Miami Dolphins make a bad statement on Tyreek Hill-less victory
Despite a 10-4 record, the Miami Dolphins have been subject to scrutiny this year. Victories over teams with losing records have been an easy task, but with losses to the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, and Philadelphia Eagles, questions have been raised about the Dolphins’ ability to hang with Super Bowl contenders.
A Week 14 loss to the Tennessee Titans didn’t help their case, as Miami’s typically dynamic offense appeared flat and uninspired without star wideout Tyreek Hill for most of the game. It wasn’t until the fourth quarter the Dolphins were able to find the end zone again, and it was no coincidence that touchdowns aligned with Hill briefly re-entering the game.
Hill’s availability came down to the wire on Sunday against the New York Jets, as the “Cheetah” had continued to nurse his ankle injury throughout the week. Despite running pre-game routes, the receiver was ruled out just before kickoff. All eyes turned to Jaylen Waddle, the WR2 who would be stepping into a bigger role on short notice.
The former University of Alabama standout stepped up to the plate, recording eight receptions for 142 yards and a touchdown. Waddle made it look easy up against a top-tier defense consisting of cornerback Sauce Gardner.
While the passing game was strong, the running game continued to produce. Raheem Mostert found the end zone for his 19th and 20th touchdowns of the season. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa had no problems without his right hand-man Hill, completing 21-of-24 pass attempts for 224 yards and a touchdown in a 30-0 victory over the Jets.
Although the Dolphins produced without Hill, they’ll need all hands on deck for a challenging upcoming schedule. Luckily for Tagovailoa and Co., Hill will likely be available for Sunday’s game against the Dallas Cowboys.
