Other potentially competitive matchups include; Houston in week 2, @San Diego in week 4, @NY Giants in week 8, Washington in week 10 (a team on the rise this preseason), and @Dallas in week 12... Overall we count 11 difficult matchups out of 16 games, seven of which are on the road.

The Dolphins only draw a handful of lighter competition including; the customary two tilts with Buffalo, and home to Denver in week 7.

More neutral competition look to be @Cleveland in week 3, and home to Oakland in week 13.

Putting it all together, three of Miami's final four contests are versus what are expected to be top 5 teams; New England, NY Jets, and Philadelphia. If the Dolphins are going to have a shot at the postseason, they'll likely need their running game (currently ailing in preseason) operating on all cylinders at the end of the year... Either that or their defense will need to build upon last season's success and transform into a total wrecking crew-- which is not out of the realm of possibility.

Record Projection:
In 2011 we project the 'Fins to go (9-7), topping the Las Vegas season win total of 7.5 games. We predict the Dolphins' defense to cause fits for a number of opponents. And if their defense steps up big, then there is the potential for upside. Of course injuries could wreak havoc in the other direction. To get FootballLOCKS.com's favorite season win totals picks, sign up here.

Updates:
Revisit this prediction page for any potential preseason upgrades or downgrades to the 2011 Miami Dolphins season record forecast & outlook. This 2011 NFL projection will be "frozen" before the '11 season officially kicks off... Once the regular season begins, you can track in season, rolling NFL win total standings picks here.

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