Scouting the Opponent: Miami Dolphins
Dolphins Remain Hot and Are in the Thick of the Playoff Race
Dolphins Remain Hot and Are in the Thick of the Playoff Race
Last Meeting
The Jets (4-9) and Dolphins (8-5) squared off in Week 9 in Hard Rock Stadium as Miami prevailed 27-23.
Heat Wave
The Dolphins have won six of their last seven with their most recent win coming against the Cardinals in Week 14. Miami emerged victorious 26-23 in dramatic fashion — K Andrew Franks converted on a 21-yard field goal as time expired, keeping Miami firmly in the playoff hunt.
Postseason Hopes
If the season ended today, the Dolphins would hold the No. 6 seed in the AFC. The Jets have an opportunity to play spoiler on Saturday.
Déjà Vu
In Miami’s recent win over the Cardinals, QB Ryan Tannehill suffered a sprained ACL/MCL and he will not play against the Jets.
Nine-year veteran QB Matt Moore’s first start with the Dolphins came against the Green & White in a primetime matchup at MetLife Stadium. Moore completed 16 of his 34 pass attempts for 204 yards with zero touchdowns and two interceptions in a 24-6 Jets’ win. CB Darrelle Revis collected both of the thefts and he returned one for 100 yards and a score.
Moore passed for 2,497 yards, 16 touchdowns and nine interceptions in 12 starts that 2011 campaign, finishing with a 6-6 record. The 6’3”, 225-pounder's last start also came against the Jets as he led the Dolphins to a 19-17 victory on New Year’s Day in South Florida.
So We Meet Again
In Week 9, Jay Ajayi was the hottest player in the NFL coming off back-to-back 200-yard rushing games. While he failed to make NFL history with three consecutive 200-plus performances, Ajayi was effective on the ground, rushing for 111 yards and one touchdown against the Jets. Since, he’s averaging 62 yards on 17 carries for an average of 3.6 yards.
Pouncing on Opportunities
The Dolphins will be without C Mike Pouncey (hip), who is one of the most versatile and athletic centers in the league. Following their last meeting, Jets DL Leonard Williams complimented Pouncey’s athleticism, saying it’s parallel to that of a defensive lineman. The Florida product is part of an offensive line that ranks No. 12 on the ground. Anthony Steen will most likely make his eighth start of the season serving as Pouncey's replacement.
Bend But Don’t Break
In the Dolphins’ past four victories, they’ve won by no more than seven points and have surrendered an average of 24 points and 375 yards per game.
