Monday Night Football Preview: Dolphins Look to Keep Rolling Against Banged-Up Steelers
The Miami Dolphins are heading into a chilly Monday night showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers riding a four-game winning streak and gaining momentum at just the right time. At 6-7, Miami’s playoff hopes are still alive, but they’ll need to keep stacking wins - and tonight's matchup at Acrisure Stadium is about as must-win as it gets.
Achane’s Return Could Be a Game-Changer
There was some concern earlier in the week about De’Von Achane’s status after he exited last Sunday’s game with a rib injury. But the rookie running back is officially good to go, and that’s huge news for a Dolphins offense that’s leaned heavily on its ground game during this recent hot streak. Achane brings speed, explosiveness, and the kind of shiftiness that can flip a game in one snap - and in the freezing Pittsburgh weather, that run game might be Miami’s best weapon.
Trenches Tell the Story
Much of Miami’s recent success can be traced back to the offensive line. After years of being a liability, this unit is finally starting to look like a strength.
The Dolphins invested heavily in upgrading the line during the offseason, and now those moves are paying off. Protection has improved, lanes are opening up in the run game, and Tua Tagovailoa is getting the time he needs to operate.
That’ll be critical against a Steelers front that, while banged up, still features playmakers capable of wrecking drives if they’re not accounted for.
A Familiar Face Returns to Pittsburgh
There’s an emotional layer to this one, too. Dolphins safety Minkah Fitzpatrick returns to Pittsburgh, where he began his NFL career before being traded to Miami.
Defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver didn’t mince words when asked what a win would mean for Fitzpatrick - it would mean a lot. Expect the veteran to be flying around the field with a little extra juice tonight.
Rasul Douglas: The Late Addition Making a Big Impact
Another name to watch in Miami’s secondary is Rasul Douglas. Signed late in the offseason, Douglas has been one of the quiet success stories of this Dolphins defense.
He spent most of the summer as a free agent, enjoying time with his son, but once he got the call from Miami, he’s made the most of it. He’s brought veteran savvy and a steady presence to a secondary that’s been tested throughout the year.
Steelers Limping In
Pittsburgh enters the game at 7-6 but is dealing with a laundry list of injuries. They’ve been gritty all season - that’s a Mike Tomlin trademark - but they’re clearly not at full strength. The Dolphins will need to take advantage, especially in the second half, where depth and conditioning could tilt the game.
What’s at Stake
This isn’t just another Monday night game. For Miami, it’s a playoff lifeline.
With other AFC contenders picking up wins on Sunday, the Dolphins can’t afford to fall further behind in the wild card race. A win tonight doesn’t just keep them in the mix - it could be the spark that carries them into the final two weeks with real momentum.
**Kickoff is set for 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN.
Bundle up - it’s going to be a cold one in Pittsburgh, but the Dolphins are hoping to stay hot. **