Dolphins Break Streak with Lead Against Jets

The Miami Dolphins faced a challenging start to the NFL season, entering Week 7 without a single win. More troubling was their inability to hold a lead in any of their games so far. Before their matchup against the New York Jets, the Dolphins had taken 293 offensive snaps with no advantage on the scoreboard.

However, in a surprising turn of events, Miami took a 7-0 lead over the Jets on Sunday, marking a significant moment for the team. This change in fortunes was brought about by a 76-yard drive in seven plays, culminating in a 7-yard touchdown pass from quarterback Malik Willis to rookie Caleb Douglas.

The Dolphins had been the only team in the Super Bowl era to go five losses without holding a lead, a dubious distinction no team desires. The opening drive on a sunny day at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, did more than just end that streak; it provided a glimpse of improvement.

Miami’s struggles this season were not unexpected. In a strategic move, they traded or released several high-priced starters aiming for a reset by the 2026 season. This isn’t the first time the franchise has taken such an approach, with a similar strategy executed in 2019.

On the other side, the New York Jets entered the game with a 2-4 record, narrowly avoiding the basement of the AFC East due to Miami’s performance. The Jets quickly tied the game, leveling the score after Miami’s initial success.

Despite the setbacks, the Dolphins soon retook the lead in response, showing a determination to break out of their losing habits. They have now managed to lead in a game not once but twice this season, a welcome change for the team and their fans.

This match isn’t a battle for playoff places but rather a contest between two teams vying for top spots in next year’s NFL draft. It serves as a reflection of both teams’ ambitions and challenges this NFL season.