Lions Face Winless-Streak Dolphins Sunday
Detroit looks to extend a three-game winning streak against a Miami team still searching for momentum under a new coaching staff.
Updated on Nov. 5, 2026 in Football
The Detroit Lions prepare to face the Miami Dolphins, who earned their first win of the season two weeks ago against the New York Jets. Jack Campbell suffered an injury ahead of the matchup.
Why it matters
Detroit has won back-to-back divisional matchups and enters with momentum, while Miami is in a rebuilding stretch with a new head coach, quarterback and remade roster. The result will shape how each team's season is judged at the midpoint.
Jacob Rodriguez, a second-round pick from April, has recorded 69 tackles, including three for loss, across seven starts this season. Miami has lost four straight one-win games, and the severity of Campbell's injury has not been detailed.
The players
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are an NFL franchise based in the Detroit area that competes in the NFC North division.
Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins are an NFL franchise based in Miami, Florida that competes in the AFC East division.
Jeff Hafley
Jeff Hafley is in his first season as Miami's head coach and previously served as defensive coordinator for the Green Bay Packers.
The details
Miami's defense, anchored by Zach Sieler, plays hard and hustles, while its offense runs a versatile scheme without top running back De'Von Achane. Ollie Gordon has taken over as the lead back, and the Dolphins are expected to be fired up for the game.
Timeline
Two weeks before this game: Miami earned its first win of the season against the New York Jets.
April: Jacob Rodriguez was drafted in the second round.
This week: Lions prepare for the Dolphins after Jack Campbell's injury.
Season Trajectory
With the NFL's 17-game schedule, Miami's 1-win start leaves little margin for error as the Dolphins try to reach the postseason. Detroit's three-game streak keeps it positioned among the NFC North contenders.
A Lions win would give Detroit a four-game winning streak and sharpen its position in the NFC North race. Fantasy managers should monitor Jack Campbell's status and Ollie Gordon's workload as Miami shifts its backfield.
The takeaway
Early-season results often reveal which teams can adjust to injuries and new systems, and both Detroit and Miami face that test on Sunday. Watch the injury report closely before kickoff.
Further reading
Keep up with the latest in Detroit Football coverage for the Lions' push through the season.
