It wasn’t pretty, but the Miami Dolphins came away with a victory over the Las Vegas Raiders in Week 11, 20-13. It was a sloppy game offensively for Miami, who turned the ball over three times, but Tua Tagovailoa and company were able to do just enough to help the team get their seventh win of the season.
Currently atop the AFC East, the Dolphins are on track to win their first division title since the 2008 season when they were led by Chad Pennington at quarterback. While the offense may not have clicked as well as they have become accustomed to, Miami has to feel good heading into Week 12.
They have a chance to bury a division rival in the New York Jets, who are entering the game 4-6. A lot was made when their meeting later in the season is when Aaron Rodgers was aiming to return to the field, but there may not be much for him to return to if the Dolphins handle business on Black Friday.
One reason Mike McDaniel should be feeling good is that his defense is starting to come alive. A big reason for that is the presence of star cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who made his debut with the team in Week 9 against the New England Patriots.
Ramsey, who was acquired in the offseason from the Los Angeles Rams, was expected to fill a huge void in the team’s secondary, upgrading an underwhelming defense in 2022. His debut was delayed because of a knee injury suffered in training camp, but he has made an immediate impact.
“He’s the best corner in the league, man,” star wide receiver Tyreek Hill said, per AP’s Alanis Thames. “The way he just laid out for his team just really shows how he cares about his brothers.”
Ramsey recorded two interceptions against the Raiders and two passes defended. The second interception came in the end zone and helped seal the victory for his team despite getting banged up catching the pass.
Even McDaniel was in awe of the plays Ramsey made. In his post-game presser, he spoke about how difficult each one was and hopes that teams continue throwing the ball his way to keep making plays.
In the three games Ramsey has played against the Patriots, Kansas City Chiefs and Raiders, the Dolphins have given up only 44 points. That is an impressive showing for a team that has been below average when it comes to point prevention this season.
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