Tannehill's accuracy has been fleeting, as has his ability to stretch the field. Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports
Miami Dolphins (1-2) at Oakland Raiders (0-3)
Sunday, 1:00 p.m. ET, at Wembley Stadium, London — TV: CBS
*TV announcers: Ian Eagle, Dan Fouts, Jenny Dell
*Keys to the game: Dolphins coach Joe Philbin let QB Ryan Tannehill twist in the wind for a few days before announcing the third-year quarterback would get at least one more start despite struggles with accuracy and pocket presence early this season. Miami has run the ball well and the Raiders gave up 400 rushing yards through two games before buckling down against New England last week. Tannehill is averaging a league-low 5.03 yards per attempt, so he’ll have to complete a few vertical shots to keep Oakland’s safeties from playing downhill in support of the banged up linebacking corps.
The Raiders traveled to London on Monday, a full four days earlier than Miami, and have had time to adjust to the time change. QB Derek Carr continues to show steady development, although he will be without injured WR Rod Streater. Oakland wants to provide Carr with a power ground game, but RB Darren McFadden is averaging just 3.3 yards per carry, leaving the rookie quarterback in too many long passing situations.
*Matchup to watch — Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill vs. Raiders S Usama Young: Tannehill’s accuracy has been fleeting, as has his ability to stretch the field. Young, a former cornerback, steps in for injured starter Tyvon Branch. While he doesn’t bring the same physical presence as Branch, Young has good instincts and could cash in on any mistakes by Tannehill downfield.
*Player spotlight — Dolphins TE Charles Clay: A key, and versatile playmaker, in 2013, Clay has largely been a nonfactor with 12 catches for 79 yards and no scores through three games. Offensive coordinator Bill Lazor has said he wants to use Clay more, and he has the ability to be the high-percentage option the Dolphins’ passing game is lacking.
*Fast facts: The Raiders will travel an NFL-high 36,078 miles this season, with Miami No. 2 at 24,740. Their combined miles represent 12.7 percent of the league total among all 32 teams. … This will mark Oakland’s first game played outside of the United States.
WHO WILL WIN AND WHY
Putting an ocean between them and their increasingly vocal critics at home for a few days, embattled coaches Joe Philbin and Dennis Allen face critical opportunities to generate positive momentum before returning stateside.
*Our pick: Dolphins 20-19
