Patriots - Dolphins: Betting Odds, Prediction, and Preview (Monday Night Football)

The Patriots get their season underway tonight in Miami, as New England looks to rebound from a disappointing 2010 that resulted in a postseason loss to their rivals, the New York Jets.

The Dolphins likely feel they under-achieved last season, as well, when they missed the playoffs, and finished with a 7-9 record.

New England added some new and prominent faces. Wide receiver Chad Ochocinco and defensive tackle Albert Haynesworth have joined a squad that would probably view anything less than a Super Bowl championship this season as a disappointment.

Miami's newest face is Reggie Bush. The former Saints' star is expected to be the featured running back after sharing the duties with a number of rushers in New Orleans. On defense, linebacker Cameron Wake is looking to build off last year's 14.5 sacks.

A major issue in this game could be the offensive line of New England. Sebastian Vollmer will be sidelined with a back injury leaving the Patriots with just Matt LIght and rookie Nate Solder as the lone tackles.

Miami will likely get Brandon Marshall involved early and often. The two-time Pro Bowler is probably the Dolphins' main offensive weapon, and Chad Henne will want to test the Patriots' secondary with his big-play threat.

History is on the Patriots' side. New England has won seven straight games on opening weekend, while the Dolphins have lost their past five home openers.

The line: Patriots by 6.5.

Over-Under: 45.5

PREDICTION: Tom Brady will move the ball well, as he usually does, and will find Wesley Welker and Ochocinco in the first half, while the Patriots defense will pressure Henne into taking risky passes in the second half.

PREDICTED SCORE: New England 31, Miami 21