By “Nunnie” Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editors
The Miami Dolphins fought valiantly against the Buffalo Bills at Hardrock Stadium on Sunday night, but couldn’t overcome the injuries before and during game, some grievous missteps, and momentum altering plays that literally turned victory into defeat. Though every NFL team deals with injuries at this time of the year, the Fins appear especially prone to the injury bug beginning with Jaelan Phillips, then Bradley Chubb and Xavien Howard. Andrew Van Ginkel injuring his foot during game meant that 4 crucial defensive starters were missing. In the aftermath of these devastating injuries, we learned that star LB Jerome Baker will miss the rest of the playoffs, placing the Dolphins in the precariuos position of traveling to frigid Kansas City as a wildcard to face Patrick Mahommes and the defending Super Bowl champion Chiefs. Ironically, the defense held their own, considering the score early in 4th quarter was 14-7. With 13 minutes remaining in game, the Bills held, forcing a 3 and out and a punt. Dolphins punter Jake Bailey out kicked the coverage, the Bills Deonte Harry returned it 96 yards – untouched – for the tying score. Later in the game after the Bills had taken a 21-14 lead, and with the Fins desperately in need of a stop, the fatigued defense allowed the resilient, resourceful Josh Allen to run 13 yards for a first down. And though the defense would give Tua and the offense one final opportunity to tie the game when they held the Bills on 4th and 1, Tua’s sideline pass to Cedrick Wilson was intercepted, virtually ending the game.
Here are my takeaways from game. See if you agree. Tua relies too heavily on Tyreek Hill, especially when he’s doubled, leaving him vulnerable to injury. Notice he left field several times limping or appearing uncomfortable. I’ve said many times before that the Dolphins have a deep and capable receiving corps. The coaches played it too safely when there were opportunities to extend drives, unlike the Bills who rolled the dice often on 4th down. Mind you, the Dolphins were the underdog even at home. Coach McDaniel continued running the counter to De’Von Achane in the second half even after the Bills had adjusted. Too many missed opportunities on 3rd down. Championship teams make plays in crucial situations to extend drives. In a nutshell, the offense ended the first half with back to back TD drives but was shut out in the second half, as they were outgained 187-57 and 0-for-4 on third down over the final 30 minutes. The Dolphins simply didn’t get it done !
The importance of the game can’t be understated. A win would have secured a division title and a subsequent home game against the Bills at the Hardrock. Now we’re on to frigid Kansas City. I won’t bore you with stats and as a diehard fan, I will ride or die with our Miami Dolphins. Go FINS!!
