Miami Dolphins vs. New York Jets preview

With last week’s win over the lowly Chiefs, in the coldest game in Dolphins history, Miami has positioned itself to win the AFC East crown this coming Sunday at the Meadowlands, against the rival Jets. Win or loss, Miami has completely refurbished itself from the league laughingstock to a respectable playoff contender. Head coach Tony Sparano has done a masterful job, demanding that every player be accountable for his performance or risk the possibility of playing time or even his job. Never before in league has history had a team follow up a 1-15 season with 10 victories the ensuing year… until this Dolphins team.

The Jets meanwhile, have lost 3 of their past 4 games after climbing to an 8-3 start. Prized veteran quarterback Brett Favre has thrown 6 interceptions with only 1 touchdown pass during that span. This past week, Favre hinted that his famed rocket arm has lost some of its thrust during the latter stages of the season. Nonetheless, the Jets boast a cast of superior talent and will be fighting for their playoff lives and possibly the job of their head coach, Eric Mangini, who is rumored to be on the hot seat if New York does not qualify for the postseason.

Favre’s effectiveness may very well prove to be the deciding factor in this game. Miami has struggled to defend talented skill players in the passing game all season long, so Favre’s ability to make quality throws to receivers Jerricho Cotchery and Laveranues Coles and scat back Leon Washington will be vital. Also, after being abused by Kansas City tight end Tony Gonzalez last week, the Dolphins must shore up their coverage in the middle of the field or risk being exposed by promising rookie tight end Dustin Keller. Miami must pressure Favre into poor decisions and force the future hall of fame quarterback to descend into his penchant for risky throws. If cornerback Will Allen cannot go due to injury, the Jets will have an even greater advantage in the passing game.

Miami must also be wary of running backs Thomas Jones and Leon Washington. Jones darted through the Dolphins defense for over 100 yards on an average of 4.6 yards per carry at Dolphins Stadium in the first meeting of the season, so it will be essential for Miami’s defense to corral the Pro Bowl running back. The run defense has improved substantially since Week 1, so this matchup may actually favor Miami this time around. However, the defense must tackle much better than it against Kansas City last week, or the game will likely be over before half time.

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On offense, Miami cannot afford to turn the ball over if it expects to win. The Dolphins must control the clock through a mix of short passing and strong running. With Kris Jenkins clogging the middle, the Jets defense matches up well with an offensive line that has lost both of its starting guards to injury for the balance of the season. Therefore, it will be essential for receivers Ted Ginn Jr. and Davone Bess to create separation in the passing game and loosen up the Jets defense to create more opportunities for Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown. Also, tight ends Anthony Fasano and David Martin will be relied upon to continue their strong play as of late.

Prediction

New York has more talent and will host the game at Giants stadium, where Miami has not beaten the Jets since 2003. Moreover, the Jets have beaten the Dolphins in 9 out of the past 10 games. However, the forecast for Sunday calls for a high in the 50s on Sunday, a rare treat for a Florida team playing on the road in December. Consider it an omen.

Miami 23 New York 20 in OT

By Glenn Katzman
ProFootball-fans.com Miami Dolphins Correspondent