Now or Never for the Miami Dolphins

Originally posted on Dolphins Talk | By Chris Oliver | Last updated Sep 29, 2025 9:40 AM ET

Now or Never for the Miami Dolphins

Miami opened the season 0–3, a disappointing start for a team that was expected to compete. They have speed on offense, one of the most creative offensive minds in the league in Mike McDaniel, and playmakers all over the field. But the same old questions are starting to surface again. Can they win tough games? Can they finish a season strong? Can they rise to the moment when the pressure is on?

For years, this team has been right on the edge of contention. But being close doesn’t mean much when the final results don’t back it up. Collapses have too often followed flashy wins in September and October in December. It’s not just about talent anymore; it’s about identity. Currently, that identity is unclear.

At times, they look like a team capable of competing with anyone. Other times, they can’t get out of their own way. The inconsistency is what makes this stretch of games so critical.

Fortunately for the Dolphins, the upcoming schedule gives them a real chance to get back on track. Their next five opponents, at least on paper, are not among the league’s elite. These are matchups they should win. While the rest of the league won’t be paying much attention to these games, they could end up being the most important five-game stretch of the Dolphins’ season. Dominating lesser opponents is what good teams do.

There’s no room left for slow starts, sloppy turnovers, or letdowns in the fourth quarter. The Dolphins have to start stacking wins, building confidence, and finding their rhythm as a team.

There’s also a sense of urgency that extends beyond just this season. Tua Tagovailoa is in a pivotal year. There are still questions about whether he’s the quarterback who can carry a team deep into the playoffs. Mike McDaniel has proven to be innovative and creative, but even the most talented play-callers are judged by wins, not highlights.

If this team is going to break through, it needs to happen soon because no roster stays intact forever, and this current core won’t be around indefinitely.

If they can take care of business in these upcoming games, everything is still in front of them. The season isn’t lost. But if they can’t, then the noise will only get louder, and the doubt will only grow stronger. This team doesn’t need to be perfect, but it does need to show some heart. Some fire. Some toughness.

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

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