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The Real Reasons The Miami Dolphins Are Still Alive

Originally posted on Dolphins Talk | By Dorian Sims | Last updated Dec 3, 2025 1:08 PM ET

The Real Reasons The Miami Dolphins Are Still Alive

If the Miami Dolphins have any pulse left in this turbulent season, it’s because a handful of players have stepped up and become the quiet saviors of the team. And it begins with the most electrifying player on the roster: De’Von Achane. His vision, burst, and effortless shiftiness have become one of the few consistent bright spots on an offense that has struggled to find rhythm.

When the Dolphins need a spark, Achane is the one capable of flipping field position or turning a stalled drive into a scoring threat with a single cut. He has become both the engine and the emotional heartbeat of this offense.

Surprisingly, the tight end room has also transformed into one of Miami’s most reliable units on offense. Darren Waller’s resurgence has been nothing short of remarkable. After many questioned whether he could return to form, he has not only answered those doubts—he has erased them.

His production in the few games he has played this year has given Miami a dependable option in the middle of the field.

But he isn’t doing it alone. Julian Hill, once known more for costly penalties than consistent play, has taken noticeable strides. His discipline, blocking, and situational awareness have grown tremendously, giving the Dolphins a legitimate in-line asset. Greg Dulcich has quietly filled the role of dependable depth, answering the call whenever his number is dialed and showing he can make some contested catches.

But perhaps most remarkable of all is the addition of “tight end” Daniel Brunskill. While he’s actually just a 6th offensive lineman, I can’t exclude him from the equation.

And with that, the offensive line as a whole has shown meaningful progress during the team’s recent win streak. While far from perfect, the group has played with more cohesion, especially in the run game. However, outside of a great run game, it hasn’t amounted to much. Miami needs more from its quarterbacks and from receivers not named Jaylen Waddle. Explosive plays have evaporated, timing has been off, and the passing game lacks the reliability needed to complement Achane’s emergence.

On the defensive side, however, Miami has found its true identity. Jordan Brooks is playing at an elite level, flying sideline to sideline with instincts that make him the anchor of this unit. But it’s the collective buy-in that has elevated this group. Bradley Chubb and Minkah Fitzpatrick have not only produced on the field but have also taken on leadership roles that stabilize the defense. Their experience, communication, and ability to make timely plays have been invaluable.

This was once a group that let opposing running backs feast. That problem has been flipped on its head. Miami has made stopping the run a priority, and when it forces opponents into predictable passing situations, this defense comes alive.

Yes, the Dolphins have faced subpar competition outside of Buffalo—but the defense is carrying the team regardless of the opponent.

And they’ll need to keep doing so against a Jets team that everyone seems content to overlook. New York plays physically, plays angry, and would love nothing more than to derail Miami’s faint playoff aspirations. If the Dolphins want to keep that hope alive, their saviors—on both sides of the ball—will have to shine once again.

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

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