MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Recently, Tua Tagovailoa has drawn accolades from his teammates who describe his performance as “commanding” and “lights out.” Since his return from a concussion sustained in Week 8, the quarterback has showcased one of the most impressive stretches of his career, significantly keeping the Miami Dolphins’ playoff aspirations alive.
In a thrilling matchup against Aaron Rodgers and the New York Jets, Tagovailoa threw for 331 yards, achieving two touchdowns, including a game-winning TD in overtime. This victory improved the Dolphins’ record to 6-7, bringing them level with the Indianapolis Colts and putting them only two games behind the Denver Broncos, who stand at 8-5, for the last AFC wild card spot.
Coach Mike McDaniel remarked on Tagovailoa’s growth, stating, “I don’t think two years ago this game occurs. He continues to get better. It’s a lot of work, and all of his efforts are paying off because he possesses immense talent. Not only do his skills shine, but he also has a magnetic personality that lifts those around him.”
Jets interim coach Jeff Ulbrich praised Tagovailoa’s quick decision-making abilities, labeling him as among the NFL’s fastest processors. The quarterback’s teammates echoed similar sentiments, with wide receiver Tyreek Hill commending him as an outstanding leader for the team. “He’s been playing at an extraordinary level,” Hill stated. “It’s vital for everyone to match his intensity and standards.”
Statistically, Tagovailoa has been impressive; Sunday marked his third consecutive game surpassing 300 passing yards. He joins Dan Marino in Dolphins history as the only quarterbacks to achieve three straight games with such yardage. Prior to the Sunday game, Tagovailoa boasted the best completion percentage in the league at 74.5%, extending his run to seven consecutive games with a completion rate above 70%, which is tied for the third-longest streak in NFL history.
Since Week 10 against the Rams, he has completed 184 consecutive passes without an interception, marking the second-longest stretch of his career, and he has thrown a touchdown in 34 of his last 35 outings. During the clutch moment to secure victory on Sunday, he completed six of seven passes for 67 yards, culminating in a 10-yard touchdown pass to tight end Jonnu Smith.
Tagovailoa’s leadership was highlighted by receiver Jaylen Waddle, who noted his ability to keep the team focused and free from penalties, emphasizing the importance of concentration on the details. Waddle remarked, “He really made sure we didn’t kill ourselves with penalties. He wanted everybody to lock in.”
Despite Tagovailoa’s strengths, the Dolphins continue to struggle on third downs, successfully converting only 1 of 9 attempts against the Jets. Over the last three games, they have managed to convert just 9 of 35 opportunities.
On the rise this week were receivers Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill. Hill recorded his first 100-yard receiving game of the season with 115 yards on ten catches, adding a touchdown that marked a score in four of his last five games. Meanwhile, Waddle caught nine passes for 99 yards, achieving a career total of 4,085 yards— the highest number in a player’s first four seasons in Dolphins history.
Conversely, Miami’s secondary faced challenges, giving up 223 combined receiving yards to Garrett Wilson and Davante Adams, along with 339 yards passing from Aaron Rodgers. This was only the second instance this season where the Dolphins’ defense surrendered over 300 passing yards, compounded by instances of miscommunication among the secondary players.
Injury concerns lingered as left tackle Terron Armstead played just five snaps due to a knee issue he has been managing for some time. He appeared frustrated with the situation as he exited the game, making way for rookie Patrick Paul. Additionally, linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. may have exacerbated a previously sustained hamstring ailment.
A significant statistic from the game highlights that Tagovailoa was never hit throughout his 47 pass attempts on Sunday. The Dolphins now face a tough slate ahead, with three of their remaining four games on the road, starting with a matchup against Houston this coming Sunday.
