The Miami Dolphins earned their eighth victory of the season on Friday, as they beat the New York Jets 34-13 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Mike McDaniel’s offense didn’t look exactly like themselves, as quarterback Tua Tagovailoa threw two interceptions, including one ugly throw that resulted in a pick-6 for the Jets. Luckily, their defense was able to pick them up and hold New York to just one offensive score.
As we do after every game, let’s take a look at some of those who deserve credit and some who deserve criticism for their performances against the Jets.
STUD: WRs Jaylen Waddle and Tyreek Hill
Miami’s speedy duo has been incredible since they joined forces last season, and this game was no different.
Waddle and Hill combined for 216 yards and a score on 17 receptions.
They make life so much easier for everyone on the offense, including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and head coach/offensive play-caller Mike McDaniel.
DUD: Team health
Miami’s been negatively impacted by the injury bug with some regularity this season.
On Friday, they lost left tackle Terron Armstead to a quad injury and linebacker Jaelan Phillips to an Achilles.
You never want to speculate, but it feels like Phillips’ injury could be very serious.
STUD: Vic Fangio's defense
Miami’s defense has been locked in since Jalen Ramsey returned from his meniscus injury.
Against the Jets, they got to the quarterback 12 times, including seven sacks. They also recorded two interceptions and held the running backs to just 27 yards on eight rushes.
The front and secondary have been incredible, and everything they’re doing right now is working.
DUD: QB Tua Tagovailoa
Tagovailoa may have completed an impressive 70% of his passes, but he was far from his best on Friday.
The former first-round pick threw two interceptions in the contest, including a pass that was thrown directly to Jets cornerback Brandin Echols, who returned the pick for a touchdown.
On the very next drive, Tagovailoa tried to force another pass to Hill, and it was snagged by D.J. Reed.
Turnovers have been an issue for Tagovailoa this year, and it’s something he must fix going forward because better teams will capitalize on them.
