Dolphins vs. Jets: Bold Predictions for Week 8 Showdown

The Miami Dolphins and the New York Jets meet for the second time in eight weeks at the Meadowlands. Both teams are searching for their fourth win, and at worst, sole possession of second place in the AFC East.

The Jets beat the Dolphins in Week 3 after a couple field-goal gaffes by Dan Carpenter in overtime and Miami coach Joe Philbin icing the kicker at the wrong time.

Miami tries for revenge while the Jets aim to stay afloat in the AFC playoff picture. This one has the look of a physical game that will come down to the fourth quarter.

What's the come? Check out tomorrow's forecast.

New York Will Throw Over 45 Times, Despite Mark Sanchez’s Injury

The Jets will need a adequate passing offense to spread out the Dolphin defense, and they’ll want to dispel the notion that Sanchez’s thumb injury is an issue. 

The Dolphins come in as one of the league’s best rush defenses. They’ll be begging Sanchez to throw; he currently holds an NFL-worst completion percentage.

In Week 3, Sanchez threw over 45 passes in their overtime win against Miami; it doesn’t seem like it will be a different Sunday. They’ll need him to be efficient to have a chance.

Brian Hartline Will Reemerge With a Big Receiving Day

Hartline is on his way to a career year, with 29 receptions and 514 yards in six games. He did not catch a ball against the Rams last week, but Hartline will not be facing the ultra-aggressive Cortland Finnegan on the other side.

Antonio Cromartie plays more of a finesse cover style, which will allow Hartline to get out of his blocks and make plays for the offense.

The Dolphins wideout has been averaging eight targets per game, so the ball will surely be going his way.

Tim Tebow Will Be More Involved

Tebow only played for one offensive snap against Miami in Week 3, but he will be used as a short-yardage option in their second matchup.

The Dolphins' rush-defending prowess has already been noted, so the Jets will need any help they can get to move the chains.

Why not give the ball to their toughest runner on the team?

ESPN’s Mark Schlereth voices a similar opinion on the Jet's use of Tebow:

"

Good thing the Jets traded for Tebow so they could continue not to use him on the goal line.

— mark schlereth (@markschlereth) October 21, 2012"

Whether it’s through playing at Wildcat, halfback or special teams, they’ll be some “Tebow Time” in the Meadowlands.

Dan Carpenter and Nick Folk’s Legs Will Decide the Game

Kickers have the most thankless jobs in the NFL, and these two get called upon a ton in this rivalry. 

Carpenter missed two field goals that could’ve won the game for the Dolphins, while Folk went from goat to hero because Joe Philbin decided to ice him after a blocked kick.

These offenses can covert between the 20s, but have trouble making plays in the red zone. Whoever kicks better will win.

Mike Shiekman is a Breaking News Writer for Bleacher Report. Follow NBA news and commentary from him on Twitter @TheRealShiek