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NFL Week 3 Picks and Odds: Miami Dolphins vs. Seattle Seahawks Prediction - Game Analysis

The Miami Dolphins (1-1) head to Seattle to face the undefeated Seattle Seahawks (2-0) in a Week 3 matchup at Lumen Field. This game will kick off at 1:05 PM ET on Sunday, September 22, 2024, with coverage provided by CBS. Both teams have started the season with contrasting fortunes, and the Seahawks will look to maintain their strong start, while the Dolphins attempt to bounce back after a disappointing loss in Week 2.

 

Game Odds

Team	Spread	Total (O/U)	Moneyline
Miami Dolphins (1-1)	+4.5 (-110)	O 41.5 (-115)	+180
Seattle Seahawks (2-0)	-4.5 (-110)	U 41.5 (-105)	-215

Team Analysis

Miami Dolphins

Miami is dealing with significant roster challenges, particularly at quarterback, as starter Tua Tagovailoa is out with injury, forcing backup Skylar Thompson to take over. Thompson has struggled in his limited appearances, and the Dolphins’ offensive production has suffered. Miami’s run game, led by rookie De’Von Achane, has shown potential, but the offense as a whole has been inconsistent. Tyreek Hill remains the biggest threat in the passing game, but with a backup quarterback under center, it’s uncertain how much impact he’ll have.

The defense, which allowed 31 points to the Buffalo Bills in Week 2, needs to tighten up against Seattle’s balanced offense. Miami’s pass rush and secondary will have to step up, particularly with safety Patrick McMorris on injured reserve. They’ll face a tough test against the Seahawks’ efficient attack.

Seattle Seahawks

Seattle has started the season strong, winning both of their first two games, including a dramatic overtime victory against New England in Week 2. Geno Smith has been efficient, throwing for 498 yards with 2 touchdowns and only 1 interception. Running back Kenneth Walker III has been effective, contributing 103 rushing yards and a touchdown, while D.K. Metcalf leads the receiving corps with 158 yards and a score.

Defensively, Seattle has allowed an average of 20 points per game, but they’ve shown resilience when it matters most. They’ll look to contain Miami’s speed on the outside while capitalizing on the Dolphins’ inexperience at quarterback. Linebackers Boye Mafe and Derick Hall are questionable, and their availability could impact Seattle’s ability to apply pressure on Thompson.

Coaches Analysis

Mike McDaniel (Miami Dolphins)

Mike McDaniel, in his second year with the Dolphins, has faced early adversity this season. Known for his innovative offensive schemes, McDaniel’s creativity will be put to the test as he tries to engineer scoring drives with a backup quarterback and a young running back. His ability to adjust the offense to match Thompson’s skill set will be crucial if Miami is to keep pace with Seattle.

Pete Carroll (Seattle Seahawks)

Pete Carroll continues to demonstrate his coaching prowess, guiding the Seahawks to a 2-0 start. Carroll’s defensive-minded approach has been a hallmark of his tenure, and he’ll aim to shut down Miami’s offense by forcing Thompson into difficult situations. On offense, Carroll’s balanced attack has been key, and he’ll likely lean on the run game and short passes to wear down the Dolphins' defense.

Recent Performance

Miami Dolphins

• Week 1: Won 20-17 vs Jacksonville Jaguars
• Week 2: Lost 31-10 vs Buffalo Bills

Miami opened the season with a narrow win over Jacksonville, but their Week 2 performance against Buffalo exposed several weaknesses. With Tagovailoa out, the Dolphins' offense lacked rhythm, and their defense struggled to contain the Bills’ potent attack. Heading into Week 3, Miami will need to find answers quickly on both sides of the ball.

Seattle Seahawks

• Week 1: Won 26-20 vs Denver Broncos
• Week 2: Won 23-20 OT vs New England Patriots

Seattle has started 2-0, with both wins coming in close contests. In Week 1, they edged out the Broncos, and in Week 2, they won in overtime against the Patriots. Geno Smith has been solid, and the team’s defense has made key stops when needed. Seattle enters Week 3 with momentum, looking to continue their undefeated run at home.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Miami and Seattle rarely meet, but the Seahawks have been the more consistent team so far this season. With the Dolphins missing key players on offense and relying on a backup quarterback, the Seahawks’ defense should have the upper hand. Seattle’s balanced attack and home-field advantage make them the clear favorite in this matchup.

ATS Records

• Miami Dolphins: 1-1 ATS in 2024
• Seattle Seahawks: 2-0 ATS in 2024

The Dolphins have split against the spread this season, covering in Week 1 but failing to do so in their blowout loss to Buffalo in Week 2. Meanwhile, the Seahawks have been perfect against the spread, covering in both of their first two games. Seattle’s strong start and Miami’s injury issues make the Seahawks a solid bet to cover again in Week 3.

Betting Stats and Trends

• The UNDER has hit in 4 of Seattle’s last 6 games.
• The total has gone UNDER in 5 of Miami’s last 7 games.
• Seattle is 5-2 ATS in their last 7 home games.
• The total has gone UNDER in 6 of Miami’s last 8 road games.
• Seattle is 4-1 SU in their last 5 games against AFC teams.

 

Prediction