3 keys to a Jets victory over the Miami Dolphins in Sunday’s season finale
Skylar Thompson will get the start for the Dolphins on Sunday with Tua Tagovailoa and Teddy Bridgewater both out. While Thompson was thrust into action after Bridgewater left the game in October, the Dolphins will certainly have him better prepared for what the Jets will do defensively. Also, expect the Dolphins to put an emphasis on running the ball with...
1. PRESSURE SKYLAR
Skylar Thompson will get the start for the Dolphins on Sunday with Tua Tagovailoa (concussion) and Teddy Bridgewater (dislocated pinky) both out. Gang Green faced Thompson in Week 5 and sacked him twice and pressured him into errant throws during the 40-17 win. While Thompson was thrust into action after Bridgewater left the game in October, the Dolphins will certainly have him better prepared for what the Jets will do defensively. It will be up to Quinnen Williams and the rest of the D- line to get pressure on Thompson consistently. Also, expect the Dolphins to put an emphasis on running the ball with Thompson under center.
2. GET FLACCO IN RHYTHM EARLY
The Jets passing game has been lackluster during the last month, no matter who has been under center. Now Joe Flacco is back under center. He will face a Dolphins secondary that is 27th in passing yards allowed (240.2). Gang Green has gone eight quarters without scoring a TD. This game is where offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur needs to display all the tricks in his bag. The offense, especially recently, has been predictable with their running plays to “Bam” Knight and passing formations. Yes, White has been compromised because of his rib injury, but there needs to be some creativity to help the offense reach the end zone.
3. IMPROVED O-LINE PLAY
The Jets have had a revolving carousel on their offensive line. It also doesn’t help that the available players haven’t performed up to expectations. Gang Green will be without three offensive line starters against the Dolphins (George Fant, Duane Brown and Nate Herbig). Also, Laurent Duvernay-Tardif (knee) is questionable and will be a game-time decision. If the Jets are going to get their running game back on track and keep Flacco upright, the O-line needs to play a significant role.
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