Miami Dolphins (0-0) @ Buffalo Bills (0-0)

The regular season is finally upon us and Miami looks to set the tone for the season with a win, something Tony Sparano has failed to do so far in Miami.  Many expect this to be an easy one for the Dolphins, but I don't think you can ever take a division rival for granted.  The New England Patriots nearly learned that lesson last year when they would've suffered a season opening loss to the Buffalo Bills on opening night last season if it wasn't for a horrible mistake on Buffalo's part.  So what does Miami need to do to win?

The Dolphins strength is their ability to run the ball, but Miami's offensive line has been criticized this preseason for their lack of push off the line of scrimmage.  Luckily, the Bills have been terrible at stopping the run and there has not been any signs of improvement during the preseason.

The Dolphins weakness on defense last season was their propensity for giving up too many big passing plays.  Trent Edwards has played well in the preseason, but he' ll need to show he can finally carry it over to the regular season for the Bills to win this game.  Fred Jackson will be out, but Miami's defense will focus on stopping Marshawn Lynch and CJ Spiller as well as bringing the blitz.  This will give Edwards the chance to beat Miami's secondary and he must take advantage of this.  The Dolphins can counter this by picking on Buffalo's young and poorly rated offensive line.

The Dolphins have a perfect opportunity to control the clock with their ground game, but they may also give up some big plays to Buffalo's offense.  Miami will need to limit Buffalo's opportunities by winning the turnover battle.

Matchups to watch:

Lee Evans vs Vontae Davis: If Buffalo is going to score big on passing, it will likely come from Lee Evans.  Vontae Davis will need to continue playing well and limit Edwards' chances on connecting to the dangerous Evans.

Brandon Marshall vs Terrence McGee: Buffalo will focus on stopping Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams.  Miami's offense will be successful if they can get the ball to Marshall and Davone Bess operating out of the slot.

Buffalo's Offensive Line vs Miami's Defensive Line: If Miami wins this matchup, they will be able to shut down the Bills' rushing attack.  By limiting Spiller and Lynch, Miami will have every opportunity to win.

Tony Sparano vs Chan Gailey: Normally I would not list coaches, but the Bills come in with a new head coach and a new philosophy.  This limits the amount of film available to Sparano and he will need to ensure he has a solid gameplan ready if Miami doesn't want to be surprised on opening day.

How the units matchup:

Miami's Rushing vs Buffalo's Rush Defense: Again, Buffalo's defensive line was horrible last year.  They also transition to a 3-4 and will likely see some growing pains.  Edge: Miami

Miami's Passing vs Buffalo's Pass Defense: The Bills have a solid secondary with McGee and Leodis McKelvin at CB.  Jairus Byrd will likely be back in time to play as well.  Miami has Brandon Marshall to open the passing game, but this will be a good matchup for Miami's receivers.  Edge: Draw.

Buffalo's Rushing vs Miami's Rush Defense:  The Bills have a solid backfield, but will be without Fred Jackson.  The Bills offensive line unit has not played well and will need to get a strong push if Spiller and Lynch are going to have a solid performance.  Edge: Miami

Buffalo's Passing vs Miami's Pass Defense: Lee Evans is Buffalo's primary target, but the Bills hope to get Roscoe Parrish and his speed more involved this year.  Parrish has not shown much, but he is a homerun threat if he gets his hands on the ball.  Miami will likely roll coverage to Evans' side of the field, but they'll need to make sure Parrish doesn't tear them up while doing so.  Sean Smith will need to rebound from a poor offseason.  The Bills will be without Shawn Nelson while he serves a four game suspension.  Edge: Miami

Miami's Special Teams vs Buffalo's Special Teams: Both teams have very good kickers and punters, but Miami is still looking for a solid return man to replace Ted Ginn.  Buffalo has plenty of players to choose from who are threats in the return game.  Edge: Buffalo

Final Prediction:  Both teams will make a few mistakes as they get the season started.  Miami's defense will bend, but not break.  The offensive line may not play spectacular, but they'll take advantage of Buffalo's poor front seven and they will control the ball and the clock.  Miami 20, Buffalo 13

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