Sun Sentinel staff weight in on Miami’s outlook

Here’s how the South Florida Sun Sentinel thinks the Miami Dolphins will fare in the 2023 season ahead of their Sept. 10 opener at the Los Angeles Chargers, and who our staff is picking to play in the Super Bowl:

Dave Hyde, Sports Columnist

Dolphins prediction: 10-7

The speed of the offense and a Vic Fangio defense should put the Dolphins in the playoffs. The strength of the AFC East and the numerous health concerns on the Dolphins roster mean you’ll have to get to December before seeing if they can make a deep run in the postseason.

Super Bowl prediction: Cincinnati Bengals vs. San Francisco 49ers

Cincinnati has been in the mix the past few years and at some point quarterback Joe Burrow breaks through. Going with San Francisco just because Philadelphia won last year and most champions don’t repeat.

Chris Perkins, Dolphins columnist

Dolphins prediction: 10-7

It’s a tougher schedule than last year partly because the AFC East is tougher. But the Dolphins are a better, more experienced team. If coach Mike McDaniel grows as a second-year coach/play-caller, and they can avoid major injury issues, a playoff berth seems likely.

Super Bowl prediction: Philadelphia Eagles vs. Cincinnati Bengals

I’m going chalk, for the most part. Beyond that, I like dynasties, so I’d usually select Kansas City in this situation. But something tells me the combination of Cincinnati coach Zac Taylor and QB Joe Burrow will get it done this year.