Miami Dolphins Face Another Tough Test Against the Vikings

Originally posted on Dolphins Talk | By Chris Oliver | Last updated Oct 3, 2026 10:09 PM ET

Miami Dolphins Face Another Tough Test Against the Vikings

At 0–3, it’s easy to look at the record and conclude this season has already gone off the rails. The Dolphins have certainly had their share of problems, but the first three weeks have also offered reasons for optimism, particularly on defense, and Sunday’s matchup with the Minnesota Vikings gives Miami another chance to show that this new team under head coach Jeff Hafley is making progress.

The biggest issue has been the offense. Miami has struggled to consistently move the football, put points on the board, and sustain drives. Quarterback Malik Willis has shown flashes of ability, particularly with his mobility, but the offense has lacked the consistency needed to keep an NFL defense uncomfortable for four quarters.

The Dolphins have also struggled to finish drives.

Against good teams, opportunities have to turn into touchdowns or, at the very least, points. Miami has left too many chances on the field, making it hard to overcome mistakes. Some encouraging signs have emerged, especially on defense.

Miami’s defense looked considerably more physical against Kansas City. The Dolphins did a better job against the run and showed the kind of toughness that Coach Hafley wants his defense to develop. Plenty of work remains, but the improvement was noticeable.

Unfortunately, the Dolphins also lost one of their most dangerous offensive weapons when De’Von Achane suffered a knee injury. Achane’s speed can change a game with one touch, so replacing that production will be a major challenge. Miami will need other players to step up and find ways to create explosive plays.

The Dolphins travel to Minnesota to face a Vikings team that enters the game undefeated. Minnesota has played solid football and presents problems on both sides of the ball.

The Dolphins will have to find ways to attack Minnesota without becoming predictable. The Dolphins will need to take advantage of opportunities when they appear. The running game will also have to help take some pressure off the quarterback.

The Vikings will be without star receiver Justin Jefferson, which takes away one of the biggest weapons in their offense. That gives the Dolphins an opportunity to make Minnesota work for every yard and force other players to beat them.

A victory in Minnesota won’t erase the problems from the first three weeks, but it could build confidence and momentum. The Dolphins need to play smart, physical football, finish drives, and avoid giving Minnesota easy opportunities. Most importantly, they need to finally finish a game on top. For a team searching for its identity, Sunday could be an important step in determining exactly what these Dolphins are going to be.

This article first appeared on Dolphins Talk and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: