Why Raiders Facing Pressure in Week 1 Against Dolphins

Although the Raiders are viewed, for the most part, as a rebuilding team, the front office’s moves this offseason indicate that it believes it has the foundational pieces to contend for a playoff spot. Whether you align with that thought process or not, Las Vegas is in a much better spot compared to previous seasons.

Additionally, the Dolphins are already looking forward to next offseason, with the 2027 NFL Draft circled on their calendars. Obviously, the players aren't thinking that way, but they can only do so much if they are thoroughly outmatched across the board. If the Raiders want to prove that they are more than just a middling team, winning this game is a must.

Schedule Quickly Turns Daunting

This ties into the last point, but Las Vegas opening up its season against the Dolphins is a major blessing. However, after this week, the opposition ramps up immediately. In the ensuing six weeks, the Raiders face, in order, the Chargers, Saints, Chiefs, Patriots, Bills, and Rams.

I'm not sure that Las Vegas wins more than one game during that span. Building confidence with a win in the season opener will be monumental. The Raiders' two best chances of winning during that stretch would be against New Orleans and New England.

Miami Is Tanking for the No. 1 Pick

This also ties into the first point, but the Dolphins have made it clear that they are playing for the future based on what they've done this offseason. While the Raiders have made proactive moves to build a competitive roster, Miami seems to have acknowledged that it's not in a position to compete.

That's because the Dolphins have one of the worst contracts in the league on their books with Tua Tagovailoa, who is no longer on the team after signing a four-year, $212.4 million contract extension in 2024. Also, Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, Bradley Chubb, and Jalen Ramsey were moved this offseason, and they make up some of the biggest contracts on Miami's books, and they aren't on the roster. All in all, the Raiders have no excuse to lose this game on Sunday.