Jets vs. Dolphins: Three Keys to a New York Win in Week 14
The New York Jets (3-9) return to MetLife Stadium this Sunday for a divisional rematch against the Miami Dolphins (5-7). The last time these two teams met, Miami came out on top, 27-21, in Week 4 at Hard Rock Stadium.
But with the Jets coming off a thrilling 27-24 win over the Falcons - capped by a 56-yard Nick Folk game-winner - there's a bit of momentum building in Florham Park. If the Jets want to keep that going and split the season series with Miami, they’ll need to check three major boxes.
1. Clamp Down on the Run
Let’s start with the obvious: the Jets’ run defense has been leaky lately. Yes, it’s shown flashes of improvement since Quinnen Williams was traded to Dallas at the deadline, but the numbers don’t lie - seven rushing touchdowns allowed in the last three games is a red flag. Last week, Atlanta’s Bijan Robinson ran wild for 142 yards and a score, and the Jets didn’t have many answers.
Now comes De’Von Achane, who’s not just fast - he’s flat-out explosive. He’s chasing his fourth straight 100-yard game and has already done damage against this Jets defense, racking up 220 rushing yards and two touchdowns in his last two meetings with them. If New York can’t contain him early, it could be a long afternoon.
The key here isn’t just gap discipline - it’s gang tackling. Achane thrives on turning five-yard runs into 50-yard highlights. The Jets need to bring bodies to the ball and make sure the first hit isn’t the only one.
2. Lean on Breece Hall
When Breece Hall scores, the Jets win - or at least, they have a much better shot. The team is 18-7 when their lead back finds the end zone, and that’s not a coincidence. He’s the engine of this offense, and when he’s rolling, everything else opens up.
Last week, Hall punched in a touchdown and looked like his old self in spurts. Offensive coordinator Tanner Engstrand also got creative, mixing in Tyrod Taylor’s mobility - the veteran QB ran for 44 yards and a score himself. That dual-threat approach helped keep Atlanta off balance, and it should be part of the plan again this week.
Miami’s run defense has been one of the worst in the league, giving up over 137 yards per game. That’s the kind of stat that should have Hall licking his chops.
But it’s not just about handing him the ball - the Jets also need to get him involved as a receiver. He wasn’t used nearly enough in the passing game last week, and that’s a missed opportunity.
Hall in space is a mismatch waiting to happen.
3. Spread the Ball Around
Adonai Mitchell had his breakout moment in Week 13 - eight catches, 102 yards, and a touchdown. His speed and route running were on full display, and it’s clear why the Jets made sure he was part of the Sauce Gardner trade with the Colts. But as tempting as it might be to keep feeding him, the Jets need to resist tunnel vision.
This offense works better when multiple guys are involved. Tyrod Taylor has done a nice job distributing the ball since taking over for Justin Fields, and that needs to continue.
John Metchie III had a tough outing last week with a few drops, but he’s still a reliable target when in rhythm. Tight end Mason Taylor also needs to stay in the mix - his ability to work the middle of the field is a valuable safety valve for Taylor.
With Garrett Wilson still sidelined, there’s no clear-cut No. 1 option - and that’s okay. In fact, it might be a strength. By keeping defenses guessing and spreading the wealth, the Jets can stay unpredictable and avoid the kind of stagnation that’s plagued them at times this year.
Bottom Line: If the Jets want to pull off the upset and keep their late-season spark alive, it starts with fundamentals - stop the run, feed your best playmaker, and keep the passing game balanced. Miami may have taken the first round, but with a cleaner defensive effort and a smarter offensive game plan, New York has a real shot at evening the score.