The Miami Dolphins quickly shook off their Monday night meltdown to the Tennessee Titans, and rebounded to defeat the rival New York Jets 30-0. Miami didn't have star wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who sat out Sunday due to an ankle injury, but Jaylen Waddle stepped up in his absence with a season-high 142 receiving yards on eight receptions, including a 60-yard touchdown.
Running back Raheem Mostert had himself a day, as he rushed for 42 yards and two touchdowns on 15 carries. His 19th and 20th touchdowns of the season scored on Sunday are the most touchdowns by a Dolphin in a single season in team history. Mostert also became the 28th player in NFL history to notch 20 touchdowns in a season.
As for the Jets, this was undoubtedly one of their worst performances of the season. Zach Wilson completed 4 of 11 passes for 26 yards before leaving the first half early due to what was first reported to be a hydration issue, then was changed to a head injury that was not a concussion, then was officially declared a concussion. Backup Trevor Siemian didn't change New York's fortunes, as he completed 14 of 26 passes for 110 yards and two interceptions.
The Jets have now officially been eliminated from playoff contention. Because of this loss, it feels unlikely we will see Aaron Rodgers again this season. Let's take a look at what transpired in Miami on Sunday.
Why the Dolphins won
This was not a "flashy" win from Miami, but it's not one that should be ignored, either. This Dolphins team was on a short week, without nine starters including Tyreek Hill, Xavien Howard and Jevon Holland, yet came out and took care of business. The reason Miami won Sunday was because of its defense -- really the defensive front. Bradley Chubb had three of Miami's six sacks, and the Dolphins got pressure on virtually every dropback while forcing four turnovers. The Jets had four yards of total offense in the first half, and ended with 103 total yards.
Why the Jets lost
You can't blame the quarterback play, you certainly can't blame the defense, but you can blame the offensive line. Wilson spent the first half running for his life, and even fumbled after a sack taken on the Jets' fourth play of the game. The offense was just nonexistent, which, unfortunately, has been a theme this year.
Turning point/play of the game
This was the moment where the game started to feel like it was getting a bit out of hand. After a Jets' three-and-out, the Dolphins offense took the field, and Tagovailoa went deep to Waddle for a 60-yard touchdown.
Great throw, great catch, great play.
What's next
The Jets return to New York next week, and will host the Washington Commanders on Christmas Eve. As for the Dolphins, they will remain at home and host Dak Prescott and the Dallas Cowboys.