The Miami Dolphins will be scoreboard watching on Sunday afternoon.
The stage is set for a dramatic finale to the 2024 NFL regular season.
The Miami Dolphins travel to MetLife Stadium to face the New York Jets in a high-stakes Week 18 clash. With playoff implications on the line for Miami and divisional pride for the Jets, this match-up promises to be a fierce battle.
Unfortunately for Miami, while a win is essential for their playoff hopes, they also need the Kansas City Chiefs to beat the Denver Broncos.
It is here that hopes might take a knock, as the Chiefs are resting key starters – with Carson Wentz replacing Pat Mahomes.
There are even rumours that third-string quarterback Chris Oladokun will play the second half. As a result, the Broncos are 11.5 point favourites.
For Miami, the hip injury suffered by Tua Tagovailoa has not sufficiently recovered, so Tyler Huntley will make his second consecutive start. Huntley did put in a strong performance in the win over the Cleveland Browns in Week 17.
While not the passer Tua is, ‘Snoop’ does have the added element of mobility, as his 50 yards last week showed. He was often scrambling for key first downs, as well as a touchdown.
Despite an awful season, the Jets are motivated to end their season on a high note and disrupt the Dolphins’ playoff chances. Players have expressed they are treating this game with high importance, akin to a playoff game.
I expect a close, hard-fought game between these AFC East rivals. While the Jets have the defense to keep it close, Miami’s desperation should ultimately carry the day.
Prediction: Dolphins 20-13 Jets.
