The Miami Dolphins have been in the playoffs for two consecutive seasons under head coach Mike McDaniel. They still have an opportunity to extend that to three straight but need help in Week 18.
What’s the scenario that sees the Dolphins reach the postseason?
What Is the Miami Dolphins’ Current Playoff Picture?
Update: The Dolphins were eliminated from playoff contention after the Denver Broncos defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 38-0.
The AFC East has long been decided, with the Buffalo Bills claiming yet another victory. That leaves a Wild Card spot as the Dolphins’ only path.
Miami owns the tiebreaker over both the Denver Broncos and Cincinnati Bengals due to a superior conference record. The Bengals’ game vs. the Pittsburgh Steelers on Saturday does not concern Miami, as there is no scenario where Cincinnati leapfrogs Miami if the Dolphins win.
Of course, the tiebreaker with the Broncos only comes into play if Miami can make up the one-game deficit in the standings. Therefore, the Dolphins have one specific scenario to make the playoffs:
- Win at NYJ AND
- DEN loss vs. KC
Beating the New York Jets shouldn’t be a huge issue. The Jets trailed 40-0 prior to pulling Aaron Rodgers against the Buffalo Bills last week and have lost six of its last seven games. Even with Tyler Huntley likely starting with Tua Tagovailoa (hip) doubtful, a Jets win would be shocking.
The more difficult task will be getting a win from the Chiefs’ backups. Notable Chiefs listed as out or doubtful on the final injury report included Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, Chris Jones, Trent McDuffie, Jawaan Taylor, Isiah Pacheco, George Karlaftis, Justin Reid, and Nick Bolton.
Denver has lost 17 of its last 18 vs. Kansas City, but this doesn’t resemble any of those Chiefs teams. The Broncos have lost two straight, but both were competitive road contests against the Los Angeles Chargers and Bengals. Playing at that level at home against a shell of a Chiefs team should be enough for Denver.
Still, Miami has some hope, more than many expected after a 2-6 start. If the Dolphins can take care of business against the Jets, they’ll be able to scoreboard watch with the Broncos and Chiefs playing simultaneously.