Indianapolis Colts vs Miami Dolphins Picks and Predictions September 7th 2025

Miami Looks to Regain Explosiveness

The Miami Dolphins are aiming to bounce back from an 8-9 season that ended without a playoff berth. After two straight trips to the AFC wild card round in 2022 and 2023, Miami is hoping for a return to form when it meets the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday.

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa enters his sixth season as the Dolphins’ starter. His health will be critical after missing six games in 2024, and Miami retooled its offensive line to jump-start a rushing attack that faltered last year. The Dolphins’ vertical passing game remains dangerous with Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, but the offense will need a more balanced attack to reach its full potential.

Running back De’Von Achane, expected to start despite calf issues, could be an early difference-maker. Coach Mike McDaniel emphasized that protection and the run game must set up the explosive throws Miami thrives on. For more breakdowns of early matchups, visit the NFL previews section

Colts Turn to Daniel Jones

The Indianapolis Colts are also coming off an 8-9 season and have not made the playoffs since 2020. Coach Shane Steichen named Daniel Jones the Week 1 starter over 2023 first-round pick Anthony Richardson. Jones has faced Miami once before, in 2023, when he went 14-of-20 for 119 yards but was sacked six times in a loss.

Indianapolis fortified its secondary after a string of offseason injuries by signing four-time Pro Bowl cornerback Xavien Howard, a former Dolphin, to a one-year deal. The Colts’ defense enters Week 1 healthy, giving them a boost against Tagovailoa and Miami’s high-powered receivers. Bettors can review more projections and analysis at the NFL picks page

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Defensive Matchup Key to Opener

Miami’s defense blends returning stars Bradley Chubb, Jaelan Phillips, Chop Robinson, and Zach Sieler with the addition of four-time Pro Bowl linebacker Matthew Judon. Their ability to pressure Jones could set the tone. Steichen noted that Miami’s defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver mixes coverages well and deploys an effective pass rush, putting added pressure on the Colts’ offensive line.This trench battle will be pivotal as both teams search for a winning formula to open the year. For more insights into matchups and trends, check the NFL expert betting guidehem a boost against Tagovailoa and Miami’s high-powered receivers. Bettors can review more projections and analysis at the NFL picks page

Series History and Injury Report

The Dolphins lead the all-time series 48-29, though the Colts have won the last two meetings. Miami’s last win over Indianapolis came in 2019.

The Dolphins’ injury report features tight end Darren Waller (hip, did not practice), running back Jaylen Wright (knee, did not practice), and cornerback Ethan Bonner (hamstring, did not practice). Hill, Achane, offensive tackle Austin Jackson, safety Ashtyn Davis, and receiver Dee Eskridge were all limited participants.

For Indianapolis, only reserve running back Tyler Goodson (elbow) was listed as limited. Updated lines and injury information can be found in the NFL scores and odds section

Betting and Handicapping Resources

This Week 1 matchup offers plenty of storylines for bettors and fans alike. Whether it’s tracking player availability, analyzing recent history, or weighing quarterback play, both teams bring intrigue as they try to rebound from disappointing 2024 seasons.

Stay ahead of the action by following team profiles at the NFL teams page checking trusted buy picks, or reviewing the best handicappers leaderboard