Dolphins Ride Leadership and Resilience into Crucial Stretch Run
Fresh off a hard-fought 21-17 win over the New Orleans Saints, the Miami Dolphins are turning the page quickly as they prep for a pivotal matchup against the New York Jets. But before shifting focus entirely to the road ahead, head coach Mike McDaniel took time to reflect on a performance that was as much about grit and leadership as it was about Xs and Os.
Alec Ingold’s Status: Day-to-Day, But Trending Positive
Fullback Alec Ingold, who returned to action against the Saints after dealing with a stinger, appears to have avoided any serious setback. McDaniel labeled him "day-to-day," a sign that Ingold could be available moving forward depending on how he responds during the practice week. Ingold’s return brought a physical edge to the backfield, and his availability will be something to monitor, especially as Miami continues to lean into a run-first identity.
Austin Jackson Brings the Edge - Literally and Figuratively
Right tackle Austin Jackson made his return from injured reserve, and to hear McDaniel tell it, he didn’t just step back into the lineup - he set the tone.
“He had a mindset of violence that we were counting on,” McDaniel said, praising Jackson’s physicality and presence at the point of attack. The Dolphins have leaned heavily on a run game built around the explosiveness of De’Von Achane, and Jackson’s ability to anchor the edge is a key part of that formula. Not only did he meet expectations, McDaniel admitted Jackson may have exceeded them.
That’s a big deal for a Dolphins offense that’s evolving down the stretch, shifting from a high-flying aerial show to a more balanced, punishing ground attack.
No Setbacks for Darren Waller or Jackson
Tight end Darren Waller also made his return to action against New Orleans, and like Jackson, he came out of the game clean. “No news is good news,” McDaniel said, which is the kind of update coaches love to give in December. With Waller healthy and reintegrating into the offense, Miami gains another versatile weapon who can stretch the field or work the seams - a valuable asset as the team eyes a postseason push.
Tyrel Dodson Steps Up When It Matters Most
Perhaps the most impressive moment of the night didn’t come from a highlight reel play, but from what happened just before one.
Late in the game, with the Dolphins’ communication system faltering, linebacker Tyrel Dodson was forced to take full command of the defense. On the Saints’ two-point conversion attempt, Dodson had to make the call himself - and it led to a game-changing interception by Minkah Fitzpatrick, who returned it for two points.
McDaniel didn’t hold back in his praise. He told Dodson it reminded him of how Fred Warner - widely regarded as one of the smartest linebackers in football - prepares every week.
“That’s what it felt like,” McDaniel said. “The team’s counting on him to be the most prepared player. And he showed that he was.”
Dodson didn’t just make one clutch call - McDaniel noted several moments where the linebacker’s on-field leadership and decision-making were critical to Miami’s defensive success. In his words, Dodson is “the quarterback of the defense.” And in a game where communication broke down, that leadership couldn’t have been more vital.
Halftime Strategy: Playing the Clock, Not Just the Scoreboard
One moment that had fans scratching their heads came at the end of the first half, when the Dolphins opted to play it safe and settle for a field goal rather than push aggressively for a touchdown. McDaniel explained the decision was rooted in situational awareness - the Saints were set to receive the second-half kickoff, and the risk-reward calculus didn’t warrant taking unnecessary chances.
It was a conservative call, but one that underscores the strategic mindset McDaniel brings to the sideline. In a close game, every possession matters - and sometimes, the smart play is the one that doesn’t make the highlight reel.
Tua’s Numbers Down, But McDaniel Stays Focused on the Big Picture
Tua Tagovailoa’s stat line against the Saints won’t light up any fantasy scoreboards - just 12 completions on the night - but McDaniel made it clear he’s not losing sleep over the numbers.
For him, it’s about leadership and execution in key moments.
“His job is to lead us to victory,” McDaniel said. “If 300 yards passing is necessary for that, that’s what we’re going to have to expect.”
That’s a telling quote. It’s not about forcing production for the sake of it - it’s about doing what the game demands.
And right now, with the Dolphins leaning into a more physical, run-oriented identity, Tua’s role may shift week to week. What matters is whether he can deliver when the moment calls for it.
Blocking Out the Noise
As the playoff picture starts to take shape, talk of “in the hunt” graphics and postseason scenarios is everywhere. But McDaniel isn’t letting that chatter seep into the locker room.
In fact, he warned players to tune it out entirely.
“If relatives bring up any game beyond the Jets game,” McDaniel joked, “put some headphones on.”
It’s classic coach-speak with a personal twist - a reminder that the Dolphins are focused on what’s directly in front of them. And with the Jets looming, that focus is exactly where it needs to be.
Bottom Line: The Dolphins aren’t just winning games - they’re growing into a team that can win in different ways. Whether it’s a linebacker stepping up in a communication breakdown, a tackle setting the tone in the trenches, or a quarterback adjusting to a new offensive rhythm, this team is showing the kind of adaptability that matters in December. The road to the playoffs is never easy, but Miami looks like a team that’s learning how to navigate it - one gritty win at a time.