As the NFL regular season barrels towards a dramatic conclusion, the Miami Dolphins find themselves embroiled in a high-stakes playoff push. With their postseason aspirations hanging in the balance, the Dolphins are preparing for a pivotal Week 18 clash against the New York Jets. However, a cloud of uncertainty looms over the quarterback position, as starter Tua Tagovailoa continues to nurse a nagging hip injury.
Huntley Primed to Lead Dolphins’ Charge
Amidst the swirling speculation, head coach Mike McDaniel hinted that backup quarterback Tyler Huntley is likely to get the nod on Sunday. The second-year signal-caller impressed in relief duty last week, showcasing his dual-threat abilities while leading the Dolphins to a crucial victory over the Cleveland Browns.
I’m approaching it as if I think [Huntley is] starting today. As a team, I think it’s very easy for us to adjust as the week progresses. But I think we have to approach it a certain way.
– Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel
Tagovailoa’s Status Remains in Limbo
The Samoan Southpaw has been a limited participant in practice this week, leaving his availability for Sunday’s tilt very much in doubt. Despite Tagovailoa’s burning desire to compete, the Dolphins’ medical staff has erred on the side of caution, deeming his hip ailment “not safe at all” to play through at this juncture.
- Huntley took the majority of first-team reps in practice this week
- Dolphins doctors advised that playing Tua would be “not safe at all”
Playoff Implications Abound
The gravity of this weekend’s contest cannot be overstated for the Dolphins. A victory over the Jets, coupled with a Denver Broncos loss to the mighty Kansas City Chiefs, would punch Miami’s ticket to the postseason for the third consecutive year. In this tantalizing scenario, an AFC East rematch with the Buffalo Bills would await the Dolphins in the wild-card round.
| Dolphins’ Playoff Clinching Scenario |
| MIA win + DEN loss = Dolphins clinch playoff berth |
Huntley’s Chance to Shine
For Tyler Huntley, Sunday presents a golden opportunity to cement his status as a starting-caliber quarterback in the NFL. The former Utah standout has shown flashes of brilliance in his limited action, tantalizing fans with his strong arm and elusive scrambling ability. With the stakes at their highest, Huntley will be counted upon to rise to the occasion and deliver a season-defining performance.
The Dolphins are preparing as if Tyler Huntley will start Sunday against the New York Jets.
– ESPN’s Marcel Louis-Jacques
A Team United in Purpose
Regardless of who lines up under center come kickoff, the Miami Dolphins remain steadfast in their pursuit of postseason glory. The team has rallied around the “next man up” mentality, with players on both sides of the ball stepping up to shoulder the load. From the dynamic play-making of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle to the stout run defense anchored by Christian Wilkins and Jaelan Phillips, the Dolphins possess the talent to make some serious noise in January.
As the final chapter of the 2022 NFL season unfolds, all eyes will be fixated on Hard Rock Stadium. With their playoff destiny firmly in their own hands, the Miami Dolphins stand poised to seize the moment and etch their names into the annals of franchise history. The journey to immortality begins anew on Sunday, as Tyler Huntley and company look to vanquish the Jets and keep the dream of a Super Bowl run alive.
