SLR Predictions: Detroit Lions at Miami Dolphins

The SideLion Report writers give you their take on the upcoming game and predict the final score.

Latif: I think this week’s matchup against the Dolphins will be surprisingly tough.

On offense, the Lions will have a tough time against a Dolphins defense that features linebackers like Karlos Dansby and Cameron Wake, and a stud corner like Vontae Davis. I think Drew Stanton’s mobility will be a key in this game. The Dolphins are giving up 3.6 yards per carry, and one of the best ways to run the ball would be with Stanton. Expect the Lions to follow a similar game-plan as they did in the Bears game.

On defense, the Lions don’t have to do too much. If Chris Houston can keep Brandon Marshall at bay, then the Lions can force the offense to become one dimensional. Getting pressure on Chad Henne, who has thrown 16 interceptions, 6th most in the league, will be a key. Final score: Dolphins 20, Lions 14

Ross: The Detroit Lions hope to extend their winning streak in Miami on Sunday. The Phins have a 7-7 record but have only won once at home. Miami’s offense ranks 31st in scoring, averaging 17.1 points per game. Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown average 91.4 yards per game rushing together. Miami’s strong point is definitely their defense. As stated in Latif’s post, Mike Nolan has turned around the Dolphin defense into being one of the best in the NFL. The star of Miami’s defense is second year pro and linebacker, Cameron Wake. Wake has 14 sacks this year, the most in the league.

I believe the key for the Lions is to have a good balance of the run and the pass. Shaun Hill gets the start for the Lions, who is a much better passer then Stanton. Maurice Morris has played great over the past couple weeks, hopefully he continues. I think with Hill as the QB, the Lions win close and continue their winning streak. Lions 24, Dolphins 21

Zac: This game boils down to one key: the Lions run defense against the Dolphins running game. Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams form one of the league’s most potent ground duos, especially when Brown gets going from the wildcat formation.

Chad Henne has been relatively mediocre this year and the Dolphins don’t possess the kind of passing game that can win a game should they find themselves unable to run the ball. The best way for the Lions to force the Dolphins to put the ball in the air is to jump out to an early lead. Unfortunately, this is easier said than done.

At this point in the year we can be confident the Lions will be competitive and last week showed us they might even be able to leave South Florida with a win. I correctly picked the Lions to win last week but I see the Dolphins doing enough to halt the Lions’ win streak at two. Dolphins 20, Lions 16

You’ve heard what we are thinking, what do you say?

Like what you see? Give SideLion Report a “like” on facebook, become a follower on twitter, or grab our RSS feed.