By Sylvester “Nunnie” Robinson
The Miami Dolphins overcame a lackluster offensive performance, a hand injury to lightening fast Tyreek Heel and a dangerous Las Vegas Raider squad, determined to gain relevance during a tumultuous season that saw radical coaching and personnel changes which bore immediate results: two consecutive victories. The Dolphin coaches and players understood and met the formidable challenge, defeating the Raiders 20-13, improving their record to 7-3 and maintaining a two game lead over the enigmatic Buffalo Bills. According to Coach McDaniel, “the goal is to win the division, very important to us.”
Statistically, the Dolphins were dominant, but it didn’t translate into a blowout on the scoreboard. Tua was 28/39 for 323 yards with 2 touchdown passes, one to Tyreek Hill (10 receptions for 146 yards and 1 touchdown) and an 11 yard TD pass to Salvon Ahmed. Jaylen Waddle also had a productive game with many key receptions leading to field goals by reliable kicker Jason Sanders. In addition, Raheem Mostert rushed for 86 yards on 22 carries.
The Dolphins lead the league in seven offensive categories, including total offense (435.3), passing offense (287.4), scoring offense (31.7), yards per play (7.1), yards per rush (5.9), red zone efficiency (75.0) and explosive plays of 25+ yards (30). Miami also leads the NFL in points scored (285) and total yards (3,918). However, those gaudy stats mean absolutely nothing if they don’t translate into points.
The defense, led by Jalen Ramsey, Jack Sieler, Christian Wilkins, Bradley Chubb, and Jaelan Phillips – 2 sacks and an interception- shut down the running attack and picked off Raider QB Aiden O’Connell twice in the final compelling moments to end any Raider hopes of winning the game.
Jalen Ramsey has brought an aggressive, ball-hawking style to the defensive secondary. Seeing cornerbacks jump throws as if the balls were intended for them is a thing of beauty, and Christian Wilkins continues to set hustle examples that make all Fins fans proud.
The Dolphins are back in action on Friday, Nov. 24th to take on the New York Jets in the NFL’s first ever Black Friday game. Kickoff at MetLife Stadium is set for 3 p.m. ET on Prime Video.
Devon Achane was activated from the IR but suffered a setback, and Robbie Chosen was activated from the practice squad.
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