The Miami Dolphins will begin the preseason with a home game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Thursday.

Miami's starters are expected to play one series in this game, with the rest of the roster playing out the remainder of the contest. Ryan Tannehill will likely make his return to the field and start the game for the Dolphins. Tannehill has not been in a game since December 11, 2016, after suffering a season-ending injury during last year's training camp. Miami turned to Jay Cutler following that injury and the veteran did not re-sign in the off-season.

With Tannehill only seeing limited action, there where should be plenty of opportunities for both David Fales and Brock Osweiler. The two quarterbacks were both listed as Tannehill's primary backup in Miami's initial depth chart. A solid game against Tampa Bay to begin the preseason, could end up being a deciding factor in that battle.

Raekwon McMillan will have another chance to see some preseason action in this one. McMillan suffered a season-ending ACL injury on the opening kickoff of last year's first exhibition game. McMillan is entering his second year with the Dolphins and is listed as Miami's primary middle linebacker on the initial depth chart.

Mike Gesicki is a name to watch in this game, as the tight end will look to make the most of any opportunity. Gesicki received some praise for his work during training camp, but he was listed fifth on the depth chart earlier this week. Gesicki could have a chance to move up in those rankings in this one.

Miami's kicking competition is between Jason Sanders and Greg Joseph, with Sanders having a leg up at this time. Sanders was drafted by Miami in the seventh round in the 2018 NFL draft, while Joseph went undrafted. Sanders enters the game as Miami's starter on the depth chart and both kickers could see some action in this game.

Thursday's game is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m.