It’s only been two days since the NBA tipped off the 2015-16 season but the action has been electrifying already. That action continues this Thursday night as the Atlanta Hawks take on the New York Knicks at Madison Square Garden. But if you’re craving for other sports action, the NFL will also be serving an intriguing matchup between the Miami Dolphins and New England Patriots that will put the cherry on top of your Thursday.
Read on below for a quick breakdown of these two must-see games. And while you’re at it check out our other NFL Week 8 previews: Jets vs. Raiders and Bucs vs. Falcons.
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Atlanta Hawks vs. New York Knicks (8:00 PM ET)
Line: Atlanta Hawks (-3.5) vs. New York Knicks (+3.5); total: 197.0– view all NBA lines
Things didn’t go the Atlanta Hawks’ way on Wednesday night, as they lost their season-opener to the Detroit Pistons, 106-94. They were outplayed for most of the game and were completely dominated by the Pistons in rebounds, 59-40.
One positive takeaway for the Hawks, though, was their sixth-man in Dennis Schroeder, who provided a major boost on offense. He had a team-high of 20 points with three rebounds and four assists to his name. The Hawks will hope to make the necessary adjustments and will aim to notch win No. 1 for their second game of the season against the New York Knicks tonight.
As for the Knicks, they’ll be looking to build on their strong 122-97 triumph over the Milwaukee Bucks last night. Surprisingly, Carmelo Anthony struggled in this one, shooting 4-of-16 for just 11 points. Good thing Derrick Williams and rookie Kristaps Porzingis provided a big boost on offense as both combined for 40 points to lead the way.
Atlanta is 3-2 ATS in its past five road games versus the Knicks. New York, meanwhile, is 2-3 ATS in its last five home games against the Hawks.
Miami Dolphins vs. New England Patriots (8:25 PM ET)
Line: Miami Dolphins (+8) vs. New England Patriots (-8); total; 51.5– view all NFL lines
After starting the season 1-3, the Miami Dolphins have been able to turn things around lately, winning their past two games and now hold a 3-3 win-loss mark. Interim head coach, Dan Campbell deserves a lot of credit for this. He also became the fifth interim head coach of 26 since 2000 to win his first two games.
In their last game, the Dolphins dominated the Texans with a resounding 44-26 victory on Sunday. That win marked the first time that they’ve defeated Houston after eight tries. Ryan Tannehill was huge in this one completing 18 of his 19 passes for 282 yards and four touchdowns across his name. He and the rest of the Dolphins will look to keep this up for their Week 8 clash with the New England Patriots.
Speaking of the Patriots, no one has been able to stop them up to now. They took care of business in Week 7 when they defeated the Jets, 30-23, to remain unbeaten with a 6-0 record. Tom Brady was incredible in this one again, throwing for 355 yards and two scores to help his team overcome a 20-16 deficit in the fourth quarter.
Miami is 6-4 SU and ATS in its last 10 road games. New England, meanwhile, is 9-1 SU and 6-2-2 ATS in its previous 10 home games.
Click here our comprehensive preview of this intriguing clash.
