MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — The Miami Dolphins have improved their playoff chances with a hard-fought victory over San Francisco on Sunday. While the outcome was promising, Coach Mike McDaniel is aware that the Dolphins cannot afford to depend solely on this victory for postseason qualification; they must triumph in their next two games to keep their playoff aspirations alive for a third consecutive year.
“I am proud of the effort displayed and proud of the team’s determination as a whole,” McDaniel stated. “This level of play gives you an opportunity to win crucial games in December. However, the reality is that it’s about building momentum and applying that knowledge to upcoming opponents since one win does not suffice in this critical month. It’s about gathering victories.”
Currently, with a record of 7-8, Miami is in contention for a wild-card playoff position along with similarly placed teams such as Indianapolis and Cincinnati. Even if Miami wins both of their remaining games, they will also require assistance from other teams to secure a playoff berth. For instance, should Miami win out, they would need the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers, both 9-6, to lose twice each to enable the Dolphins’ playoff entry.
Defensive tackle Calais Campbell shared his thoughts on the team’s mindset, stating, “We recognize our capabilities when everything aligns properly. Though our opportunities are limited, we have plenty of fight left. If there is any chance, we will contend for it.” The Dolphins demonstrated their determination in the fourth quarter during Sunday’s clash, showcasing strong performance across all areas of the game.
Offense was particularly effective, converting on all three third-down attempts, with running back De’Von Achane amassing a significant portion of his 190 scrimmage yards in the final quarter, including a decisive 50-yard rushing touchdown. Kicker Jason Sanders successfully made a 48-yard field goal just before the two-minute warning, while the defense managed to intercept Brock Purdy during one of the Niners’ final attempts to salvage the game.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa remarked on the game, “This was a necessary performance for us as a collective unit. Across all phases, we executed the complementary football we aimed for. The defense created opportunities for the offense to score points. Even when we struggled offensively, the defense held strong.”
With both of their upcoming games set to be played away from home, the Dolphins must enhance their away game performance; they have struggled on the road, holding a 2-5 record compared to 5-3 at home. McDaniel expressed optimism that the successes at home can be replicated on the road in these crucial matches.
“In instances where you must win to advance, whether to reach the playoffs or during playoff games, it’s essential to have a team equipped to perform in those situations,” McDaniel noted.
What worked effectively during the game was the run game as the Dolphins gained 166 yards, marking the first time since Week 9 that they surpassed 100 rushing yards. Achane was pivotal, contributing 120 yards, highlighted by his 50-yard touchdown run, which was the longest run of the season for Miami.
However, the Dolphins need to address their performance in the red zone as they only converted one out of three chances into touchdowns.
Kicker Jason Sanders saw his stock rise as he went 5 for 5 on field goals, achieving a long of 54 yards, while also converting on both extra points. Sanders has established a streak of 23 consecutive field goals and has made 11 of 13 attempts from over 50 yards; he is one of only two kickers this season to have a field goal in every game.
On the other hand, wide receiver Tyreek Hill saw a dip in his performance, catching just three out of seven targets for 29 yards along with a touchdown. He experienced a missed third-down opportunity early in the game and let a potential touchdown slip later. This season, averaging 55.6 yards per game, he has only achieved two games with over 100 receiving yards, a notable decline from his previous performance.
Injuries also impacted the Dolphins; wide receiver Jaylen Waddle sat out due to a knee injury, while cornerback Kendall Fuller and linebacker Jordyn Brookes sustained injuries during the latter half of the game.
In the records, tight end Jonnu Smith established new single-season Dolphins records with 76 receptions and 802 yards with his six catches for 62 yards in the recent game.
Looking ahead, the Dolphins aim to fortify their playoff chances when they face the Cleveland Browns next Sunday. They understand that victories over the Browns and the New York Jets in the season finale are crucial to their aspirations.
