Dolphins Riding Momentum into Pittsburgh as McDaniel Highlights Growth, Grit, and Ground Game
The Miami Dolphins are heading into a primetime matchup against the Steelers with confidence, momentum, and a clear identity. After a commanding 34-10 win over the Jets, head coach Mike McDaniel took time to reflect on what’s fueling Miami’s recent surge - and why he believes this group is built for more.
Achane’s Status: Trending Toward Playing
One of the biggest questions coming out of the Jets game was the health of explosive rookie running back De’Von Achane, who exited late with a rib injury after taking a hit and landing awkwardly on the ball during a reception.
McDaniel offered a cautiously optimistic update, noting that Achane underwent an MRI and is expected to receive treatment and possibly rest during the week. But the encouraging part? Achane made it clear on the sideline that he was ready to go back in if needed - discomfort and all.
“He was very clear during the game that if I needed him, he could go out there,” McDaniel said. “It felt better today.”
With an extra day to recover ahead of Monday night’s game in Pittsburgh, the Dolphins are hopeful their dynamic back will be ready to roll.
Rookie Development Is Paying Off
McDaniel also took a moment to spotlight the growth of his rookie class, particularly second-round guard Jonah Savaiinaea. The development of young players isn’t just a nice bonus for this Dolphins team - it’s central to their long-term success.
“It will be the reason you win or lose football games,” McDaniel said, underscoring just how critical rookie progression is to the team’s foundation.
That coaching mindset - focused on teaching, growth, and long-term vision - is starting to pay dividends on the field.
Turnovers: More Than Just a Stat
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Takeaways. And McDaniel isn’t shy about calling them what they are: game-changers.
“It’s brought up so often because it’s one of the causations rather than a correlation [to winning],” he said.
In other words, this isn’t just a happy coincidence. Miami’s defense is forcing turnovers at the right time, and the offense is capitalizing. That’s a formula that wins in December - and beyond.
Offensive Line: Quietly Dominant
While the Dolphins’ speed and skill players get most of the headlines, McDaniel made sure to give the offensive line its flowers. Especially left tackle Patrick Paul, who’s stepped into a massive role with veteran Terron Armstead out.
“We’ve really relied upon his growth,” McDaniel said, calling the line’s recent play “a gigantic part” of the team’s success.
And there’s more help potentially on the way. Offensive lineman Andrew Meyer is eligible to return from injured reserve, and his activation window opens this week - a timely boost as the Dolphins head into a physical matchup with Pittsburgh.
A Run-First Identity, By Design
For all the fireworks this offense is capable of, McDaniel emphasized that Miami’s shift to a run-first mentality has been intentional - and it’s working.
“It’s the least-attractive headline you can imagine: Intentional, deliberate work,” he said with a smile.
But don’t let the modest packaging fool you. The Dolphins are pounding the rock with purpose, setting the tone early and keeping defenses honest. That balance has allowed the passing game to thrive without forcing the issue.
Defense: A Connected, Violent Unit
Defensively, Miami has made noticeable strides - and McDaniel credits a combination of discipline, effort, and physicality.
“It’s very similar to the offensive line conversation. It’s not any one thing,” he explained.
The key? Execution in the trenches.
Run fits are tighter. The front seven is shedding blocks with authority.
That effort up front is creating ripple effects in coverage, forcing quarterbacks into tighter windows and contested throws.
“When your front seven is defeating blocks at a high tick,” McDaniel said, “then guys are less predisposed for run-action fakes. Then maybe they get a little more reroute and eligibles don’t get down the field. And then they’re throwing in contested zones.”
It’s all connected - and it’s all working. Miami’s defense is playing with a violent, relentless edge that’s turning red-zone trips into field goals and third-and-shorts into punts.
As the Dolphins prepare to face a physical Steelers team on Monday night, they’re bringing more than just a winning streak. They’ve got a clear identity, a young core that’s growing fast, and a head coach who’s building something sustainable - one deliberate step at a time.