Odds Say the Miami Dolphins Won't Make the Playoffs

The Miami Dolphins came up short in making the playoffs in 2020, but are a strong bet to make it in 2021. 

DraftKings Sportsbook released odds on every team to make the postseason this coming season. There’s still time before the season starts, but the Dolphins look to be a valuable bet at +130 to make the playoffs.

For starters, the Fins are on an upwards trajectory. Tua Tagovailoa enters as the man under center for the franchise in his second season. A polarizing prospect, the Dolphins appear committed to him and are putting their trust in the former Alabama standout after letting Ryan Fitzpatrick go in free agency and brought in vertical threat Will Fuller in free agency.

Alongside DeVante Parker and Mike Gesicki, Miami has a full cupboard of weapons for Tagovailoa in the passing game. 

Head coach Brian Flores is tasked with solidifying the Dolphins as an elite defensive unit, despite letting key defender Kyle Van Noy leave in free agency. 

Miami’s defense paved the way for the team to contend for a playoff spot in 2020, but there is some regression in order. The team was first in third down defense -- allowing a first on just 31% of opponents third downs -- as well as tops in turnovers. Those stats tend to even out over time, but if the offense makes the necessary steps forward, then the Dolphins should be able to handle a step back from the defensive side of the ball.

After trading out of the No. 3 pick in April 29th’s Draft, the Dolphins moved back up to No. 6 with a host of options to improve their team.

Miami will be looking to take the best player available, and mock drafts don’t seem to have a beat on the organization's thinking with a bevy of different players linked to the pick. Expect the Dolphins to come away with an instant contributor with the pick, no matter the position. 

Lastly, the Dolphins schedule is shaping up to be very manageable. According to last year’s records, Miami is tied for the fifth easiest schedule in 2021. 

The AFC East looks to be trending upwards, but the Dolphins stand to be the second best team in the division with the Jets and Patriots a step behind Miami in their rebuild. The Bills will be the favorite to win the division, but Miami can make some tangible strides forward behind Tagovailoa's development.

I’d play this down to +115, the price is too good on a team continuing on a positive 2020.

Pick: Miami to make the playoffs +130