2021 NFL picks, score predictions for Week 9

Houston Texans (1-7) at Miami Dolphins (1-7)

Sunday, November 7, 1PM ET

Despite their miserable record, the Miami Dolphins haven’t been a complete dumpster fire this season. The same can’t be said for the Houston Texans, who have flailed their way through the season since Tyrod Taylor got hurt in Week 2.

The only glimmer of hope they have left (besides potentially getting the No. 1 overall pick) is that Taylor may return to the lineup soon. However, until that happens, the odds of the Texans racking up another win are slim to none — even against the 1-7 Dolphins.

Since his return from injury, Tua Tagovailoa has given the Miami offense a small shot in the arm. He kept them relatively competitive against a far superior Bills team in Week 8 and should have their offense moving against a Texans defense that is one of the worst in the NFL. Then again, don’t be surprised if they fail to top 28 points, the most they’ve scored in a game this season.

Davis Mills does his best, but Houston lacks weapons and the defense doesn’t make his life any easier. The Texans suffer yet another defeat, further proving their place among the worst clubs in the league right now.

Prediction: Dolphins win 23-18 | Spread:  Dolphins (-7)