Miami Dolphins Recap on Win Vs. New York Jets
By Andrew Gibbs
The 5-6 Miami Dolphins came into the game off of a loss to the Carolina Panthers. The New York Jets also own a 5-6 record. In the thick of the wild card hunt, this is a must-win game for both teams.
First Quarter: Miami’s first drive looked great, up until the missed field goal by Caleb Sturgis from 41 yards out. The Dolphins got the ball back after a New York punt, but turned it over on downs when they went for it on 4th and short. Thankfully for the ‘Phins, the Jets have not had any success on offense either.
Score after one: Miami Dolphins 0 – New York Jets 0
Dec 1, 2013; East Rutherford, NJ, USA; New York Jets corner back Dee Milliner (27) breaks up a pass intended for Miami Dolphins wide receiver Brian Hartline (82) during the first quarter of a game at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Second Quarter: The Dolphins once again drove into Jets territory, but this time it was a Ryan Tannehill interception that gave the ball back to the gang green. They held them to yet another 3 & out, and Miami had another chance to put up the game’s first points. They squandered the opportunity to yet another turnover on downs.
The Jets had just one first down at this point in the game to Miami’s 13.
After another 3 & out from the Jets, the Dolphins finally scored on a 34 yard field goal. On the ensuing Jets possession, Geno Smith was intercepted by the former Raven Dannell Ellerbe. The Dolphins converted the turnover into three quick points before half.
Score at half: Miami Dolphins 6 – New York Jets 0
Third Quarter: After a couple of punts, the Dolphins forced another turnover, this time on a fumble at midfield. Two plays later, it was Brian Hartline for the touchdown to extend this Dolphins lead. The Jets were able to respond with their first good-looking drive of the game after Geno Smith was benched for Matt Sims. They got into the red zone but settled for a field goal.
The Dolphins drove right back down the field for another touchdown. Tannehill found Wallace on a short pass that went 28 yards for the touchdown. Geno Smith finished the game with 40 percent completion, 29 passing yards, and an INT.
Score after three: Miami Dolphins 20 – New York Jets 3
Fourth Quarter: Neither team managed a first down for the first three drives of the quarter. The Dolphins ran lots of time off the clock on their second possession of the fourth quarter, and drove straight into the red zone. They had to settle for a field goal, but at this point the clock was their only enemy.
The Jets were desperate for some quick points, and it showed on a Matt Simms interception by Brent Grimes.
Final Score: Miami Dolphins 23 – New York Jets 3
Game Balls:
Brian Hartline had nine catches for 127 yards and a touchdown. He added yards after the catch to extend short passing plays for big gains.
Olivier Vernon lead the Dolphins in total tackles with 10. He also had three sacks and two tackles for a loss.
Ryan Tannehill threw for 331 yards and two passing touchdowns, one to Hartline and one to Mike Wallace. He was only sacked one time, and led his team to a big victory on the road over the rival NY Jets.