The Miami Dolphins find themselves in a crucial moment of the season, needing a victory against the New York Jets and some assistance from other teams to secure a playoff spot.
The Dolphins, currently holding an 8-8 record, are set to face the Jets (4-12) in their regular-season finale. A win, coupled with a loss by Denver to Kansas City, is necessary for Miami to reach the postseason. This scenario was improbable a few weeks ago when the Dolphins were struggling with a 2-6 record. Wide receiver Jaylen Waddle reflected on their journey, stating, “We started off 2-6, and look at us now. It’s a long season. We came a long way. The team grew in different ways with people being in and out of the lineup, being banged up. It allowed the team to grow. Playing meaningful football in January, it means a lot. This team really stepped up to the plate, stepped up to the challenge all year. I’m proud of it.”
The Dolphins kept their playoff hopes alive with a decisive 20-3 victory over the Cleveland Browns, a game in which Tyler “Snoop” Huntley stepped in as quarterback due to Tua Tagovailoa’s hip injury. Huntley might have to fill that role again against the Jets as Miami’s hopes hinge on this final game.
Meanwhile, the Chiefs’ performance is equally significant for the Dolphins, who require Denver’s loss to Kansas City. Despite Patrick Mahomes not starting, with Carson Wentz taking his place, Miami remains optimistic. Defensive tackle Zach Sieler humorously noted, “My wife is from Missouri, actually, so I think I have to be a little bit, right?” highlighting their temporary allegiance to the Chiefs.
Aaron Rodgers and the Jets present a formidable challenge. Although the Jets shared Miami’s early season setbacks, they have not managed to recover as effectively. Rodgers, facing potential retirement, aims to end the season on a high note. “You know at some point this group will never get together (again),” he said. “So, just enjoying the last few moments with the guys and we obviously want to put a good product on the field. And Miami is playing for something, so we can kind of send them to vacation as well.”
The Dolphins’ strategy focuses on maintaining concentration on their game against the Jets, resisting the temptation to monitor the Kansas City game. As fullback Alec Ingold stated, “I think you know my answer is going to be I’m going to be worried about who I’ve got to block. What the assignment is, what my alignment is. … I mean, I can’t imagine the amount of regret that would go on the field if you miss an assignment, you miss a block because you’re up there peeking at a scoreboard. That’s not professional, and I don’t think that’s what we should be doing.”
Significant milestones are also at stake. Rodgers, approaching his 500th career touchdown pass, may reach this historic mark, joining a select group of quarterbacks. Conversely, Dolphins running back De’Von Achane aims to be alongside Kareem Hunt with 10 TD runs and receptions within his first two seasons. Wide receiver Tyreek Hill is also close to achieving unique records in his nine-season career, while Adams seeks 1,000 receiving yards for the fifth consecutive season.
Defensively, Tyrel Dodson has been a standout for Miami, stepping up after being claimed from Seattle. Despite his impressive performance, Dodson remains focused on achieving his ultimate goal, expressing determination to be recognized as one of the best in the game.
The Dolphins, with their playoff prospects on the line against the Jets, must rely on both their resolve and favorable outcomes in other NFL matchups. Their journey this season has been marked by resilience and determination, showcasing their ability to rise to challenges.
Source: Nbcmiami
