Dolphins vs Falcons Prediction & Betting Tips for NFL Preseason Week 3 on 8/28/2026

The Atlanta Falcons are set to take on the Miami Dolphins in Week 3 of the 2026 preseason. The game will be held at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, on Friday, August 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM. Fans can catch the action on NFL Network, with the weather forecast predicting a very hot day accompanied by scattered clouds and a light breeze.

Under the guidance of Head Coach Kevin Stefanski, the Falcons have split their preseason games thus far with a 1-1 record. They showed a dominant performance against the Indianapolis Colts with a 34-6 win, bouncing back from a previous 27-7 loss to the Denver Broncos. The Falcons are looking to build momentum and refine their strategies as they face the Dolphins.

The Dolphins, led by Head Coach Jeff Hafley, are still seeking their first win this preseason with an 0-2 record. They experienced tough losses against the New York Giants and Washington Commanders, 26-3 and 20-7 respectively. Playing at their home stadium, the Dolphins aim to find their rhythm and evaluate their roster as they prepare for the upcoming regular season.

Dolphins vs Falcons At a Glance (Preseason Week 3)

• The game is part of the 2026 preseason, occurring in Week 3.
• Atlanta Falcons have a preseason record of 1-1, while Miami Dolphins are 0-2.
• The game is set to take place at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL.
• Weather conditions forecast a very hot day with scattered clouds and a light breeze.
• The Falcons are favored with a moneyline of -212 compared to the Dolphins' +176.
• The point spread sees the Falcons at -4.5 and the Dolphins at +4.5.

The Dolphins Dive: Miami's Preseason Performance and Prospects

Offensive Overview

The Miami Dolphins have struggled offensively in the 2026 preseason, scoring just 10 points, ranking them 23rd in the league. Their offensive yardage is also at the bottom, placing 32nd with an average of 164 yards per game.

The passing game has been particularly weak, with only 161 passing yards over two games, ranking 30th. The rushing attack has fared slightly better, achieving 167 yards and ranking 26th in preseason play.

Defensive Analysis

Defensively, the Dolphins have allowed 46 points in the preseason, standing at 17th in opponent scoring. They've struggled against the run, giving up 307 rushing yards, which ranks them 29th in the league.

Their pass defense is slightly more competent, allowing 417 passing yards and ranking 20th. However, the defense's ability to pressure the quarterback is a strong point, with four sacks placing them 4th in preseason rankings.

Key Players to Watch

Quarterback Malik Willis is a player to keep an eye on, having thrown for 43 yards in his preseason appearance. Running back De'Von Achane remains a focal point for the offense, with 39 rushing yards and one touchdown in a game.

In the receiving corps, Kevin Coleman Jr. has shown potential, accumulating 32 receiving yards on two receptions in his game. On the defensive end, Seth Coleman-Lyles has made his presence felt with 0.5 sacks and four tackles.

Injury Concerns

The Dolphins have several players dealing with injuries, including key figures like Jamaree Salyer and Carter Warren, both placed on injured reserve. Storm Duck and Darrell Baker Jr. are also sidelined, affecting the depth in the secondary.

This list of injuries could impact the Dolphins' performance, especially on the defensive side where depth is crucial for sustained success throughout the season.

Betting Trends

• The Dolphins are 3-0 as favorites in their last three regular-season games.
• They have covered the spread in 5 of their last 6 preseason games following a loss.
• In away games, they've hit the over in 5 of their last 7 regular-season games.
• During the last 8 preseason games, the over has hit 6 times when the Dolphins played away.
• Miami has won 4 of their last 5 home games in the regular season.

The Atlanta Falcons Prepare for Their Preseason Game Against the Dolphins

Quarterback Situation

Jack Strand has been a standout in the preseason, with 262 passing yards and a touchdown across two games. His performance will be pivotal as the Falcons aim to secure a victory against the Dolphins. Cooper Rush, with 148 passing yards, has struggled with interceptions, throwing two in two games.

Tua Tagovailoa, who played in one game, will provide depth at quarterback with his experience. With just 22 passing yards in his single appearance, his contribution will need to increase. The Falcons will rely on Strand's recent form to lead their offensive charge.

Running Backs

The Falcons' running game features Tyler Goodson, who has rushed for 87 yards and a touchdown this preseason. His ability to break through defenses will be critical against the Dolphins. Nathan Carter and Cash Jones add depth, combining for 99 rushing yards and 5 receptions.

Brian Robinson, with limited action this preseason, will look to make an impact if given opportunities. The running back unit's versatility in both rushing and receiving will be a key asset for the Falcons in this game.

Receiving Corps

Drake London, a primary target, is expected to lead the Falcons' receiving efforts. Chris Blair and Vinny Anthony II provide additional threats, combining for 122 receiving yards. Joshua Simon and Nick Muse are reliable options at tight end, contributing 89 yards.

The Falcons' passing attack will need to be dynamic to challenge the Dolphins' defense effectively. Their receiving corps' performance will play a significant role in the offensive game plan.

Defensive Line

Cameron Sample and Chris Williams have been instrumental on the defensive line, each recording a sack in the preseason. DeMarcco Hellams has added stability in the secondary with solid tackling performances. The Falcons' defense will aim to maintain their 16.5 points allowed per game in the preseason.

Limiting the Dolphins' offense will be crucial for the Falcons to control the game's tempo. Their defensive unit's ability to generate pressure and create turnovers will be vital for success.

Team Betting Trends

• The Falcons have a perfect 4-0 record straight up in their last 4 regular-season games in 2025.
• As underdogs, they went 3-0 against the over/under in their last 3 regular-season games in 2025.
• After a win, they are 3-0 straight up in their last 3 regular-season games in 2025.
• As underdogs, they are 6-1 against the spread in their last 7 regular-season games in 2025.
• After a loss, the over/under is 6-1-1 in their last 8 regular-season games in 2025.
• They are 5-1 against the spread in their last 6 away regular-season games in 2025.

Dolphins vs Falcons Prediction: Dolphins +4.5

The Miami Dolphins, currently at 0-2 in the preseason, face the Atlanta Falcons, who hold a 1-1 record. Despite the Dolphins' rough start, their strong home record from last regular season (5-4) could give them an edge. Historically, the Dolphins have performed well at home against the Falcons, winning their last two meetings at Hard Rock Stadium.

Looking at the Falcons, their preseason performance has been decent, ranking 8th in points per game. However, their defense has shown vulnerability, especially against the run, which the Dolphins might exploit. This could be crucial in a game where maintaining possession and controlling the clock will be key.

The Dolphins' trends in the preseason also favor them, covering the spread in five of their last eight games as an underdog. Additionally, they have a 5-1 ATS record after a loss in recent preseason outings, suggesting resilience even when faced with challenging situations.

Considering these factors, picking the Dolphins +4.5 seems the wise choice, given their ability to stay competitive in home games and their recent trends against the spread. A projected score of Dolphins 21 - Falcons 20 aligns with the expectation that the Dolphins will cover the spread.

• Dolphins vs Falcons Prediction: Dolphins +4.5
• Dolphins vs Falcons Score: Dolphins 21 - Falcons 20

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