5 Keys to Victory and a Rooting Guide for Dolphins Fans

As the Miami Dolphins (7-8) prepare to face the Cleveland Browns (3-12) in a Week 17 showdown, their playoff hopes hang by a thread. With slim postseason aspirations still alive, here are five keys to victory for Miami and a rooting guide to help fans navigate the weekend’s critical games.

5 Keys to Victory Against the Browns

1. Exploit Cleveland’s Offensive Limitations

The Browns enter this game with Dorian Thompson-Robinson as their starting quarterback, a raw rookie still finding his footing in the NFL. Cleveland’s offense has struggled mightily, averaging just 13 points over their last two games and missing key weapons like Nick Chubb, David Njoku, and Cedric Tillman. Miami’s defense, ranked top 10 against the run and top 12 in passing yards allowed, must take advantage by forcing early three-and-outs and capitalizing on turnovers.

2. Control the Elements

With rain and gusty winds expected, ball security will be paramount. Tua Tagovailoa and the offense must focus on short, high-percentage passes and lean on the ground game with De’Von Achane and Raheem Mostert to mitigate the weather’s impact. Special teams will also need to account for challenging wind conditions during punts and field goal attempts.

3. Neutralize Myles Garrett

Even in a disappointing season, Browns star Myles Garrett remains a game-wrecker. Miami’s offensive line, led by Terron Armstead (if healthy), will need to provide Tua with adequate protection. Double-teams and quick releases will be critical to keeping Garrett from disrupting Miami’s rhythm.

4. Dominate on Third Down

The Dolphins’ defense has excelled on third down, ranking third in the league. This strength must shine against a Cleveland offense that has struggled to sustain drives. Offensively, Miami must convert their own third downs, particularly in adverse weather conditions, to keep the Browns’ defense on the field and wear them down.

5. Stay Mentally Engaged Regardless of Playoff Scenarios

If results from Saturday’s games (notably Chargers vs. Broncos) eliminate Miami from contention before kickoff, the team must still approach this game with focus. Finishing the season strong and reaching .500 is a point of pride that could build momentum heading into 2025.

A Rooting Guide for Dolphins Fans

The Miami Dolphins’ playoff hopes are holding on by a thread. After improving to 7-8 with a crucial 29-17 win over the San Francisco 49ers, Miami has just an 8-10% chance of making the playoffs, depending on the simulator you consult. While the Dolphins must win out to stay alive, they’ll also need help from other teams in Week 17. Here’s a rooting guide for fans hoping Miami can somehow keep their postseason dream alive:

1. Chargers vs. Patriots: Root for New England

The Chargers (9-6) currently hold the No. 6 seed in the AFC, making them one of Miami’s primary obstacles. While LA’s favorable remaining schedule makes losses unlikely, the Dolphins need the Patriots to pull off a massive upset. If the Chargers finish 9-8, Miami could leapfrog them via a better conference record. It’s a long shot, but stranger things have happened.

• Game Info: Saturday, Dec. 28, 1 p.m. ET on NFL Network

2. Broncos vs. Bengals: Root for Cincinnati

The Broncos (9-6) occupy the No. 7 seed, and a loss would be a huge boost to Miami’s chances. Denver’s matchup with Cincinnati is pivotal, as the Bengals (7-8) are fighting for their own playoff survival. The Dolphins have tiebreakers over Cincinnati, so fans can confidently root for the Bengals without risking any scenarios where Miami gets edged out.

The Broncos would also need to lose their Week 18 game against Kansas City, but with the Chiefs having already clinched the No. 1 seed, they may rest their starters, making this a murky scenario.

• Game Info: Saturday, Dec. 28, 4:30 p.m. ET on NFL Network

3. Colts vs. Giants: Root for New York

The Colts (8-7-1) sit just ahead of the Dolphins in the standings, so a loss to the Giants would help Miami climb the ladder. While the Giants are eliminated from playoff contention, they still have the opportunity to play spoiler, and that’s exactly what Dolphins fans need them to do.

• Game Info: Sunday, Dec. 29, 1 p.m. ET

Why It Matters

Winning out would only boost Miami’s playoff chances to 19%, so the rooting guide is as critical as the Dolphins’ performance on the field. With the fifth-easiest remaining schedule, the path is manageable but still dependent on several unlikely outcomes. Fans will need to keep a close eye on these games, knowing that every upset could be the difference between watching from home and extending the season.

Final Thoughts

The Dolphins control their fate on Sunday in Cleveland but will also need help from around the league to keep their postseason dreams alive. Regardless of the playoff implications, Miami has an opportunity to showcase resilience and finish the season on a high note. For Dolphins fans, Sunday is all about keeping the faith—both on the field and across the league.