Dolphins Aim to Spoil Patriots’ Playoff Hopes in Season Finale
As the Miami Dolphins prepare for their season finale against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium, head coach Mike McDaniel continues to emphasize the importance of playing good football. Despite the fact that playoff aspirations have slipped away, McDaniel’s focus remains steadfast on finishing the regular season strong. However, there’s an intriguing subplot to this matchup: the potential for Miami to play the role of spoiler in New England’s playoff ambitions.
Revenge on the Mind
In their earlier encounter this season, the Patriots edged out the Dolphins in a tightly contested battle, securing a 33-27 victory at Hard Rock Stadium in Week 2. McDaniel has referenced this earlier clash, hinting at a desire for payback. A victory for the Dolphins would not only serve as a morale booster after a tumultuous season but could also complicate the Patriots’ postseason outlook. Miami, having struggled to a dismal 2-7 start, could finish the season with a commendable 6-2 record if they secure a win.
Playoff Implications for New England
Currently, the Patriots are in a precarious position, tied for the top seed in the AFC playoffs with the Denver Broncos at 13-3. However, they lack the tiebreaker advantage over Denver, which means they need more than just a win against the Dolphins to secure home-field advantage. The Broncos will be facing off against the Los Angeles Chargers, who clinched a playoff spot and could be looking to improve their seeding. The Chargers’ chances of winning took a hit when head coach Jim Harbaugh announced that star quarterback Justin Herbert would not be participating in the game.
If the Patriots fall to the Dolphins while the Broncos defeat the Jacksonville Jaguars, it could see New England drop to the No. 3 seed. This shift would force the Patriots to play on the road should they encounter the Dolphins again in the divisional round of the playoffs.
Historical Context: Dolphins’ Past Upsets
A Dolphins victory would certainly be an upset, but it wouldn’t be their first over the Patriots in a season finale. Back in the 2019 season, during what was dubbed the “Tank for Tua” campaign, Miami stunned Tom Brady and the Patriots with a 27-24 win. That game featured a pivotal pick-six from former New England defensive back Eric Rowe and concluded with Ryan Fitzpatrick’s touchdown pass to tight end Mike Gesicki. The loss cost the Patriots a first-round bye and ultimately led to their defeat against the Tennessee Titans in the playoffs—a game that marked Brady’s final appearance with the franchise.
Interestingly, some players from that memorable game remain active in the league. Punter Jake Bailey now dons a Dolphins uniform after previously playing with New England, while wide receiver Mack Hollins has switched allegiances in the opposite direction. The two constants from that game still with their respective teams are Dolphins defensive tackle Zach Sieler and kicker Jason Sanders.
A Historic Upset from the Past
Ten years prior, the Dolphins pulled off another stunning upset against the Patriots when they spoiled New England’s bid for the top seed in the AFC playoffs. The Dolphins, with nothing to lose at 5-10 and coming off a tumultuous season that saw the firing of head coach Joe Philbin, shocked the Patriots with a commanding 20-10 victory. They outgained New England 438-196, a performance that not only shifted the Patriots to the No. 2 seed but also ultimately led to their postseason exit against the Denver Broncos in the AFC Championship Game.
As the Dolphins gear up for this season’s finale, the stakes are high for both teams. Miami has the opportunity to end their season on a high note while complicating matters for New England’s playoff aspirations. The stage is set for an electrifying showdown that could resonate well beyond this season.
