Just like that, we are already in Week 9 of the 2026 NFL season, where the 5-2 Detroit Lions will make their way down to South Beach for a matchup with the Miami Dolphins. To break everything down ahead of the inter-conference tilt, my good friend Meko Scott and I are back with a new episode of “Before the Roar.”
Coming off of what a big and emotionally taxing win over the Minnesota Vikings in Week 8, the Lions are hoping to extend their winning streak to four games against a Dolphins team that is
still trying to find their way under first-year coach Jeff Hafley. Despite only having one win on the season, Miami has been competitive in more games than you would think—especially considering the amount of salary cap dollars being paid to players who are no longer with the franchise.
Offensively, things center around the running game in Miami. Quarterback Malik Willis is averaging over six yards per carry, and running back Ollie Gordon is a powerful, efficient runner in offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik’s offense. Can the Lions’ run defense continue to stack solid performances against a team that will no doubt be looking to keep the ball out of the Lions’ hands as much as possible?
On the defensive side of the ball, the Dolphins have some really nice standout players including second-year defensive end Chop Robinson, and rookie linebacker Jacob Rodriguez. However, they are certainly having some struggles in the secondary, which could end up being an issue against the Lions’ high-flying passing attack.
You can watch the entire episode right here, as well as listen wherever you get your podcasts.
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