Tyler Huntley to lead Dolphins as Tua Tagovailoa sits out against Jets

In the United States, the Miami Dolphins are facing a crucial game against the New York Jets with their playoff hopes on the line. On January 3, 2025, head coach Mike McDaniel announced that starting quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was ruled out for this must-win match due to a lingering hip injury. This marks the second consecutive game that Tagovailoa will miss as he attempts to recover from an injury that has hampered his performance throughout the season. As a result, Tyler Huntley is set to step into the starting quarterback role, having previously led the Dolphins to a victory against the Cleveland Browns. Tagovailoa's absence creates significant pressure on Huntley, who has shown promising form despite being a backup. In the last game he played, Huntley completed over 80% of his passes and contributed both through the air and on the ground. Despite his recent success, the Dolphins' playoff aspirations depend not just on their performance against the Jets but also on the outcome of the game between the Denver Broncos and Kansas City Chiefs. The Dolphins can secure a playoff spot if they win against the Jets and Denver loses. Tagovailoa's injury has become a persistent issue this season, as he has been sidelined multiple times due to health concerns, including a concussion earlier in the year. Head coach McDaniel elaborated that despite the hip being intact without fractures, Tagovailoa’s condition is more about muscle-related problems, which inhibit his ability to play effectively and safely. McDaniel emphasized that it is crucial to manage Tagovailoa's health comprehensively, particularly to avoid any serious injuries in the long run. As the season draws to a close, the Dolphins find themselves in a precarious position, needing to secure a victory to keep their playoff hopes alive. If they succeed and obtain help from the Chiefs defeating the Broncos, they would secure a spot in the postseason, potentially leading to a matchup against the Buffalo Bills. This final game is not only pivotal for the Dolphins’ playoff chances but also highlights the ongoing struggle for Tagovailoa to maintain his health and performance consistency throughout his career.