Miami Dolphins vs. New England Patriots: Spread Info, Line and Predictions

The New England Patriots have already won the AFC East, so when they host the Miami Dolphins this weekend, the only thing to play for is a season sweep over a division rival. 

Miami and New England met in their season opener, and it was quite the shootout. Tom Brady threw for a team record 517 yards that day, and while I don't see him doing it again, Brady should have no problem dominating. 

The Dolphins haven't beaten the Patriots since 2009, which should give Miami extra motivation to try to win the game. Seeing as how New England has the worst pass defense in the NFL, the Dolphins definitely have what it takes to compete. 

With that said, let's dig into some specifics for this AFC East showdown. 

When: Saturday, Dec. 24 at 1:00 p.m. ET

Where: Gillette Stadium, Foxboro, MA

Watch: CBS

Spread 

The Patriots are favored at -10, which is a fair line. They shouldn't have much trouble covering, but do expect the Dolphins to put up points.

A few big stops from Miami could force a closer game, but in the end, Brady should prevail to help New England cover. 

Over/Under 

The over/under is set at 48, and it's definitely going to go over. Both teams have weak secondaries, so expect a lot of big plays to occur. 

In their first meeting, Brady connected with Wes Welker for a 99-yard touchdown pass. The chances of that happening again are very slim, but there will be big gains all night long, resulting in a high scoring affair. 

Key Injuries 

Miami

WR Brandon Marshall (knee): Questionable

CB Will Allen (wrist): Probable

TE Anthony Fasano (head): Questionable

New England

WR Deion Branch (groin): Questionable 

S Patrick Chung (foot): Questionable 

WR Julian Edelman (back): Questionable 

RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis (illness): Questionable 

S James Ihedigbo (shoulder): Questionable 

CB Devin McCourty (shoulder): Questionable 

LB Brandon Spikes (knee): Questionable 

RB Shane Vereen (hamstring): Questionable 

WR Wes Welker (knee): Probable 

RB Danny Woodhead (abdomen): Probable 

Fantasy Big Plays 

For the Patriots, Brady, Rob Gronkowski and Welker are your must starts. These three have been the heart and soul for New England's offense, and without either one of them, the team wouldn't be the same, especially Brady. 

Gronkowski will rebound from a poor showing last week. He leads the NFL with 15 touchdown receptions, so teams are starting to scheme against him.

However, the Dolphins pass defense ranks 25th in the NFL, and they'll struggle to limit the production of the "Gronk." 

As for the Dolphins, Matt Moore is a good start for deeper leagues, and if Marshall is healthy enough to play, which he should be, then he should be in the lineup as well.

The two of them have developed great chemistry together since Moore took over as the starter. In addition to those guys, Reggie Bush is also a good start, simply because he continues to play at a high level and is the best option at running back for the Dolphins. 

Keys to Miami Win 

The Dolphins have to find a way to slow down Brady. It's going to be near impossible to shut him down, simply because only a few teams have been able to do that.

There isn't enough talent on the Dolphins defense to stop Brady, but if they can find a way to limit his production, they can hang in this game. 

Moore will also need to have a clutch performance by taking advantage of the worst pass defense in the NFL. A strong showing from him will help the Dolphins stay competitive for all four quarters. 

Keys to New England Win 

All the Patriots have to do is let Brady go to work. He's been on fire this season, mainly because he's had to pick up slack for his defense being atrocious. 

This is a game New England should easily win, which means the Patriots can't fall asleep. Overlooking the Dolphins will come back to haunt the Patriots, so staying focused will be key for New England. 

Prediction 

The Dolphins are going to score, but just like the first time around, the Patriots will rise up and take over the fourth quarter. 

Miami doesn't have the talent to hang with New England the entire game, which is why Brady and company will put the game away in the fourth. 

Patriots 42, Dolphins 28