New York Jets vs Miami Dolphins Preview – December 8

The Miami Dolphins welcome the New York Jets to Hard Rock Stadium on Sunday in a clash of struggling AFC East teams. While neither squad is in the playoff hunt, pride and momentum will be on the line as these rivals square off in Miami.
Miami enters the game after a disappointing loss to the Green Bay Packers, where missed tackles and cold weather played a role. The Jets, meanwhile, are coming off a rough stretch of eight losses in their last nine games, and they’ll look to Aaron Rodgers to lead a turnaround in what has been a forgettable season for New York.
New York Jets
The Jets are 3-9 on the season and sit at the bottom of the AFC East standings. Aaron Rodgers has been at the helm all year but hasn’t delivered the results fans hoped for. Despite his experience, Rodgers’ mobility has been a concern, and his 2024 stats—192.8 passing yards per game with just nine touchdowns—are a far cry from his MVP-caliber seasons.
New York’s offense has struggled to find consistency. Garrett Wilson continues to shine with 74 receptions and is on pace for another 1,000-yard season, but running back Breece Hall has been hampered by injuries and ball security issues. With multiple offensive linemen also out, protecting Rodgers and creating running lanes will be a challenge against Miami’s defense. Interim head coach Jeff Ulbrich has not been able to steer the team back on course, and this week presents yet another uphill battle.
Miami Dolphins
The Dolphins, at 5-7, are clinging to slim playoff hopes and need to win out to stay in contention. Their 30-17 loss to Green Bay highlighted defensive lapses, with linebacker Jordyn Brooks publicly criticizing the team’s effort. However, head coach Mike McDaniel remains optimistic, emphasizing accountability and improvement in preparation for Sunday.
Offensively, Miami’s strength lies in its playmakers. Tua Tagovailoa has shown flashes of brilliance when healthy, leading the Dolphins to score over 23 points in five of their last six games. Wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle provide explosive options downfield, while running back De’Von Achane adds balance on the ground. Miami will look to leverage these weapons against a Jets defense missing key players, including cornerback Sauce Gardner.
Pick and Prediction
This matchup favors Miami, especially at home, where the Dolphins have been more consistent. The Jets’ offensive line struggles and lack of a reliable ground game will likely limit their ability to control the clock or sustain drives. Miami’s defensive unit, while inconsistent, has enough firepower to disrupt Rodgers and capitalize on mistakes.
Expect Tua and the Dolphins’ offense to take advantage of New York’s weakened secondary, with Hill and Waddle poised for big games. Miami’s playoff hopes may be slim, but this matchup provides them with an opportunity to keep the dream alive.
- Prediction: Miami Dolphins 27, New York Jets 13