Dolphins Look to Extend Win Streak, But Jets Rivalry Brings Familiar Trap Game Vibes
The Miami Dolphins are rolling into Week 14 with some much-needed momentum. Winners of three straight, they’ve clawed their way to 5-7 and are eyeing a fourth consecutive victory as they head to MetLife Stadium to face the New York Jets.
On paper, this is a game Miami should win. But if last week’s narrow escape against the Saints taught us anything, it’s that no matchup-especially within the division-is ever a layup.
Let’s break down where things stand heading into this AFC East clash and what to watch for as the Dolphins look to keep their playoff hopes alive and sweep their long-time rivals.
Quarterback Matchup: Zach Wilson Returns to Familiar Turf
This game carries a bit of extra juice for Dolphins quarterback Zach Wilson. He’s heading back to the stadium where his NFL journey began, and where it eventually went sideways. After a rollercoaster tenure with the Jets, Wilson now finds himself on the other side of the rivalry, looking to prove he’s grown from the hard lessons learned in New York.
Wilson’s play has been steady during Miami’s win streak-not flashy, but efficient. He’s avoided the back-breaking mistakes that plagued him early in his career, and that’s allowed the Dolphins to stay on schedule offensively. Sunday offers a chance for a bit of redemption, but more importantly, it’s an opportunity to keep this offense trending in the right direction.
Offensive Line: Chemistry Built Over Dinner, Showing Up on the Field
One of the more underrated stories behind Miami’s recent surge? The offensive line. And it turns out, the secret sauce might be found off the field.
Every Thursday night, the Dolphins’ O-line gathers for dinner at a local South Florida spot. It’s become a tradition-and more importantly, a bonding ritual-that’s helped transform this group into a more cohesive unit. That chemistry is translating into better protection and improved run blocking, both of which have been critical during the win streak.
They’ll be tested again this week by a Jets front that, while inconsistent, still has the talent to disrupt the pocket. If Miami’s line can hold up, it’ll give Wilson the time he needs to operate and open up lanes for the ground game.
Secondary Concerns: Rookie Growing Pains for Dante Trader Jr.
The Dolphins’ secondary has had its share of ups and downs this season, and one name to keep an eye on is rookie Dante Trader Jr. The fifth-round pick saw limited action against the Saints, and his role moving forward remains a bit of a question mark.
It’s not unusual for a rookie DB to hit a midseason wall, especially in a complex defense. The challenge now is figuring out how to get the most out of Trader’s athleticism without putting too much on his plate. With injuries already testing the depth of this unit, Miami needs its young players to grow up fast.
Turf Talk: Dolphins Prefer Grass, But MetLife Awaits
There’s no love lost between NFL players and artificial turf, and the Dolphins are no exception. Safety Ashtyn Davis, who spent time with the Jets, knows firsthand the risks that come with playing at MetLife Stadium. He was on the field back in 2023 when Jaelan Phillips and Jevon Holland both suffered serious injuries on the turf.
Miami, like many teams, prefers the natural grass they’re used to at home. But Sunday’s game will be played on the same MetLife surface that’s been a point of contention around the league. It’s not something that’ll show up on the stat sheet, but it’s absolutely on the minds of players and coaches heading into the weekend.
Coaching Corner: Mike McDaniel Keeps the Focus Tight
Head coach Mike McDaniel met with reporters for the final time before heading north, and his message was clear: don’t overlook the Jets.
McDaniel knows better than to take any division opponent lightly, especially on the road. The Dolphins have the better record, the hotter hand, and arguably the more complete roster-but none of that matters if they don’t bring the same level of focus and execution that’s fueled their recent success.
The Bottom Line
The Dolphins have a golden opportunity to keep their win streak alive and inch closer to .500. But this is the kind of game that can trip up a team if they get too comfortable. The Jets may be 3-9, but in a rivalry like this, records don’t always tell the full story.
If Miami can protect Wilson, keep the run game going, and avoid the mental lapses that nearly cost them last week, they should leave MetLife with a win. But they’ll need to earn it. Division games have a way of humbling teams that don’t come prepared-and the Dolphins can’t afford to let their foot off the gas now.