The Dolphins played a nearly perfect game last Sunday against New England. That was in Miami, however.

Sunday night will be a different story: The Dolphins are at Denver, where the Broncos hardly ever lose.

Denver is a 3 1â2-point favorite, and the Broncos should be. They would lead any other division at 4-1, but they’re in the AFC West, where they trail the NFL’s only unbeaten team, Oakland, and are tied with San Diego after beating the Chargers in Denver last Sunday.

One interesting matchup will be the Denver defense, which has surpassed everyone’s expectations, against the Miami offense, in which Ricky Williams has made Jay Fiedler into a far better quarterback than in past seasons.

“It would be amazing the success people could have in whatever profession they’re in if they could deal with things like Jay Fiedler does,” coach Dave Wannstedt said.

The Broncos need the game more, it’s in Denver and it’s on Sunday night, meaning the home crowd gives the Broncos an even bigger edge.

Broncos, 20-13 Green Bay (plus 4 1â2)

at New England

Short week for the Packers. New England shouldn’t be bad enough to lose three straight, and Tom Brady can pick on a bruised secondary.

Patriots, 30-24

Baltimore (plus 6 1â2)

at Indianapolis

Brian Billick might be a genius, but Ray Lewis’ shoulder hurts.

Colts, 27-17

New Orleans (minus 1)

at Washington

Patrick Ramsey played his college ball in New Orleans. More important, the Saints have tape on him, which should lessen his efficiency.

Saints, 27-18

San Francisco (minus 3)

at Seattle (Monday night)

Does Mike Holmgren wish he was on the other side?

Seahawks 24-23

Pittsburgh (minus 6 1â2)

at Cincinnati

As badly as they’ve played, the Steelers could be tied for the division lead if they win.

Steelers, 31-13

Jacksonville (minus 1 1â2)

at Tennessee

Two teams that typify the NFL: They’re in exactly the opposite places they were supposed to be.

Jaguars, 22-20

Cleveland (off) at Tampa Bay

Tim Couch has been cleared to play after a concussion. Only Josh Booty is behind him.

Bucs, 25-2

Carolina (plus 2)

at Dallas

Two straight painful losses for the Panthers. They’re finding their level.

Cowboys, 13-10

Kansas City (plus 3)

at San Diego

The Chiefs can score. Will the Chargers let them?

Chargers, 24-20

Atlanta (off)

at New York Giants

Off the board because Michael Vick probably won’t play. Add that to the Giants’ 11-2 record before bye weeks, and …

Giants, 23-13

Buffalo (minus 7 1â2)

at Houston

The Bills are averaging 33 points a game and allowing 36.

Bills 33-20

Oakland (minus 7) at St. Louis

At one point, this might have been a Super Bowl preview. Even if Charlie Garner doesn’t play …

Raiders, 42-3

Detroit (plus 4) at Minnesota

Can the Lions extend their one-game winning streak?

Vikings, 20-19

Last week: 9-5 (spread), 9-5 (straight up).

Season: 35-38-1 (spread) 44-30 (straight up).