Dolphins coach Adam Gase said C Mike Pouncey (hip) will start Thursday. Gase said Pouncey was expected to get in some preseason work, so this is not a surprise. With serious questions at guard, Pouncey's health will go a long way to determining how successful Miami's offense can be this season.

Mike Pouncey — The bubble wrap is off! For at least one night. For at least a few series, we can presume. Pouncey wanted a chance to play at least once in the preseason, and Gase will acquiesce. Pouncey has looked really strong in limited practice reps and he believes he’s ready to play at a Pro Bowl level. Gase said he’s going to follow his gut as far as how long to leave Pouncey in the game. It’s a Catch-22. On the one hand, all involved want to see Miami’s first-team offense gain confidence. And Pouncey wants the live-game reps with Cutler, to whom he’ll be snapping. On the other hand, Gase has repeatedly said what he cares most about is having Pouncey for “16-plus” games.