The Miami Dolphins were given the opportunity to play in the NFL’s first Black Friday game against the New York Jets, and they earned a 34-13 victory.
Miami’s offense, once again, appeared to be just a tick off. At one point, they were down to just one starting offensive lineman, with left tackle Terron Armstead suffering a quad injury, left guard Isaiah Wynn on injured reserve, right guard Robert Hunt dealing with a hamstring and right tackle Austin Jackson ejected.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa completed 70% of his passes for 243 yards, one touchdown and two interceptions, including an ugly pick-6. He wasn’t really able to build much chemistry with his pass catchers outside of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
The duo of Waddle and Hill combined for 17 receptions for 216 yards and a score. Hill could’ve even had another score, as Tagovailoa placed a beautiful fade right into his hands, but it was dropped.
The Dolphins also committed to the run game, especially in the second half. Raheem Mostert had the most touches, rushing for 94 yards on 4.7 yards per attempt, and he found the end zone twice for his league-leading 12th and 13th scores. However, it was Jeff Wilson Jr. who was the more efficient back, rushing for 56 yards on 5.1 yards per carry. He also added another 17 yards on three receptions.
Defensively, Miami was lights out.
Their front was putting consistent pressure on Jets quarterback Tim Boyle, as he was hit 12 times. Christian Wilkins finished with two sacks, Emmanuel Ogbah had 1.5, Jaelan Phillips had one, Da’Shawn Hand had one, Zach Sieler had one and Raekwon Davis had a half-sack.
The front also limited Breece Hall and Dalvin Cook to just 27 yards on a combined eight rushes.
Jevon Holland returned a Hail Mary attempt by Boyle for a 99-yard touchdown before the half that really took any momentum away from the Jets after they intercepted Tagovailoa on back-to-back drives.
Linebacker Jerome Baker also recorded an interception on a ball that was tipped by Xavien Howard.
Unfortunately, things weren’t all great for the Dolphins’ defense, as Phillips suffered a non-contact injury that the team announced was to his Achilles. He was carted off the field while he was surrounded by his teammates.
Miami may have won and improved to 8-3, but it’s tough to feel great about it with Phillips news, as it feels like it could be very serious.
