JuicyTalk
Preview for New York Jets @ Miami Dolphins
Monday night at Hard Rock Stadium brings together two AFC East teams still searching for their first win. The Miami Dolphins and New York Jets are both 0-3 and desperate to change the story of their seasons.
Don’t be fooled by the identical records. New York has been far more competitive than the standings suggest, dropping two games by a combined four points and battling the powerhouse Bills to the wire. They believe a first win is close and the return of quarterback Justin Fields, trending toward clearance from concussion protocol, could be the spark.
Fields’ dual-threat ability is the Jets’ X-factor. In limited action he has shown flashes with 245 passing yards, a touchdown, 97 rushing yards and two more scores, and his presence changes the plan for Miami’s struggling defense. If he is not cleared, veteran Tyrod Taylor proved capable in last week’s narrow loss to Tampa Bay, but the upside is not the same.
The injury list remains a worry. Linebacker Jermaine Johnson II and corner Jarvis Brownlee Jr. missed Thursday practice, while several others, including Josh Reynolds and Tony Adams, were limited. Depth could become an issue if the game turns into a war of attrition.
Miami, meanwhile, is searching for anything resembling rhythm. The Dolphins have surrendered over 30 points in every game and rank last in scoring defense at 32.3 points per contest. Opponents are averaging 370 yards a week and there has been little sign of resistance.
On offense the numbers are not much kinder. Tua Tagovailoa has thrown five touchdowns but already four interceptions on just 89 attempts, and the once-feared speed attack has sputtered. Tyreek Hill remains the lone consistent threat with 198 yards and a score, while rookie De’Von Achane offers promise on the ground, yet drives continue to stall.
Tagovailoa also faces a growing injury list around him. Jaylen Waddle and tight end Darren Waller are nursing shoulder issues, while corners Storm Duck and Jason Marshall Jr. missed practice. The pressure is mounting and outside criticism, including a public jab from former MVP Cam Newton, has only intensified the spotlight.
