ClutchPoints
Both Miami and Carolina enter Week 5 at identical 1-3 records, desperately seeking momentum in what has been a disappointing start for two franchises with playoff aspirations. The Dolphins showed signs of life with their Monday night victory over the Jets, while the Panthers remain inconsistent despite flashes of potential. With both teams struggling defensively and weather conditions potentially impacting play in Charlotte, this AFC-NFC matchup presents several intriguing storylines that could unfold in unexpected ways.
De’Von Achane has emerged as Miami’s most explosive offensive weapon, leading the team with 246 rushing yards while adding significant contributions in the receiving game. The matchup against Carolina presents a perfect opportunity for a breakout performance, as the Panthers rank 23rd in rushing defense, allowing 129.3 yards per game and five touchdowns on the ground through four games. Even more concerning for Carolina is their overall defensive struggles, ranking 30th in the league by allowing 158 yards per game rushing to opposing teams.
Achane’s versatility makes him particularly dangerous in this matchup. His ability to line up both in the backfield and split wide creates mismatches that Carolina’s defense has struggled to contain against similar players this season. The Panthers’ defense has shown particular vulnerability in the middle of the field, where Achane excels at finding running lanes and creating explosive plays. With Miami’s offensive line providing adequate protection and Tua Tagovailoa’s quick decision-making keeping drives alive, Achane should see plenty of opportunities to accumulate yards both rushing and receiving.
Weather conditions in Charlotte are expected to be cloudy with a chance of light rain, which could favor the ground game over aerial attacks. This environmental factor plays directly into Achane’s strengths and Miami’s game plan of establishing the running game early. Given Carolina’s defensive struggles and Achane’s explosive potential, expect him to record over 100 rushing yards while adding 50+ receiving yards and find the end zone at least twice in what could be a statement performance.
Despite entering his third NFL season, Bryce Young continues to struggle with consistency and production through the air. He’s averaging just 188.3 passing yards per game while completing a modest 60.4 percent of his passes. Young has been held under 200 passing yards in three of his four starts this season, including a particularly concerning 150-yard performance against New England in Week 4. NFL analysts have criticized his lack of “passing juice” and inability to threaten defenses vertically, which presents a significant concern against Miami’s defense.
Live look at Bryce Young’s offensive line. Impossible for any young QB to build confidence throughout a season. pic.twitter.com/U7J2NpG2lw
— DaGridiron (@DaGridiron) September 29, 2025
The Dolphins’ pass defense, while not elite, ranks 20th in the league by allowing 220.8 yards per game through the air. However, their defensive struggles have been more pronounced against the run, where...
