The Miami Dolphins‘ rollercoaster 2024 NFL season is reaching a critical juncture as the team fights to keep its playoff hopes alive. Despite starting the year with a dismal 2-6 record, Miami remains in the race for the AFC’s final Wild Card spot heading into Week 17.
However, their fate is no longer entirely in their hands, and a series of results must go their way to secure postseason contention.
Bengals’ Win Keeps Dolphins’ Dreams Alive
Heading into the weekend, the Dolphins were two games behind the Denver Broncos, who held the final Wild Card position. A Broncos win against the Cincinnati Bengals on Saturday night could have crushed Miami‘s chances before they even took the field on Sunday.
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Fortunately for the Dolphins, the Bengals delivered a dramatic 30-24 overtime victory, keeping Miami’s playoff aspirations intact.
Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins’ star wide receiver, wasted no time rallying his team after the Bengals‘ win.
Taking to social media, he shared a clear message: “Let’s take care of business guys.” Earlier in the day, Hill had openly rooted for Cincinnati, posting the Bengals‘ signature “#WHODEY” chant in a show of support.
What Miami Needs to Make the Playoffs
For the Dolphins to claim the final AFC playoff spot, several scenarios need to play out over the next two weeks. First and foremost, Miami must win their remaining games against the Cleveland Browns and the New York Jets. Additionally, they’ll need help from other teams:
- The Broncos must lose to the Kansas City Chiefs.
- The Indianapolis Colts need to drop at least one of their two remaining games, either against the New York Giants or the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Complicating matters, Miami may need to secure at least one of their wins without starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who is listed as doubtful for Sunday’s game against Cleveland.
Hill’s Comments Draw Mixed Reactions
While Hill‘s motivational message to his teammates was intended to galvanize the squad, his public support for the Bengals sparked debate among fans. Some appreciated his transparency and team-first mentality, while others criticized the optics of rooting for another franchise so openly.
Regardless of the controversy, Hill‘s focus is on helping the Dolphins secure a spot in the postseason, an achievement that once seemed unattainable after their poor start.
With two games left and their playoff hopes hanging by a thread, Miami must capitalize on their opportunity and hope the stars align in their favor.
The Dolphins‘ fight for the postseason is far from over, but Tyreek Hill’s message has made one thing clear: this team is still in the game, and they’re not giving up without a fight.