Dolphins Game Preview: Week Nine vs. Raiders

The Miami Dolphins will try to get back into the win column when they host the Oakland Raiders on Sunday.

Miami traded running back Jay Ajayi away earlier this week and will have a new look in this nationally televised contest. Even though the Dolphins are 4-3, their winning record could be a little deceiving. Miami has struggled to put points on the board all season long and was dominated in last week's loss to the Baltimore Ravens.

Ajayi had failed to match his performance from the 2016 season and showed no signs of turning that around. With Ajayi out of town, Miami will turn to both Kenyan Drake and Damien Williams. Drake is likely to see more plays, but Williams is expected to have his chance to shine as well. The duo will be given every chance to kick-start Miami's offense.

With 13.1 points per game, Miami has the worst offense in the National Football League. Jay Cutler's return to the league has been sub-par and the quarterback missed last week's contest. Cutler will be back behind center for this one and questions about his job status should come to an end. In his first start of the season, Matt Moore looked over-matched against the Ravens.

Cutler will have one of his main targets on the field as well, with DeVante Parker returning from an ankle injury. Parker has been out of action since the fifth week of the season, but is fully expected to suit up for this game. The wide receiver is officially listed as questionable, following a full week of practice.

Even though Parker will be on the field, he may still be limited in his use. Jarvis Landry should see some extra passes in his direction and his production will be needed. With a backfield that is a work in progress, Miami's passing game will be critical. Cutler meanwhile is playing while recovering from broken ribs which could have an effect on his production as well.

Being in the national spotlight has been a bad thing for the Dolphins recently, but that could change in this game. Even though Miami's season has been a disappointment, Oakland's campaign has not been strong either. The Raiders are 3-5 and only have picked up one victory on the road. The Dolphins meanwhile are 2-1 at home.