Buffalo Bills: 2021 schedule analysis and predictions

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) stiff-arms Pittsburgh Steelers free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen (17) stiff-arms Pittsburgh Steelers free safety Minkah Fitzpatrick. /
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Dean Marlowe #31 of the Buffalo Bills runs the ball after making an interception in the fourth quarter against the Miami Dolphins. (Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images) /

Buffalo Bills: Week 2 & Week 8 vs. Miami Dolphins

The Bills’ two matchups against Miami last season perfectly encapsulated the uncertainty that the Dolphins had within their building in 2020.

Their first meeting came in Week 2, where Josh Allen and former Bills pivot Ryan Fitzpatrick duelled it out. Allen set a career-high of 415 passing yards as the Bills squeaked out a 31-28 win.

When the Dolphins came to Buffalo in Week 17 needing a win to make the playoffs, Tua Tagovailoa got the start, even though Fitzpatrick came in to replace the Alabama rookie in Miami’s season-saving win over Las Vegas the week prior. It proved to be the wrong decision, as Tagovailoa threw three picks in a 56-26 loss. The Dolphins missed the playoffs.

With Fitzpatrick now battling it out in Washington for the starting job, it’s Tagovailoa’s team now. While the jury remains out on what kind of pro he can be, he certainly flashed potential last season. Reuniting him with college teammate Jaylen Waddle is a sign that upper management is investing in his future.

Miami should be better than last year, but while they should contend for a Wild Card spot, they’re not ready to fight for the division crown.

Week 2 (in Miami) Prediction: 28-21 Bills

Week 8 (in Orchard Park) Prediction: 38-21 Bills