The Miami Dolphins continue to play competitive football, despite posting a 1-6 record through eight weeks thus far. Their last five games have been decided by one score or less, pointing to clear growth.

Now, the Dolphins will face the NFL's top offense in the Detroit Lions, who will pose a big threat. 

Miami will need to ensure they play mistake-free football to have a chance to pull off the upset. Here are four bold predictions for the game.

Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis has yet to reach 250 passing yards, despite playing some strong football over the last few weeks. He continues to get comfortable with his receivers, and the return of Caleb Douglas has paid dividends.

Miami needs to capitalize on the weaker Lions secondary, and Willis will have more opportunities to air the football out now that Kadyn Proctor is back. He will get that chance and connect on more deep shots.

Willis will end the day with over 250 passing yards and two passing touchdowns.

Miami has one of the worst pass rush units in the league, but they are starting to hit their stride.

After having no sacks for multiple games, the Dolphins defense has brought in five over the last two games. Three of these occurred against the New England Patriots.

Getting after Lions quarterback Jared Goff will be one sure way that Miami can swing the momentum in their favor. Chop Robinson and company will get after Goff and cause some chaos.

Zane Gonzalez went 2-for-3 in Week 8, which was not necessarily the reason that the Dolphins lost. Gonzalez will likely be asked to take on a bigger role against the Lions.

Kicking matters a great deal, and Gonzalez will be perfect on the day. He may even kick the game-winning field goal if the Dolphins play up to the standard they have been grinding out thus far this season.

Miami has been close to multiple victories over the last few weeks, and against quality opponents. The Lions are a strong opponent, but they might come into the game with a little more confidence than they should. 

The Dolphins will overwhelm Detroit with the pass rush, and the offense will be firing on all cylinders to give Miami their second win of the 2026 season.