Falcons Edge Dolphins in Close Contest

What we said beforehand

The Miami Dolphins will take on the Atlanta Falcons at Hard Rock Stadium on August 28, 2026, in a matchup that promises to be compelling for fans and analysts alike. The Dolphins are currently struggling, holding a 0-2 record this season, while the Falcons have managed to secure a 1-1 record, giving them a slight edge as they head into this contest.

The Dolphins enter this game on a three-game losing streak, having lost their last five matches overall. Their recent results include a 26-3 defeat to the New York Giants, a 20-7 loss against the Washington Commanders, and a heavy 38-10 loss to the New England Patriots. In their last five games, the Dolphins have averaged just 12.2 points scored per game while allowing an average of 29.2 points, highlighting their struggles on both sides of the ball. At home, they have a record of 0-2 this season and have averaged 17.7 points scored while allowing 22.7 points in their last ten games.

In contrast, the Falcons are coming off a win against the Indianapolis Colts, where they won decisively with a score of 34-6. They have won four of their last five games, with an average of 22.6 points scored and 18.6 points allowed during that stretch. Their away record stands at 1-1 this season, and they have shown a tendency to perform better on the road, with a 4-1 record in their last five away games.

Historically, the Dolphins and Falcons have met once in recent times, with the Dolphins winning that encounter 34-10 on October 26, 2025. This previous meeting may provide some confidence for Miami, but the current form of both teams suggests that the Falcons will be a formidable opponent.

In terms of injuries, the Dolphins have several key players listed as questionable, including Kenneth Grant (leg), Ronnie Harrison Jr. (hamstring), and Ollie Gordon II (ribs). Trey Moore is out with an ankle injury, and Cole Turner is on Injured Reserve due to an undisclosed issue. For the Falcons, Michael Penix Jr. (knee - ACL) and Kam Dewberry (leg) are both questionable, while Trey Sermon, Malik Verdon, and Jalon Walker are on Injured Reserve.

The betting market has set the odds for this matchup with the Falcons favored by 6 points, according to DraftKings. The total for the game is set at 34.5. The Dolphins are listed at +199 on the moneyline, while the Falcons are at -248.

Weather conditions for the game are expected to be warm, with a temperature around 89°F and a 29% chance of precipitation. Winds may gust up to 10 mph, which could influence play, particularly for passing and kicking.

As fans prepare for this intriguing matchup, they should watch for the performance of Dolphins quarterback Cam Miller, who has thrown for 60 yards this season, and running back Cam Miller, who has also contributed in the rushing game. On the Falcons' side, Jack Strand has been effective in the passing game, throwing for 212 yards and a touchdown in his last outing, while Tyler Goodson has been a reliable option in the backfield.

This game presents an opportunity for both teams to either turn their seasons around or continue down their current paths. The Dolphins will be looking to break their losing streak at home, while the Falcons aim to build on their recent success and establish themselves as a competitive force in the league.