Tua Tagovailoa was able to sneak some rest in against the New York Jets before the final whistle in Week 15. Tagovailoa torched the Jets for 225 yards on 20 of 23 passing, throwing for one touchdown. The Miami Dolphins cruised to a 27-0 lead by the early fourth quarter.
Tua Tagovailoa Leaves Game Early With Dolphins Up Big
This was considered close to a must-win game for Miami to stay in the race for the AFC’s top seed. The team’s shocking loss to the Tennessee Titans on Monday Night Football could have proved to be the start of another Dolphins collapse in December.
Instead, Miami delivered a beatdown on the Jets in every phase.
Even with star receiver Tyreek Hill sidelined and Jaylen Waddle suffering an injury on the opening drive, Tagovailoa led the Dolphins to an efficient outburst. Waddle returned to action to deliver a 142-yard performance.
Miami embarks on the most difficult remaining schedule in the NFL with three weeks left. The AFC East is still up for grabs as Buffalo trails Miami, so this was an important win for the franchise.
The Dolphins haven’t won a playoff game since 2001, and the franchise has seen several December meltdowns over the last two decades. Sunday’s comfortable win could show that the tides are turning.
MORE: NFL Standings and Playoff Picture Week 15
Miami was wise to get Tua rest now, as his health is the single most important factor in the team’s outlook.
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