Dolphins beat winning team, need to win again to host playoff game

Miami Dolphins defeat Dallas Cowboys 22-20, now 11-4. Control their playoff destiny. Defense strong, offense needs work. Tua Tagovailoa clutch.

The Miami Dolphins have been the subject of criticism all week due to their 0-3 record against winning teams. However, coach Mike McDaniel felt that his team didn't let the "narratives" become a distraction. Social media made it hard to ignore the criticism, but the team was able to focus on their job and responsibilities, and it paid off with a 22-20 victory against the Dallas Cowboys.

The Dolphins are now focused on winning their next two games against Baltimore and Buffalo, both winning teams. A win in either of these games or a Bills loss to New England in Week 17 would secure the division title for the Dolphins for the first time since 2008. Miami also has the opportunity to overtake the Ravens for the top spot in the conference and secure home-field advantage throughout the playoffs with a first-round bye.

Coach McDaniel emphasized the importance of playing the best football teams in December and January, and the Dolphins are fortunate to have the opportunity to play the Baltimore Ravens this week. The team's offense has struggled with game-winning drives this season but came through against Dallas, with Tua Tagovailoa orchestrating a game-winning drive that set up Jason Sanders' game-winning field goal.

The Dolphins have seen strong play from their linebackers and have recorded 52 sacks this season, a franchise-best. However, they need to improve their situational defense, as they have allowed late-game drives that resulted in scores in recent weeks.

Kicker Jason Sanders had a standout performance, nailing three kicks of 50-plus yards, including a career-long 57-yarder, as well as the game-winning 29-yarder as time expired. However, the Dolphins have struggled in the red zone, leaving points on the field due to inefficiencies in goal-line situations.

The Dolphins have also faced injuries, with several players leaving the game due to various injuries. Despite this, running back Raheem Mostert surpassed 1,000 yards rushing for the first time in his career, and Jaylen Waddle became the first Dolphins receiver to post three straight 1,000-yard seasons.

Looking ahead, the Dolphins are focused on their upcoming games against Baltimore and Buffalo, with the goal of securing the division title and home-field advantage throughout the playoffs. The team is prepared to face the challenges ahead and continue their pursuit of victory.