The Miami Dolphins managed to grind out a pivotal victory against the Cleveland Browns this Sunday, even though early on, it seemed like neither team quite had the upper hand. The first half of the game was a back-and-forth affair with field goals being the primary scoring method, leaving many fans questioning if the matchup was worth staying tuned for.

However, as the playoff race heats up, this win proved crucial. With the season’s final week fast approaching, the Dolphins find themselves needing to secure a victory against the Jets in New York, paired with hoping for a Broncos loss to the Chiefs, to keep their playoff dreams alive.

Sunday’s game saw some standout performances that kept Miami’s heartbeat strong in this playoff race. At the helm of the offense, Tyler Huntley displayed poise in a game that could have gone either way early, especially when it came to offsetting early penalties that disrupted the Dolphins’ rhythm.

Huntley’s efficiency was notable, completing passes with precision and only missing the mark on three occasions through three quarters. In a critical moment, he showcased his versatility by rushing for a touchdown that gave Miami all the points they would need to outlast the Browns.

Huntley not only avoided costly errors but also led the team in rushing, amassing over 50 yards on the ground. His late-game heroics came into the spotlight when he connected with Jonnu Smith for a game-secure touchdown in the fourth quarter.

Defensively, Tyrel Dodson was a force to reckon with on the field. Despite a momentary lapse in judgment resulting in a penalty for removing his helmet after an interception, Dodson’s hustle couldn’t be overlooked.

His keen ability to anticipate offensive plays saw him in on countless tackles, establishing an on-field presence that was felt from whistle to whistle. With 15 tackles recorded against Cleveland, Dodson made a compelling case for a contract extension as he approaches free agency.

Meanwhile, Tyreek Hill demonstrated just how impactful a solid week of practice can be. Operating without the usual dynamic duo of Jaylen Waddle, Hill still managed to confound the Browns’ defensive schemes with his knack for creating space. Appearing more like his true self, Hill collected over 100 yards, achieving this milestone for only the third time this season.

Jordyn Brooks, on the other hand, continued to be a defensive anchor for the Dolphins. His season-long consistency was evident again on Sunday as he showcased the kind of physicality that’s become his trademark.

Brooks made life challenging for Browns quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson, disrupting his passing lanes and making pivotal open-field tackles. In a game that mattered immensely for Miami, Brooks was instrumental, reinforcing his status as the standout linebacker on Miami’s roster.

These performances are the backbone of Miami’s late-season push, proving that when it comes down to the wire, the Dolphins indeed have the pieces to continue their playoff pursuit.