Dolphins Seek to Overcome Post-Bills Victory Challenge Against Commanders
The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for their fourth win of the season, facing a formidable challenge against the Washington Commanders. After an exhilarating victory over the Buffalo Bills, the Dolphins now confront the specter of a post-victory hangover, a phenomenon that has historically plagued them when coming off high-stakes wins against division rivals.
Celebrating a High-Profile Win
The Dolphins reveled in their recent triumph against the Bills, a game that marked a high point in their season. Players were spotted joyously celebrating in laundry bins, while wide receivers coach Robert Prince showcased his moves with some breakdancing. Head coach Mike McDaniel even made a point of driving past a Fort Lauderdale bar known for its Bills fan patronage, adding a cheeky touch to the festivities.
This win was particularly significant, not only for its immediate impact but also as a noticeable shift in momentum. The Dolphins halted Buffalo’s recent dominance over them, giving the team a much-needed morale boost following the departure of general manager Chris Grier.
The Challenge Ahead
As the Dolphins prepare for their encounter with the Commanders, McDaniel faces an essential task: preventing his players from succumbing to a post-Bills hangover. In the NFL, emotion often plays a pivotal role in determining outcomes, and the Dolphins displayed palpable determination at Hard Rock Stadium. Bills quarterback Josh Allen acknowledged this, noting the desperate energy the Dolphins brought to the field.
However, this week, the tables have turned. The Commanders enter the matchup as the team in dire need of a win. Coming off a disheartening 22-point loss to the Detroit Lions, they will be missing key players, including their starting quarterback, their top wide receiver, and arguably their best defensive player.
Despite the mismatched rosters indicating a potential Dolphins advantage, the game isn’t played on paper.
A Troubling Trend for the Dolphins
Historically, the Dolphins have struggled to maintain their winning momentum after notable victories, particularly against elite competition like Tom Brady and Josh Allen. Currently, they are riding a five-game losing streak in the week following victories against either quarterback, a trend that raises eyebrows as they head into this game.
This streak includes notable defeats that followed high-stakes wins, such as their 2022 loss against the Cincinnati Bengals after edging out the Bills. The Dolphins have not won the week after beating Brady or Allen since 2009, when they followed a narrow victory against New England with a win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.
McDaniel’s coaching prowess was on full display against the Bills, but his most critical challenge this week may well be ensuring his players remain focused and prepared, avoiding the pitfalls that have historically followed such celebrated victories.
As the Dolphins prepare to face the Commanders, they not only aim for a win but also seek to break a cycle that has haunted them in the past. The stakes are high, and this game could prove pivotal in determining the trajectory of their season.
