Monday night features the surging Los Angeles Rams hosting the Miami Dolphins. The healthy return of wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua boosted the Rams amid a three-game winning streak. On the flip side, back-to-back losses on last-second field goals have Miami desperate for a win. This primetime matchup sees Los Angeles as a small home favorite. The spread has narrowed since opening around a field goal.
Firmly in the NFC playoff picture, thanks to their recent surge, the Rams offense took off with the return of Kupp and Nacua. Quarterback Matthew Stafford looks comfortable with his two top targets back in the fold. With Tutu Atwell and Demarcus Robinson also capable of damage, the Rams have one of the league's most dangerous receiving corps.
The receivers are a luxury Los Angeles needs to lean on, thanks to its inconsistent running game. Nearly last in rushing yards per play (31st), the Rams are winning even with running back Kyren Williams struggling to find lanes.
A solid Miami defense is particularly adept at defending the pass (No. 4 passing yards per game). But the Dolphins are second to last in the NFL in sacks and forced turnovers, often lacking big plays to get off the field.
Tua Tagovailoa's healthy return has uplifted Miami's struggling passing game. Star receiver Tyreek Hill played his best game since Week 1 during Week 9's close loss in Buffalo, but is questionable for Monday night with a wrist injury. Unlocking receiving counterpart Jaylen Waddle is the next step. Waddle hasn't had more than 46 receiving yards in a game since Week 1.
Getting Hill (if he's in) and Waddle the ball against a Los Angeles defense that ranks 30th in passing yards per play will be a huge key for the Dolphins. Promising results from running back De'Von Achane in recent weeks give Miami hope it can regain last season's balanced offense.
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