News Summary
The Miami Dolphins will face off against the Indianapolis Colts in the first game of the NFL season at Lucas Oil Stadium. Scheduled for a 10 a.m. start, predictions indicate a close match, with Miami favored to win despite injury concerns. Both teams aim to start their campaigns strong, providing an exciting kickoff to the 2024 NFL season.
Miami, FL — Dolphins and Colts Set to Contest Week 1 in NFL Kickoff
The Miami Dolphins and Indianapolis Colts are scheduled to face off on Sunday, September 7, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana, marking the opening game of the NFL’s 2024 season. The game is set to begin at 10 a.m. Mountain Standard Time and will be broadcast nationwide on CBS, kicking off a new slate of football action for fans across the country.
Predicted Outcomes and Odds
Various predictions suggest a close contest between the two teams. The Arizona Republic forecasts a victory for the Dolphins with a final score of 31-20, indicating a strong offensive showing from Miami. Meanwhile, betting predictions show a narrow margin favoring Indianapolis; the Colts are listed as 1.5-point favorites, with a moneyline of -125, compared to Miami’s +105 odds.
Additional prognostications from different sources suggest varying results:
- Sports Betting Dime predicts a five-point win for Miami.
- Dimers.com forecasts a close game, with the Colts edging out the Dolphins, 24-22.
- Fansided expects a tight contest, projecting a 23-21 victory for Miami.
Game Probabilities and Over/Under
According to ESPN analytics, the probability of each team winning is nearly evenly split: the Colts have a 49.9% chance, while the Dolphins are just slightly behind at 49.7%. The betting line for the total points scored in the game is set at 47, reflecting expectations of a competitive matchup with significant scoring potential.
Injury Reports and Team Readiness
The Dolphins face notable challenges regarding player availability heading into the game. Their injury report indicates a total of 12 players with questionable or limited participation, which could impact team performance.
Key Dolphins Absences
- Two key players — tight end Darren Waller (hip) and cornerback Ethan Bonner (hamstring) — did not participate in practice this week.
- Wide receiver Tyreek Hill (oblique, calf) and running back De’Von Achane (calf) were limited in practices, signaling concerns over their health status.
- Other players listed as limited include safety Ashtyn Davis (calf), offensive tackle Austin Jackson (toe), and wide receiver Dee Eskridge (concussion), among others.
Colts Injury Status
The Indianapolis Colts have reported only one injury concern, with backup running back Tyler Goodson limited due to an elbow injury. The light injury report suggests the Colts are relatively healthy as they prepare for the season opener.
Overall Context
The matchup between the Dolphins and Colts is anticipated to be highly competitive, with both teams aiming to start their seasons strong. The Dolphins enter the game with an aggregate of injury concerns, which could influence team strategies and performance on game day. Conversely, the Colts, with their limited injuries, might have a slight edge, although predictions and betting odds suggest the game will be closely contested.
As the first game of the NFL season, this contest is expected to draw significant attention, setting the tone for both teams’ campaigns and offering fans a glimpse of emerging team dynamics and key player performances.
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Additional Resources
- Sports Illustrated: Dolphins Week 1 Injury Report
- Indianapolis Colts Official: Depth Chart Release
- Arizona Republic: Colts vs Dolphins Predictions
- Indianapolis Colts Official: How to Watch
- Wikipedia: National Football League
Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
