We have watched practices during training camp, suffered through three exhibition games. We have talked to the Miami Dolphins' coaches and players. We have consulted with NFL experts, read all the preseason hype. We even pulled out the Ouija board (look it up kids).

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Yes, it is that time of the year when The Palm Beach Post sports staff makes its fearless predictions on how we think the Miami Dolphins will do during the 2024 NFL season that starts Thursday night. Of course, the Dolphins do not play until Sunday when they host the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium.

The number "24" will be bandied about a lot these next few months as Miami attempts to snap a 24-year winless playoff drought that extends to the final full year of the Clinton Era. That's Bill ... not Clinton Portis.

Expectations are high - where have you heard that before - and the Dolphins offense should be as entertaining as last season. As with any team, injuries will play a factor and Miami starts off with several players hurting already and not even on the field.

Anyway, as Jackie Gleason always said, and away we go:

Joe Schad, 10-7,1-1 postseason

The Dolphins have a very good chance to start the season 6-1. Of course, there’s also a chance they finish 1-4. Is this team built differently? 11-6 is certainly possible. Winning the AFC East is certainly possible. But we see age, injury, offensive line and defensive line concerns playing a factor here. Breaking a 24-year void without a playoff win is a positive next step.

Hal Habib, 11-6, 1-1 postseason

I wonder if players believe this is the best Dolphins team they've been a part of or if they are  trying to convince themselves of it. Regardless, they could go 17-0 in the regular season and yet the only acceptable proof will be that elusive playoff win. Talent at the skill positions is inarguable. I'm concerned about the offensive and defensive lines, which both took a step back from 2023.

Tom D'Angelo, 10-7, no playoffs

The Dolphins lost several key pieces on defense and while the offense remains explosive, everything went right last year in the injury department. This year it comes down to Dolphins and Jets battling for final playoff spot. J-E-T-S win the tie-breaker. Until Miami proves it can consistently beat winning teams, even if it makes the playoffs, how can anyone expect the Dolphins to win a playoff game?

Nick Pugliese, 9-8, no playoffs

I've always believed there is a window for teams to succeed in the NFL and that window is closing fast for the Dolphins. Many of their best players - Tyreek Hill, Raheem Mostert, Terron Armstead, Jalen Ramsey, Calais Campbell, Jordan Poyer - have serious wear on their tires. They start the season with several key contributors, including edge rusher Bradley Chubb and No. 3 receiver Odell Beckham, not even in uniform. And what are the odds that Tua Tagovailoa plays every game as he did in 2023? Bottom line is Miami joins the ranks of the 2024 NFL disappointments.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Is 2024 Miami Dolphins' year? Watch those high expectations