The Dolphins made an unusual, interesting decision ahead of Monday Night Football in an extra effort to secure a breakthrough win

The Dolphins shook up their practice routine ahead of Monday Night Football.

Kyle Crabbs — NFL National Writer

Dec 13, 2025 7:30 PM EST

The Miami Dolphins‘ final preparations for Monday Night Football in Pittsburgh against the Steelers are underway. Miami’s looking to shake several narratives in this AFC showcase, all while attempting to climb back to .500 for the first time since this season opened in Indianapolis against the Colts.

To do so, the Dolphins are doing some things differently than the status quo for road games — and it should, hopefully, have Miami better prepared for the challenge ahead. At least, Miami’s coaches and players will know what to expect on Monday night. Their final practice of the week is taking place Saturday night, under the lights. In Pittsburgh, no less.

Dolphins travel to Pittsburgh ahead of final practice, will get a test drive in the cold

“(Practicing in Pittsburgh on Saturday night) was something that was considered in the offseason. The odd part of the schedule is a Monday night on the road. It always feels like you’re so far removed from the last time you were on the football field. Doing it this way allows us to have our final full-speed practice about 48 hours from kickoff. It’ll be good, I think it’s an added bonus that we get to get ourselves into the environment, but realistically, that’s something we’ve been thinking about for a while to keep consistency about 48 hours from kickoff, having your last activity.”

— Mike McDaniel on the team’s decision to travel before final practice and do work in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh, for what it is worth, is in the midst of a Winter Storm Warning that’s forecast calls for 5-8 inches of snow on Saturday night. The warning runs through Sunday afternoon at 1:00 p.m. — a perfect set of adverse conditions to practice to prepare for Monday night.

The good news for Miami is that Monday’s conditions are not expected to be anywhere near as challenging as Saturday night’s practice, given the precipitation forecast for Saturday night and Monday. Will it actually make a difference? It’s hard to say with any level of certainty. But the Dolphins should be applauded for the effort to make some adjustments to their preparation and do what they can to be ready for what Monday has in store.