The Dolphins are almost assured of making the playoffs as a AFC Wild Card team — FiveThirtyEight gives Miami a 92% chance of earning a postseason berth after yesterday’s win over the Bills — and quarterback Ryan Tannehill could potentially return in time for a Super Bowl run, according to Adam Beasley of the Miami Herald. Tannehill has shed his cast from his injured left leg, and there is “real reason for optimism” that the Dolphins signal-caller could come back “at some point” during the tournament.
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Miami’s orginal plan was to consider Tannehill for Week 17 against the Patriots, but the Dolphins could clinch a playoff berth without beating New England — should the Broncos lose to the Chiefs tonight — so that would seemingly provide an extra week of rest while Miami prepares for what would be its first playoff game in eight years. However, news last week painted a grim picture for a Tannehill return, with his MCL injury being more severe than initially believed.
Backup quarterback Matt Moore has played well in two starts in relief of Tannehill, throwing six touchdowns against two interceptions while leading the Dolphins to consecutive victories. Still, Miami would surely prefer to turn back to Tannehill if he can return for a Wild Card weekend matchup against either the Steelers (the likely AFC North winner) or the Texans.
Sam Robinson contributed to this post.
I’d stick with Moore.
Cause you’re an idiot and have no clue about football
Matt Moore went from backup to player of the week.. the dude is better than tannehill.
Uh… What?…
Uh Matt Moore has looked pretty decent. It’s well known that he’s one of the best back ups (playing ability wise) in the NFL
Excellent backup, he’s just not gonna give you the upside Tannehill would give against top teams like the Chiefs or Steelers
Really? Start Moore over Tannehill. I’m sure Pittsburgh or Huston would hope for the same thing.
Is that a threat?
16 of 30 against the bills and ajayi is reason we won. tannehill is much better although the running game would be key in beating the steelers again.
That would be ideal to get back Tannehill for the playoffs however he definitely needs to have that knee stable because him being hobbled doesn’t do them any good! Obviously Moore is solid but some of his deficiencies are obvious in terms of arm strength and driving the ball! We’ll see what happens but the Dolphins have shown that they don’t rely on one position and have playmakers al over the field as long as the QB can get them the ball they can make something happen!
I continue to be amazed by the teams that have two decent -good quarterbacks on their roster yet the Jets can’t seem to find ONE!!!!