New York Jets at Miami Dolphins 1:00p.m. Sunday, December 8th

At the time the 2024 NFL schedule was released, this Sunday’s game between the New York Jets and the Miami Dolphins was one many fans on both sides circled. It looked like a marquee matchup featuring a healthy Aaron Rodgers behind the Jet’s rebuilt offensive line and one of the top defenses in the league leading Gang Green into hostile territory to face the high-octane offense and the top-ten defense of the Miami Dolphins. It was expected to be one of the most awaited match ups of the season. So much for expectations.

The Dolphins lost their starting quarterback, Tua Tagovailoa, and it sent their season into a tailspin. The Jets didn’t lose anyone as integral to their season as Tagovailoa is to the Dolphins, but New York has managed just three wins, and they have parted ways with their head coach and general manager. Instead of a critical game in the race for the AFC East, Sunday’s game will feature two teams who have already been eliminated from division contention and are clinging to a microscopic mathematical chance at a wildcard playoff berth. Why should you watch the game? Well, no matter where the records stand, it is still the Jets against the Dolphins.

In addition to the dislike each team has for the other, and the loyal fanbases’ desire to torpedo the other team’s remaining hopes at the postseason, there is the matter of the point spread. Miami is giving the Jets 6 points with the over/under currently at 45. If the lack of playoff implications is an issue for you, maybe increase the game’s significance on a personal level. Look for your ultimate destination for PayID pokies, and sportsbook platforms and try your luck.

What should we expect in this game?

The Miami Dolphins sit at 5-6 while the New York Jets come in at 3-9. The Dolphins have shown flashes of what they might have been with Tua Tagovailoa back under center. Tua has thrown for 2,125 yards in limited action. He has 15 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions. The Dolphins are a different team with him back in uniform. It must be hard for Miami fans to think about the season that might have been.

On the other side, Jet quarterback Aaron Rodgers has thrown for 2,627 yards with 19 touchdowns and 8 interceptions. The Jets have no excuse for their poor performance this year, and it is hard to pinpoint exactly why the 2024 team has underperformed last year’s version of the Jets despite having much more talent on paper.

Players to Watch

The Jets defense has struggled against the run. Miami running back De’Von Achane will be a key to the game. Archane is explosive, and he will be essential to Miami’s ability to move the chains. Raheem Mostert would typically assist in hammering at the Jet defense, but he is questionable. Injuries will be a big factor on Sunday. Also questionable for the Dolphins is Tyreek Hill. Hill, if he is able to suit up, would get to matchup against a Jet secondary likely to be without cornerback Sauce Gardner who is doubtful for the game. The Jet’s running game has struggled all season and figures to be without starter Breece Hall. Hall is doubtful to suit up, and his absence will mean the Jet’s already struggling running attack will be even less dangerous.

History

The rivalry between the Dolphins vs Jets spans several decades. Miami has won 60 and the Jets 56 of the matchups between the teams. The last game these two teams played in Miami was a one-sided affair with the Dolphins hammering the Jets 30-0. Miami won both games the teams played last season, winning at Metlife field 34-13. Miami has won seven of the last eight games between the two teams.

Game Details

• Date: December 8, 2024
• Location: Hard Rock Stadium
• Kickoff Time: 1:00 PM ET
• Broadcast: CBS

Final Thoughts

It’s hard to make a case for the Jets winning on the road on Sunday. Miami is a more complete team with Tua at the helm. Sauce Gardner’s absence will be felt especially if Tyreek Hill is able to play. With or without Hill, Miami should run the ball well causing the Jets wounded secondary problems against play-action. Expect Archane and Tagovailoa to have big days.

Miami 30 – New York 14

Steve Johnson

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