Miami at New England

This is a longtime AFC East rivalry to open the season. Rebuilding Miami found a good young coach in Brian Flores, finishing last season with an impressive 5-4 finish. That included a 27-24 win at New England as a double-digit dog (after losing 43-0 to them earlier in the year). QB Ryan Fitzpatrick led that comeback (320 yards, 28-of-41 completions), is back, and is a capable veteran. And the ground attack will provide balance with a new one-two punch of Jordan Howard and Matt Breida. The defense plays hard for this coaching staff, which helped them cut down penalties significantly. Over the last 26 years, the Patriots could count on two sensational QBs (Drew Bledsoe and Tom Brady) to lead the offense, but no more, as newcomer Cam Newton and inexperienced Jarrett Stidham are forced to step in. Even with Brady, New England's offense was anemic last season with no running game, no tight end play, a lousy offensive line, and no speedy deep threats. With a new QB learning the offense and no preseason to work out the kinks, look for a close one all the way. Back the visitors, who are on a 7-2 spread run versus the AFC. Play Miami for a Max Play.