Sunday summed up the Dolphins' season well. They were good sometimes, but inconsistent play, turnovers, and Tua's absence doomed them. The result did not matter; the Broncos demolished the Chiefs' backups and practice squad members 38-0.
The Dolphins started the game off well, holding the Jets to three punts and an interception on their first three drives, but they couldn't capitalize much, only scoring two field goals. It all opened up after the Jets' first touchdown, as there was only one punt for the rest of the game. It's possible that the Dolphins heard news of the score in Denver, and it affected their play.
The Dolphins end the season 8-9 with many questions about the personnel and front office heading into the offseason.
Huntley Couldn't Replicate Cleveland Game
In the preview, I expressed my concerns about Tyler Huntley's ability to have two good games in a row. He played well against the Browns, but I doubted he could do it again, and unfortunately for Huntley, I was right. He went 25/41 for 227 yards but also produced three costly turnovers, two interceptions, and a fumble.
He had a QBR of 31.3 (1-100 scale) and was sacked four times. The most surprising bit is that he only carried the ball thrice for 16 yards, even though the Jets struggle against athletic quarterbacks. 115 of his 227 yards came in the fourth quarter when the game was out of reach.
It's a shame for Huntley; he shouldn't have had to be in this position, but he did not play well. I still think he'll be retained as the backup for next season, but we'll see.
Rodgers Torched Defense
It looked like it would be another challenging game for the Jets when Aaron Rodgers' first pass attempt was tipped and intercepted. However, he bounced back, and the Dolphins had no answers. He found Tyler Conklin for his 500th career touchdown pass early in the second quarter and didn't look back.
Not long after, he found long-time companion Allen Lazard to make the score 15-6 right before halftime. The Dolphins hung around, making it 18-13 on a De'Von Achane touchdown run, but it was too little. Rodgers then put together back-to-back touchdown drives to put the game out of reach. It was his first game with four touchdown passes all season, and it could have been the last time we see him playing on an NFL field.
Looking into Offseason
With the season behind us, the Dolphins have some big decisions to make. The first has already been dealt with, as it's been announced that GM Chris Grier and head coach Mike McDaniel will retain their positions for next season. The fans have increasingly disliked Grier, and McDaniel could be on the hot seat if next season starts poorly.
Tyreek Hill also said that "he's out" in a post-game interview, but Grier stated that he did not ask for a trade-in their latest meeting. This could be true, but it may also just be to slow down any rumors. I believe it to be about 50-50 at the moment. Regardless, it would be interesting to see Waddle as the WR1 in the offense, with Jonnu Smith and Achane contributing.
Speaking of Achane, he's one of the few bright spots this season. He led all running backs in receiving yards and still managed over 900 rushing yards while being a touchdown machine. I expect Raheem Mostert to be let go and Jaylen Wright to take his place, freshening up the running back room.
The number one target in the draft and offseason should be the offensive line, which Grier has already addressed in his latest press conference. It's time to see if he'll act upon those words.
Bet Recap from Preview
Jets -1.5. cashes. I felt that Rodgers wouldn't go down easily, even in a meaningless game. The Dolphins end the season 7-10 ATS.
Final Score: Jets 32, Dolphins 20
Souza's Three Stars
1st Star- De'Von Achane (11 carries, 121 yards, 1 TD)
2nd Star- Jonnu Smith (9 receptions, 56 yards, 1 TD)
3rd Star- Zach Sieler (6 tackles, 1.5 sacks)
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