Tis The Season To Change The Narrative

By: Mike Rifkin

As the regular season is ending, the Miami Dolphins have an opportunity to change a narrative. The Dolphins, who sit with a 10-4 record, are 0-3 vs teams that are .500 or better. That has to change over the last three games because they take on three outstanding teams, starting with the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday.

The Dolphins are coming off a 30-0 beatdown of the New York Jets. Tua Tagovailoa was 21-24 for 224 yards and a touchdown. Raheem Mostert had 42 yards on 15 carries and two touchdowns. In the absence of Tyreek Hill, Jaylen Waddle, who was out with an ankle injury, had his best game of the season with eight catches for 142 yards and a touchdown. The Dolphin’s defense had six sacks, including three by Bradley Chubb, who was named the AFC Defensive Player of the Week. The defense also forced four turnovers. 

The Cowboys are coming off a 31-10 loss at the Bills. The Bills ran the ball down the Cowboys’ throat all game, rushing for 266 yards as a team, including 179 from James Cook. Offensively, the Bills got a lot of pressure on Dak Prescott, and the Cowboy’s offense had its worst day of the season. 

Keys to the game

1. Grab an early lead – Last week, the Cowboys were playing catchup the whole game and looked lost at times; if the Dolphins can do it this week, Dallas can be in trouble.
2. Neutralize Micah Parsons – Last week, the Bills were able to neutralize the Cowboy’s pass rush with the run game, which means number 11 on the defense isn’t his game-wrecking self; if the Dolphins can run the ball with the same effect, Parsons could have a silent night.
3. Pressure Dak – Hopefully, the Dolphin’s defense will have Xavien Howard, Deshon Elliott, and Jevon Holland in the secondary. Tyron Smith is doubtful, and Zach Martin is questionable with injury; if they miss Bradley Chubb, the company can make life difficult for Dak.

The Dolphins’ last three games must change a narrative entering the playoffs that starts on Christmas Eve.