By Nunnie Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editor
The Miami Dolphins defeated the Las Vegas Raiders at home, securing consecutive wins for the first time in 2024. The Raiders, desperate for a victory under first year head coach Antonio Pierce, fought hard for 3 quarters before the Fins were able to put the game away. Miami’s offensive consistency, scoring on all 6 possessions in the second half, propelled the team to victory while the defense and the sage Calais Campbell shut the door on the inadequate Raider offense. Jalen Ramsey’s interception sealed the 34-19 victory. It is obviously clear that Tua’s efficiency and ability to maneuver pocket are essential to offensive proficiency. Tight end Jonnu Smith, he of the 100 yard receiving game, has taken pressure off Tyreek , Jaylen and the receiving corps. And Odell Beckham continues to make critical contributions. If they remain focused, a wild card possibility is within their grasp. The remaining schedule is both encouraging and problematic on paper, with both difficult challenges and tangible possibilities. They have winnable division contests against the Patriots and Jets (twice) as well as the Browns, but imposing, difficult games against the Packers, Texans, and 49ers. The Dolphins appear to be trending in a positive direction at the right time so anything is possible.
The College Football Playoffs aka CFP is working just as planned. Interest is sky high with multiple teams holding on to the possibility of being one of the 12. It appears at this moment that at least 4 Big Ten teams will be selected: Oregon, Ohio State, Indiana and Penn State. In the SEC, things are more convoluted as Texas has 1 loss and 5 others have 2 losses: Alabama, Georgia, Ole Miss, Tennessee and Texas A&M. There are SEC coaches who have expressed trepidation about playing in the conference championship game, fearing a loss would automatically eliminate them. Actually, it is a real possibility if it gives that losing team 3 losses. There are only a few that could overcome that deficit or have the national credibility to be considered as there are too many other teams worthy of consideration including BYU, Miami, Clemson, SMU and Colorado. The formula for selection is clear, however. Win!!!
Do you realize how overlapping sports is today. Pick your choice among college basketball, the NBA, the NHL, pro soccer, et al. I don’t know about you, but I’m going to concentrate on football, college and pro, for example, our upcoming trips to Orlando and Montgomery for the Florida Citrus Classic rivalry between BC-U and FAMU and the Turkey Day Classic featuring Alabama State and Tuskegee. The other sports will eventually have their day in the sunshine.