On January 5, 2025, the New York Jets hosted the Miami Dolphins at MetLife Stadium, concluding the turbulent 2024 NFL season for both teams. While the Dolphins entered the game vying for the last playoff spot, the Jets were playing for pride and the chance to spoil Miami's aspirations.
Kickoff was set for 4:25 p.m. ET, with the matchup broadcasted live on FOX. The stakes were high for Miami; they needed to defeat the Jets and rely on the Denver Broncos losing to secure the seventh Wild Card playoff position. The Dolphins, with Tyler Huntley substituting for the injured Tua Tagovailoa, held their playoff hopes at 8-8, needing every advantage they could muster.
On the other hand, the Jets entered the game with a disappointing 4-12 record, marking another rough season under the leadership of Aaron Rodgers. With speculation about both his future and Head Coach Jeff Ulbrich’s leadership swirling, the Jets were determined to put on one last impressive show. Interim HC Ulbrich commented, "When times are good and we are playing well... easy to be a great teammate. It is not easy to prepare when you are losing," underscoring the challenges the team faced.
Before the game, injury news swirled around both teams. The Jets had placed their Pro Bowl cornerback Sauce Gardner on injured reserve, alongside other key players unable to compete. Conversely, coach Mike McDaniel of the Dolphins confirmed concerns about his star receiver Tyreek Hill and budding star Jaylen Waddle, both of whom had been dealing with injuries but were active for the game. The absence of Tagovailoa was felt deeply, as he was the starting quarterback for much of the season.
Key matchups on the field included Aaron Rodgers, who was on the brink of history with his 500th career touchdown pass, and Huntley, who was proving to be a capable starter. Facing immense pressure, Huntley had performed admirably the week before, leading Miami to victory over the Cleveland Browns. On the Jets’ side, the pressure also mounted on Garrett Wilson, who was just three catches away from reaching the 100-catch milestone, something only one other Jet had achieved before him.
The opening moments of the game set the tone. After both teams exchanged struggles, it was Miami who appeared to build momentum through solid defensive plays. Yet, it was the Jets who struck first, capitalizing on favorable field position created by their defense.
The matchup saw the Jets and Dolphins trading blows amid pivotal moments, with Rodgers finally throwing his historic 500th touchdown pass to tight end Tyler Conklin with just minutes left before halftime. Rodgers exclaimed, "I'm just grateful for every moment and every player who's been part of this ride," celebrating the milestone with his teammates.
Despite the Jets taking the lead, Miami retaliated with impressive drives, showcasing Huntley’s growing confidence as he connected with his targets downfield. Not to be overlooked, the Dolphins’ running game was explosive, with De'Von Achane chipping away at the Jets’ defense and creating cracks for playmakers like Hill and Waddle.
With halftime approaches, Coach Ulbrich expressed optimism for the second half, reminding his players of the importance of finishing strong, both for pride and for the upcoming offseason. "This is more than just this game. It’s about who you are going to be moving forward," Ulbrich encouraged.
Entering the second half, it was clear Miami was feeling the pressure. The Dolphins needed to win this game, and every play felt magnified as they sought to secure their playoff dreams. Huntley managed to maintain composure, completing several key passes and controlling the tempo of the game.
Throughout the second half, the stakes intensified, with both teams delivering impressive performances. Each squad's defensive unit dug deep, with the Jets attempting to make it difficult for Miami's offense to find their rhythm. Yet, tied at times, the game showcased why the NFL remains unpredictable and electric.
Despite the Jets' efforts, the outcome tilted toward Miami as the clock winded down. The final whistle blew, with Miami earned the needed victory to advance to the playoffs. For the Jets, there was relief and reflection—a season dismantled and questions loom over their offseason. Coach Ulbrich said afterward, "It’s been challenging, no doubt. But it’s also been gratifying to see how the players have held their heads high, wanting to succeed at every turn."
Looking forward, the offseason promises change, transparency, and potential reinforcements for the New York Jets. With questions about Rodgers' tenure and the future direction of the franchise swirling, attention will turn to how the organization addresses its needs moving forward.