The Washington Commanders and Miami Dolphins meet in what’s being billed as the NFL’s first-ever regular-season game in Spain, hosted at the iconic Santiago Bernabéu Stadium in Madrid.
Both teams enter Week 11 with matching 3–7 records, but their momentum couldn’t be more different.
For Washington, this game represents an opportunity to halt a five-game losing streak and regain some stability. For Miami, it’s an opportunity to build off a solid win and create separation in the standings.
Washington Commanders: Team Form & Issues
A Tough Season Spiraling Downward
The Commanders are coming off a brutal stretch marked by multiple blowout losses, particularly on the defensive side. Their defense sits near the bottom of the league in both points allowed and yards per play, forcing head coach Dan Quinn to take over defensive play-calling duties.
Injury Concerns Stack Up
Washington enters this matchup extremely short-handed:
- QB Jayden Daniels – OUT (elbow)
- WR Terry McLaurin – OUT (quadriceps)
- Additional offensive weapons are also unavailable.
With Daniels sidelined, veteran Marcus Mariota is expected to start — but with such a depleted supporting cast, Washington struggles to generate consistent offense or extend drives.
Miami Dolphins: Trending Up Despite Road Challenges
The Dolphins head into this matchup with renewed confidence following a convincing 30–13 victory over the Buffalo Bills. Their offense is clicking, and they possess the firepower needed to attack Washington’s struggling defense.
However, Miami also battles its own depth and injury concerns. Playing abroad adds another layer of unpredictability, but they appear far more stable than their opponent.
Prediction
Based on current form, injuries, and matchup dynamics:
- Predicted Winner: Miami Dolphins
- Spread Lean: Dolphins -2.5
- Total Points: Slight lean to the Under, unless Miami’s offense explodes.
Washington would need a near-perfect performance to pull off an upset — minimal turnovers, strong Mariota play, and unexpected defensive stops.
Final Thoughts
This historic matchup in Madrid adds global interest to an already intriguing battle between two teams desperate for momentum. The Commanders enter battered and searching for answers, while the Dolphins appear ready to climb out of their early-season slump.
Unless Washington delivers its best game of the year, Miami holds the clear advantage.