NFL schedule release: 3 pivotal matchups for Miami Dolphins

Week 8: Miami Dolphins at Buffalo Bills

I couldn’t make this list without including one critical division matchup for the Dolphins. Their biggest test, perhaps of the entire 2021 campaign, comes in Week 8 at the home of the Buffalo Bills. The defending AFC East-Champion Bills essentially ended the Dolphins’ 2020 playoffs last season and payback is on deck.

Miami was dominated in a 56-26 season-ending loss at Highmark Stadium in Week 17 last season. After already clinching a playoff berth, Buffalo decimated an injury-ravaged Miami team and ended their season in utter embarrassment and disappointment. The team hopes to avenge that loss and even the score in Buffalo, as they seek their own AFC East crown.

Buffalo showcased a ton of speed in that game, with players like Isaiah McKenzie, John Brown, and Stefon Diggs all making big plays in the win for the Bills. Things will be more evenly matched in the speed department this year. Miami will look to unleash new free-agent addition Will Fuller and sixth overall pick, Jaylen Waddle. This game could come down to the last minute and both teams will be hungry for a win going into the midway point of the season.