Miami Dolphins Earn First Win: 6 Key Takeaways vs. Jets
The Miami Dolphins traveled to MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, and delivered a strong team effort to earn their first win of the 2026 season.
My keys that contributed to the victory, as well as some continued challenges:
1) Malik Willis Has His Best Game of the Season
Willis was decisive and confident, making accurate throws even under the Jets’ blitz packages.
Willis finished with 14 completions on 21 attempts, 208 yards, and a 130.7 quarterback rating.
He also used his legs at critical times to convert third- and fourth-down situations, finishing with 8 rushes for 37 yards.
2) The Dolphins Owned the Time of Possession
Miami controlled the clock, keeping the Jets’ offense on the bench. The Dolphins held the ball for 34 minutes and 36 seconds compared to the Jets’ 25 minutes and 24 seconds.
The long drives showed a great mix of run and pass, and Miami was excellent at converting on third down.
3) Ollie Gordon II Continues His Strong Play
Gordon was again extremely effective, delivering powerful runs, breaking tackles, and showing explosiveness in the open field, resulting in a 103-yard effort.
When the Dolphins needed him most, he made strong runs on Miami’s final drive to keep the clock moving and the Jets off the field.
Gordon is making the most of his opportunity while De’Von Achane rehabs a torn ACL.
4) Defense Started Slow but Delivered When It Counted
On the Jets’ first couple of drives, it appeared that they were going to score at will against Miami.
When rookie Michael Taaffe intercepted Geno Smith on the Jets’ second drive, the momentum shifted in the Dolphins’ favor.
5) Greg Dulcich Had a Monster First Half but Disappeared in the Second Half
Dulcich finished the game with 5 catches for 86 yards.
He made clutch receptions at opportune times and extended drives with third-down conversions.
For inexplicable reasons, though, he wasn’t targeted in the second half.
6) Caleb Douglas Is for Real
The rookie wide receiver returned from injury with a vengeance, scoring two touchdowns, both things of beauty. His fourth-quarter score helped seal the game for Miami.
It was the Jets, but that makes it that much sweeter.