The Miami Dolphins enter Monday Night Football against the New York Jets desperately seeking their first victory of the 2025 season. Both teams sit at 0-3, making this a crucial divisional matchup that could define the trajectory of their campaigns. Despite their struggles, the Dolphins possess enough talent to make a statement against a vulnerable Jets defense. Here are three bold predictions for Miami's performance in this Monday night showdown.
Tua Tagovailoa Throws for 350+ Yards and Three Touchdowns
Tua Tagovailoa has shown flashes of his potential despite Miami's winless start, completing 62 of 89 passes for 575 yards with five touchdowns and four interceptions through three games. While his 87.1 passer rating reflects inconsistency, the matchup against New York presents an ideal opportunity for a breakout performance.
The Jets defense ranks 22nd in total yards allowed per game (340.3) and has surrendered nine passing touchdowns this season. Their secondary has been particularly vulnerable, allowing opposing quarterbacks to find success through the air. Tagovailoa's quick release and precision in the short-to-intermediate passing game should exploit the Jets' coverage weaknesses, especially with weapons like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle creating separation.
Monday night's prime-time stage provides the perfect backdrop for Tagovailoa to silence critics who question his ability to lead the Dolphins' offense. With improved protection from his offensive line and receivers finding their rhythm, expect the Alabama product to deliver his most complete performance of the season. The combination of increased volume and efficiency against a struggling Jets pass defense sets up perfectly for Tagovailoa to eclipse 350 yards while finding the end zone three times.
De'Von Achane Rushes for 150+ Yards and Records Two Total Touchdowns
De'Von Achane has been one of Miami's few bright spots in 2025, averaging 4.9 yards per carry with 147 rushing yards through three games. His explosive speed and elusiveness make him a constant threat to break big plays, as evidenced by his 55-yard rushing performance against Indianapolis in Week 1.
The Jets run defense has been suspect, ranking 23rd by allowing 133 rushing yards per game and surrendering three rushing touchdowns. Their inability to consistently stop opposing ground attacks creates a massive opportunity for Achane to showcase his game-breaking ability. The third-year back from Texas A&M has proven capable of dominating when given sufficient touches, as shown by his 203-carry, 907-yard campaign in 2024.
Monday night represents the perfect storm for Achane to deliver a signature performance. The Dolphins' offensive line should find success creating running lanes against New York's front seven, while Achane's receiving ability out of the backfield adds another dimension to his scoring potential. Expect Miami's coaching staff to feature their dynamic playmaker heavily, leading to a monster performance that includes both rushing and receiving touchdowns. His combination of vision, speed, and versatility makes him the ideal candidate to exploit the Jets' defensive vulnerabilities.
Miami's Defense Forces Four Turnovers and Holds Jets Under 200 Total Yards
Despite ranking poorly in several defensive categories this season, the Dolphins defense has shown the ability to create game-changing moments when healthy. Miami's defensive struggles have been magnified by poor third-down efficiency, allowing 52.6% of opponent conversions. However, facing a Jets offense that has managed just 69 points through three games presents an opportunity for redemption.
The Jets' offensive limitations are well-documented, with quarterback uncertainty between Justin Fields and Tyrod Taylor creating instability under center. New York has struggled to establish rhythm in their passing attack, ranking 31st in passing yards per game at 144.7. Their ground game, while more respectable at 127 yards per game, lacks the consistency needed to sustain long drives against a desperate Miami defense.
Monday night's divisional rivalry atmosphere should energize the Dolphins defense playing at Hard Rock Stadium. Players like Jaelan Phillips, Bradley Chubb, and the secondary led by Minkah Fitzpatrick have the talent to capitalize on Jets' offensive miscues. Expect Miami's pass rush to generate consistent pressure while the secondary creates opportunities for interceptions. The combination of a struggling Jets offense and a Dolphins defense motivated to prove doubters wrong creates the perfect recipe for a dominant defensive performance that swings momentum decisively in Miami's favor.
The stakes couldn't be higher for both franchises, with the loser facing an 0-4 start that historically makes playoff contention nearly impossible. For the Dolphins, this Monday Night Football clash represents more than just a divisional game – it's an opportunity to salvage their season and validate the talent that made them playoff contenders in previous years.
