Miami Dolphins: Boring matchup is actually a decided advantage
The Miami Dolphins (8-8) are playing for a lot this weekend against the rival New York Jets (7-9). A spot in the AFC playoffs is at stake as well as the rumors surrounding head coach Mike McDaniel and his job. Unfortunately for viewers, it won't be a quarterback battle between Tua Tagovailoa and Mike White. […]
The Miami Dolphins (8-8) are playing for a lot this weekend against the rival New York Jets (7-9). A spot in the AFC playoffs is at stake as well as the rumors surrounding head coach Mike McDaniel and his job.
Unfortunately for viewers, it won't be a quarterback battle between Tua Tagovailoa and Mike White. The team's best passers. Instead, it's confirmed now that both of the third string quarterback's will start.
Skylar Thompson vs Joe Flacco.
In addition to no Mike White, the Jets will also be without three starters to their offensive line. A decided advantage for the Dolphins.
All of this is great news for the Miami Dolphins and their playoff chances. Who also need the New England Patriots to lose to the Buffalo Bills to secure the seventh seed in the AFC.
Not only are the Jets down three more starters on the offensive line, but their best chance to win (White) is out, and are showing no signs of faith in their first-round QB (Zach Wilson).
In Flacco's last 10 starts, dating back to 2019, he was one victory. In those 10 games, he has been hit hard and inaccurate.
Completing 58.6% of his passes for 2,427 yards, 14 touchdowns and six interceptions. All while being sacked 29 times.
That same inaccuracy will be protected by yet again, another hurt offensive line. Against a pass rush who has 40 sacks (13th) and a 20.7% pressure rate on the season. Lead by second-year edge rusher Jaelen Phillips.
It may seem like a boring matchup of quarterbacks, but in this case boring is good.
Even if it means a heavy dose of Raheem Mostert, Jeff Wilson and even a number of play action and run-pass option plays to get Thompson's feet going.
Stopping the run is something the Jets haven't been able to stop in six games. Allowing 134.8 rush yards per game in that time span.
Amazingly, the Dolphins have the advantage, despite having the much less experienced QB3 on the field. If everything falls as it should, Miami might have at least one more game to play.
Mandatory Credit: David Butler II of USA TODAY Sports
