Week 4 of the 2024 NFL season ends with another 'Monday Night Football' doubleheader, the second in as many weeks. The Tennessee Titans, looking for their first win of the year, head to Hard Rock Stadium to face the Miami Dolphins (7:30 p.m. ET on ESPN), who will be starting Tyler Huntley at quarterback. The line has moved since the announcement of Huntley under center as Miami enters the matchup as 2.5-point favorites, with a total of 37.5.
The first of two Monday Night matchups features the Tennessee Titans and Miami Dolphins, both aiming to rebound after a challenging first month of the season. Neither team has covered the spread so far, leaving more questions than answers as they navigate through their struggles.
The Dolphins will turn to their third quarterback of the season, Tyler Huntley, after Skylar Thompson suffered a rib injury in Week 3 against Seattle. Despite Huntley having limited time to learn Mike McDaniel's system, bettors have shown confidence, shifting the line from Miami as a 1.5-point underdog to a 2.5-point favorite.
Huntley's last start came in a Week 18 loss for the Ravens last season, where he earned a respectable 67.1 PFF passing grade. His performance was hampered by dropped passes, as reflected by a 72% adjusted completion percentage compared to his actual 53.6% rate.
This time, Huntley has a more dynamic supporting cast that features standout playmakers like Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle and De’Von Achane. If he can effectively distribute the ball to these weapons and avoid costly errors, there's potential for success in Miami‘s offense.
Speaking of limiting mistakes, that hasn’t come easily for the Titans. Back-breaking turnovers late in games have become inescapable for Will Levis and this offense. The second-year passer has thrown just two big-time throws compared to five turnover-worthy plays, leading to the league’s third-lowest passing grade (44.0).
However, this week’s matchup presents a good opportunity for both of these passers to put out good tape. The Titans and Dolphins coverage units rank in the bottom eight in team coverage grade, providing favorable conditions for both passers. Last week, the Tennessee defense allowed Packers backup Malik Willis to post a 120.4 passer rating, while Miami‘s defense surrendered 8.5 yards per attempt to Geno Smith, one of the top marks in Week 3.
After a sluggish start to the season, Hopkins bounced back in Week 3, hauling in six receptions on seven targets for 73 yards and a touchdown. Despite seeing only three targets in his first two games, Hopkins still leads the team with 1.84 yards per route run.
After Hopkins' performance, Levis will want to start finding his talented target more consistently. In their time together, Levis has successfully leaned on Hopkins, surpassing this line in seven of their 11 full games together.
Despite boasting some big names in their secondary, the Dolphins have struggled to find consistency in coverage, allowing the sixth-most EPA per passing play so far.
Mike McDaniel's creativity will be crucial as he looks to get the ball to his playmakers without relying on an experienced quarterback. Jet sweeps, end-around leads and reverses all have a home in this Miami offense, so don’t be surprised when McDaniel digs one out of the play sheet.
While Dolphins receivers have only had three rushing attempts this season, two have gone to Jaylen Waddle — including one backward screen pass — allowing him to surpass his rushing line in two games so far.
Huntley's Challenge: Can He Lead the Dolphins to Victory?
Tyler Huntley enters the spotlight in Miami, facing a Titans defense that has struggled mightily against the pass. Despite the Titans' defense surrendering a 120.4 passer rating to Packers backup Malik Willis last week, Huntley's success will hinge on his ability to exploit the Titans' coverage weaknesses and avoid the costly turnovers that have plagued Levis.
Can Levis Find Consistency?
While Levis has shown flashes of brilliance, his inconsistency and penchant for turnovers have kept the Titans from finding their footing. With a favorable matchup against a vulnerable Dolphins secondary, Levis has the opportunity to silence his critics and showcase his potential.
Looking Ahead: A Key Week for Both Teams
This game presents a crucial opportunity for both the Dolphins and the Titans to turn the tide of their seasons. With both offenses looking for a spark and their defenses struggling to contain the opposing passing game, the outcome could hinge on which quarterback can make the most of the available opportunities.
The pressure is on for both Huntley and Levis to prove themselves and lead their respective teams to victory. This Monday Night Football showdown will be a must-watch for those interested in seeing how these two young quarterbacks will fare under the bright lights.
