Dolphins Dominate Jets in December Showdown
Tua Tagovailoa turned the chill of East Rutherford, New Jersey, into a warm victory for the Miami Dolphins. The Dolphins defeated the New York Jets 34-10, marking their fourth consecutive win. Tagovailoa remains unbeaten against the Jets, boasting a 7-0 record as a starter against them and 8-0 overall in games against this AFC East rival.
Even in colder conditions—41 degrees at kickoff—Tagovailoa found his rhythm. He noted, “Whether it’s hot or cold, you’ve got to go out there and play.”
Miami’s running game was on fire, racking up 239 rushing yards. De’Von Achane, before leaving with a rib injury, gained 92 yards and scored. Jaylen Wright stepped up, achieving a career-high 107 yards along with his first NFL touchdown, while rookie Ollie Gordon II added another rushing TD.
Tagovailoa completed 13 of 21 passes for 127 yards, including a touchdown to Jaylen Waddle. The Dolphins’ defense dominated, recording six sacks, with Zach Sieler contributing 2.5 of those.
The Jets struggled all game. With this loss, they were eliminated from playoff contention for the 15th straight season, the longest active drought in the NFL. Head coach Aaron Glenn expressed disappointment, stating, “I didn’t have these guys ready to play.”
In a key moment, undrafted rookie Brady Cook made his NFL debut for the Jets, stepping in after Tyrod Taylor’s injury. Cook finished the game with 14 completions on 30 attempts for 163 yards and two interceptions, but he did find some comfort as the game went on.
The Jets did show flashes of brilliance. Isaiah Williams returned a punt 78 yards for a touchdown, but it wasn’t enough to turn the tide.
As the Dolphins look ahead, they remain in contention for the playoffs after starting the season 1-6. Their ability to adapt and improve is critical. According to a recent study by the NFL Players Association, teams that establish a strong running game in December have a higher chance of success, reinforcing Miami’s recent strategy.
Next week, the Dolphins will take on the Pittsburgh Steelers, while the Jets will face the Jacksonville Jaguars. As the season progresses, both teams will feel the pressure to adapt, learn, and bounce back.
In football, that’s the name of the game.
