The Jaguars play in-state rival the Miami Dolphins on Sunday
By Kathy Clark
Despite their 4-10 record this season, the Jacksonville Jaguars hope they can put a dent in the Miami Dolphins playoff hopes this season.
The Dolphins are currently 7-7 and second in the AFC East. They have a very slim chance to make the playoffs if they win and a number of other teams lose. In other words, they are playing to make the playoffs even though a miracle is needed. The Jacksonville Jaguars are playing because the NFL requires teams to play all 16 games on their schedule.
The Dolphins rank 29th in the NFL in yards gained from scrimmage. To continue, they rank 30th in net yards allowed on defense. They rank 24th in passing yards allowed and 31 in rushing yards allowed.
The statistics are not impressive.
Armando Salguero of the Miami Herald wrote that the Dolphins have obtained special permission to wear throwback uniforms and helmet logos.
In addition, they will be using end zone logos from the good old days when they played in the OrangeBowl.
This seems like a great way to increase enthusiasm and interest in an essentially meaningless game.
The teams have many common issues and changes will be made. Both head coaches and staffs are on the hot seat due to disappointing seasons. Blake Bortles and Ryan Tannehill, the Dolphins quarterback, are on the bubble and it’s likely they will wear different NFL uniforms next season.
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Injuries have been a problem for both teams.
Pundits expect a low scoring game. The best hope for both teams is a strong running game. According to Jay Johnson, Kenyon Drake starts at running back for the Dolphins.
"“Coach Adam Gates will look to get creative with Drake as the Dolphins make a playoff push. That especially could spell trouble for Todd Wash who tends to struggle against savvy offensive minds,” added."
The prior statement is not a ringing endorsement of defensive coordinator Todd Wash. The Jaguars, whose defense ranks sixth in the NFL in total yards allowed, should be able to stop the Dolphins, ranked 29 in net yards from scrimmage.
The Jaguars running game should have a banner day against a team ranked 31st in the NFL in rushing yards allowed. On paper and despite the won-loss records this should be a Jaguars victory. On the other hand, most writers and pundits are picking the Dolphins.
Jacksonville needs the next two victories to gain some much-needed momentum heading into the 2019 season. Will the offense find its way early and not have to play from behind like it has most of the season?
I am hoping for a look at some younger players but also a Jaguars victory. GO JAGUARS!