Two 1-3 squads clash in what could become an early tone-setter for both their seasons. The Miami Dolphins, led by Tua Tagovailoa, are adjusting to life without Tyreek Hill, while the Carolina Panthers are showing signs of offensive growth under Bryce Young. Both teams are hungry to prove they’re more than early-season flukes.
Expect the Dolphins to continue leaning on their passing attack, while Carolina will test Miami’s front seven with a new-look backfield. This matchup could quietly turn into a fantasy gem with key players stepping up due to injuries on both sides.
🔥 Start ‘Em: Two 1-3 teams fighting for Relevancy
💪 Tua Tagovailoa (QB, Dolphins)
Tua might be 1-3 in real football, but in fantasy, he’s been rock solid. With 7 TDs and 752 passing yards through four games, he’s shown accuracy and poise even without Hill for stretches. Carolina’s secondary has been generous to opposing QBs, allowing multiple passing TDs in consecutive games. Expect Tua to spread it around effectively.
🧾 Projected Stats: 285 yards, 2 TDs, 1 INT, 18 rushing yards
Tua Tagovailoa replenishing ‘the liquid that your brain sits in’ – Mark Inabinett via SI.com
🔥 Jaylen Waddle (WR, Dolphins)
With Hill sidelined, it’s Waddle time. He’s been averaging 4+ receptions per game, but that number should climb to 6–7 this week as the clear No. 1 target. Miami will scheme quick hitters and deep crossers to get Waddle the ball in space. He’s a WR1 this week with massive volume upside.
🧾 Projected Stats: 7 catches, 91 yards, 1 TD
Darren Waller says scoring two touchdowns against the Jets “feels like being on drugs” via march.com
💪 Darren Waller (TE, Dolphins)
Last week’s sleeper has become a full-blown starter. Waller is carving out a solid role in the Dolphins’ scheme, especially with Hill out. He’s seeing red zone looks and remains a mismatch for linebackers. Expect him to build on last week’s momentum, where he found the end zone.
🧾 Projected Stats: 5 catches, 56 yards, 1 TD
💪 Tet McMillian (WR, Panthers)
One of the most underrated rookie receivers, McMillian has built quick chemistry with Bryce Young. He’s due for a touchdown, and this week sets up perfectly. Miami’s corners can be beaten with precise route running, and McMillian’s usage in the slot could create mismatches all game long.
🧾 Projected Stats: 6 catches, 72 yards, 1 TD
💪 Rico Dowdle (RB, Panthers)
With Chuba Hubbard ruled out, Dowdle becomes a must-add and potential flex play. He should handle a full workload and receive valuable touches near the goal line. Miami’s defense has allowed chunk runs, and Dowdle’s physical running style could wear them down.
🧾 Projected Stats: 78 total yards, 1 TD, 3 receptions
❄️ Sit ‘Em
❄️ De’Von Achane (RB, Dolphins)
Achane’s speed is undeniable, but this isn’t the week to roll him out. Carolina’s run defense is stout and hasn’t given up a rushing TD in two weeks. With only 1 TD on the season, Achane will need to show more consistent involvement before returning to fantasy lineups.
🧾 Projected Stats: 41 total yards, 0 TD
❄️ Tommy Tremble / Ja’Tavion Sanders (TEs, Panthers)
Neither tight end has capitalized on their opportunities. Both continue to split snaps with little fantasy impact. Until one clearly emerges, they remain bench stashes at best.
🧾 Projected Stats: Combined 3 catches, 25 yards
🌙 Sleeper
🌙 Ollie Gordon II (RB, Dolphins)
Word out of Miami is that the Dolphins plan to increase Gordon’s workload to provide more balance and power in the run game. The rookie bruiser could see 8–10 touches and possibly goal-line carries. He’s a deep-league flex option who might carve out a meaningful role moving forward.
🧾 Projected Stats: 42 yards, 1 TD
📊 Start Meter
| Player | Confidence | Matchup Rating |
| Tua Tagovailoa | 🔥🔥🔥🔥 | 8/10 |
| Jaylen Waddle | 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 | 9/10 |
| Darren Waller | 💪💪💪 | 8/10 |
| Tet McMillian | 💪💪 | 7/10 |
| Rico Dowdle | 💪💪💪 | 7.5/10 |
| De’Von Achane | ❄️❄️ | 4/10 |
| Tremble / Sanders | ❄️ | 2/10 |
| Ollie Gordon II | 🌙 | 6/10 |
🏁 Wrap-Up
This matchup between Miami and Carolina has all the makings of a sneaky fantasy thriller. With Hill sidelined, expect Miami to diversify its offense, giving Waddle, Waller, and Tua strong fantasy days. Carolina, meanwhile, continues to evolve under Bryce Young, with McMillian and Dowdle offering intriguing upside.
Both teams are desperate to stay in the playoff conversation, and your fantasy lineup could benefit from the fireworks.
