Dolphins vs. Washington picks and predictions: Miami expected to roll on the road

Washington hosts the Miami Dolphins on Sunday to open the NFL regular season for both teams, and this one might not be pretty for fans of the team from the nation’s capital.

Washington is trying to improve in its second year under head coach Jay Gruden, but all signs point to moving backward instead of forward after another tumultuous offseason. Robert Griffin III, who is still waiting for concussion clearance, doesn't seem to be answer to the team’s prayers at quarterback. Gruden has turned over the keys to the offense to Kirk Cousins, who has guys like DeSean Jackson, Pierre Garcon and running back Alfred Morris at his disposal.

The Dolphins feel this is the year that they make the playoffs after seven seasons of failing to do so. Ryan Tannehill appears to have full command and capable skills at quarterback, and along with a new contract, the Miami front office gave him a few more targets and talent on offense this offseason. If Lamar Miller can have a little success running the ball, the passing lanes should open up for Tannehill.

Defensively, Miami has several big pass rushing threats, including free agent addition Ndamukong Suh and Cameron Wake. The Miami offense also looks to have an advantage in throwing against a suspect Washington secondary that includes long in the tooth veteran DeAngelo Hall.

The Dolphins are 3- to 4-point favorites in various sports books, but could easily win by double digits. The experts seem to hold the same belief -- it's a clean sweep at both ESPN and CBS Sports, where all the panel members are picking the road team.