Run Dolphins Run: Miami Dominates Jets to Move to Six and Seven

Just as I called for in the pregame, run the ball.

The Miami Dolphins did exactly that, racing out to a 21-0 lead and never looking back. Their first quarter was as close to perfect as it gets: three drives, three touchdowns, 96 rushing yards, 103 passing yards, and a defensive interception. It was the kind of opening script Miami has been searching for all season.

After that explosive start, the offense cooled off, but Miami’s defense stepped up and carried the load. An early injury to Tyrod Taylor forced the Jets to turn to Brady Cook, and the Dolphins took full advantage. Miami’s defense racked up six sacks, three interceptions, and a fumble recovery, playing the kind of physical, winter-ready football that wins late in the year. Tough defense, clock control, and dominance on the ground.

Offensively, the brightest spot was the run game. Miami piled up 241 rushing yards, averaged 6.2 yards per carry, and scored three touchdowns, one from each back. De’Von Achane left early after putting up 92 yards and a score on only seven carries, and he had no reason to return with the ground game rolling.

Jaylen Wright, a healthy scratch for much of the season, delivered his best performance as a pro with 24 carries for 107 yards and a touchdown. His effort helped Miami grind out the second half even when the offense began to sputter.

A major reason for the breakthrough was the growing cohesiveness of the offensive line and the rapid development of Jonah Savaiinaea, whose emergence has become a significant factor in Miami’s success on the ground.

Defensively, Rasul Douglas continued his outstanding stretch and has proven to be Miami’s best offseason addition. Zach Sieler also turned in his best outing of the year, recording 2.5 sacks and consistently disrupting the Jets protection.

Most importantly, this win showed that the team has not quit on Mike McDaniel and that Miami remains alive in the AFC playoff race.

Although Tua Tagovailoa still has not played to the level of a franchise quarterback, McDaniel has adjusted by leaning into what works and returning to his roots with a run-focused offense.

Miami’s next challenge is a critical Monday night road matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers, a game that carries major playoff implications.

The Dolphins will need more from Tua down the stretch, but they should not shy away from the identity that is currently carrying them. Run the ball, set the tone physically, and let a surging defense finish the job.