightning-fast offense. Defensive coordinator Ryan Nielsen will need to scheme effectively to slow down the Dolphins, especially given Miami’s tendency to strike fast in the opening weeks of the season.

While the Jaguars have improved on both sides of the ball, the Dolphins’ explosive offense should prove too much for Jacksonville to handle. Tua Tagovailoa, Tyreek Hill, and Jaylen Waddle will exploit matchups in the secondary, and Miami’s speed will be the difference in this game. Despite concerns about Miami’s offensive line and the absence of key defensive playmakers, the Dolphins have enough firepower to secure a comfortable victory to start the season.

Prediction: Dolphins 34, Jaguars 17

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