The Miami Dolphins are poised to capitalize on their opportunity as they face the New York Jets in a crucial regular-season finale on Sunday. With a current record of 8-8, the Dolphins are not only seeking a victory over the Jets, who stand at 4-12, but also require some assistance from other teams to secure their spot in the playoffs for the third consecutive year.

After struggling earlier in the season with a 2-6 record, the Dolphins have rallied impressively. “We came a long way. The team grew in different ways with people being in and out of the lineup," said wide receiver Jaylen Waddle amid the team's turnaround following a 20-3 victory over the Cleveland Browns last week. The Dolphins will likely rely on Tyler “Snoop” Huntley at quarterback again, as Tua Tagovailoa continues to recover from a hip injury.

The Dolphins' playoff hopes also hinge on the outcome of another game—specifically, they need the Denver Broncos to lose against the Kansas City Chiefs. Notably, the Chiefs are set to rest quarterback Patrick Mahomes and will field Carson Wentz instead.

On the flip side, Aaron Rodgers and the Jets are embracing the role of spoilers. As the Jets head toward an uncertain offseason, with both a new coach and general manager expected, this match may mark the legendary quarterback's last in the league. He is nearing a significant milestone, sitting at 499 career regular-season touchdown passes and needing just one more to become the fifth player in NFL history to achieve 500 TDs.

“So, just enjoying the last few moments with the guys, and we obviously want to put a good product on the field,” Rodgers remarked about the end of the season. This matchup is particularly critical for the Dolphins, who have lost eight of their last nine meetings against the Jets.

In terms of matchups, Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith will be one to watch, especially after his standout performances in recent games, while Miami's defense, ranked 3rd overall, strives to control the game.

Both teams face injury challenges; for the Dolphins, Waddle is expected to play despite a knee issue, while various Jets players, including Quinnen Williams and Chuck Clark, are uncertain due to injuries.

Miami’s aspirations to reach the postseason significantly depend on their performance against the Jets and an eye on the Denver game. A victory would not only secure their playoff berth but also see Coach Mike McDaniel achieve a historic sweep over both the Jets and Patriots for the first time since Don Shula in the early '70s.

As this season wraps up, the stakes couldn't be higher for both divisional rivals—one hoping for a playoff miracle, and the other aiming to end their troubling season on a high note.

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