Thanksgiving night was anything but festive for the Miami Dolphins, as their clash with the Green Bay Packers ended in disappointment. Instead of shaking off past narratives, the Dolphins, led by Tua Tagovailoa, found themselves on the losing end of a fairly lopsided affair.
With a record of 5-7, Miami’s playoff hopes are now teetering on the brink, yet they’re not completely out of the running. To keep postseason dreams alive, the Dolphins not only need to string together wins in their remaining games but also hope for some favorable outcomes in other games.
Let’s take a closer look at what lies ahead for Miami and gauge their chances in the crucial stretch remaining.
Week 14 vs. New York Jets
This matchup isn’t just pivotal for the records; it’s a battle of morale too. Despite not being world-beaters this season, the Dolphins are navigating slightly smoother waters than the Jets, whose ship seems to be taking on water fast.
Aaron Rodgers hasn’t quite been his usual self, and his health status remains a big question mark. While it might not be a showcase of dazzling plays, the Dolphins are positioned to claim this one comfortably.
Prediction: Dolphins win 20-16 (Record: 6-7)
Week 15 @ Houston Texans
Facing the Houston Texans, Miami finds itself up against a team plagued by inconsistency. C.J.
Stroud, who once burst onto the scene as a rookie sensation, is now dealing with the proverbial sophomore slump. Exploiting this slump, Miami is poised to edge out a victory on the road, albeit by a narrow margin.
Prediction: Dolphins win 23-20 (Record: 7-7)
Week 16 vs. San Francisco 49ers
As the curtain starts to close on the regular season, the stakes couldn’t be higher for the San Francisco 49ers. With their season hanging by a thread, this contest promises to be a nail-biter.
Expect a flurry of thrilling offensive exchanges from both sides. However, in the final analysis, the Niners might just squeak by with a win decided by a field goal.
Prediction: 49ers win 30-27 (Record: 7-8)
Week 17 @ Cleveland Browns
Initially, this game might tread a fine line between comfortable and nerve-wracking for Miami fans. The Browns could pose a threat, but the Dolphins’ offense is capable of breaking away as the game progresses. Plus, a couple of forced turnovers from Jameis Winston could turn the tide decisively in Miami’s favor.
Week 18 @ New York Jets
Looking at this final showdown, one wonders if Aaron Rodgers will even be in the picture. If Rodgers isn’t at full strength and with the Jets potentially out of playoff contention, the rationale for him to play might be minimal. Miami could very well end their regular season by making a statement, capping off the year with a commanding win.
Will 9-8 clinch a wild-card spot?
At present, the Denver Broncos are sitting in that coveted final wild-card spot with a 7-5 record. For the Dolphins, securing a playoff berth will require not just their own triumphs, but a little luck and misfortune for their rivals. The road ahead is fraught with challenges, but in the world of sports, anything is possible.