Miami Dolphins rooting guide: Wild playoff dreams hinge on Week 13 upsets and rival collapses
As the Miami Dolphins gear up for the final stretch of the season, their playoff aspirations remain tenuous. With their current standing in the AFC, the path to a postseason berth is steep, but hope springs eternal. After a much-needed bye week, the Dolphins return with a two-game winning streak, and while it may seem premature to discuss playoff scenarios, it’s an exhilarating thought worth entertaining.
Current Playoff Picture
Presently, the Dolphins sit in 11th place in the AFC, trailing behind wild-card contenders like the Houston Texans, Kansas City Chiefs, and Pittsburgh Steelers. They find themselves two full games out of contention and three games behind a trio of teams—Jacksonville Jaguars, Los Angeles Chargers, and Buffalo Bills—who are locked in a tie for the fifth seed.
To keep their playoff hopes alive, the Dolphins must finish strong, needing at least five victories in their remaining six games. However, even a strong finish may not be enough without some favorable outcomes from other teams. As we delve into Week 13, here’s a detailed rooting guide to help Miami fans navigate the complex playoff landscape.
The Teams the Dolphins Most Want to See Win in Week 13
Tennessee Titans (vs. Jacksonville Jaguars), Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
The Jaguars are a team the Dolphins need to leapfrog in the standings. A win for the Titans, led by Cam Ward, would be a significant upset that could aid Miami’s cause.
Dallas Cowboys (vs. Kansas City Chiefs), Thursday, 4:30 p.m. ET
In this interconference clash, the Cowboys are the clear choice for Dolphins fans. Dallas is riding high after a thrilling comeback victory against the Eagles, and a win here would bolster Miami’s chances.
Las Vegas Raiders (at L.A. Chargers), Sunday, 4:15 p.m. ET
With a new offensive coordinator at the helm, the Raiders may find renewed energy. Maxx Crosby’s ability to exploit the Chargers’ shaky offensive line could lead to an upset that helps Miami.
Cincinnati Bengals (at Baltimore Ravens), Thursday, 8:20 p.m. ET
The Bengals are set to welcome back Joe Burrow, and while they may be competing for the AFC North title, their success could impact wild-card standings.
Indianapolis Colts (vs. Houston Texans), Sunday, 1 p.m. ET
Both the Colts and Texans sit ahead of Miami in the standings. However, a Colts victory would make it easier for the Dolphins to catch up to Houston.
Washington Commanders (vs. Denver Broncos), Sunday, 8:20 p.m. ET
While this matchup may lack intrigue, the Commanders’ victory would still help Miami as they navigate their own playoff aspirations against an unfamiliar NFC foe.
New York Giants (at New England Patriots), Monday, 8:15 p.m. ET
A win from the Patriots would effectively eliminate the Dolphins from AFC East title contention. While this outcome feels inevitable, it remains a pivotal moment in the Dolphins’ quest for the playoffs.
Pittsburgh Steelers (vs. Buffalo Bills), Sunday, 4:25 p.m. ET
This matchup presents a crucial opportunity for the Dolphins. A loss for the Steelers will be beneficial when they meet Miami on December 15, and with a difficult schedule ahead, Pittsburgh may struggle down the stretch.
Week 12 Games of No Consequence to the Dolphins
For Dolphins fans, some matchups in Week 12 offer a chance for entertainment, particularly those not involving AFC rivals. While the Dolphins are set to gain a third-round pick from the Philadelphia Eagles due to the Jaelan Phillips trade, the pick is likely to be late in the round. Thus, a slight preference may exist for the Cowboys against the Eagles, but it bears little relevance to Miami’s playoff pursuit.
As Week 13 unfolds, Dolphins fans can hold onto their hopes of an improbable playoff run. With the right outcomes, the dream isn’t entirely out of reach.
