It’s not secret that the Miami Dolphins have often struggled with cold weather games during the Mike Mcdaniel era. after some recent comments from the Dolphins head coach however, things could be changing for the better in the colder months for the Fins.
Mike Mcdaniel has not really had a positive 2025 season. After all, he started the year 1-6. Still, he now has the Dolphins at 6-7 and with a strong close to the season, could have them in the playoff picture depending on how other games shake out.
The one thing that Mcdaniel has to achieve however is winning games in cold weather. That has been the big failure for the Dolphins and until they solve, fans will worry about their performances in key games. And yet, with a win over the Jets yesterday afternoon, the Dolphins accomplished they haven’t been able to do during Mcdaniel’s tenure: win a game in the cold. And the way they did it is a formula more fans will like to see.
Establishing a Cold-Weather Identity Through the Run Game
In their win over the Jets, the Fins were able to put up 239 rushing yards and three touchdowns even without De’von Achane for most of the game, as he was ruled out due to an injury suffered during the game. This comes after they totaled 197 rush yards against the Bills, 169 against the Commanders, and 164 against the Saints amidst a four game winning streak.
After the game, Mike Mcdaniel finally seemed to acknowledge that running the football would help the offense a lot more in the cold. “”This is the formula to win in December.” he said speaking to the media.
This also matters because Tua Tagovailoa has struggled as a passer throughout his career in cold weather matchups. He had gone 0-7 in his career before the Jets game in games played under 40 degrees Fahrenheit. However, his record against the Jets is now a sterling 7-0, with him finally posting a win in a cold environment.
Encouraging Signs for Miami’s Backfield Depth and McDaniel’s Future
The Dolphins most importantly received some positive injury news concerning Achane after the game as well. Mcdaniel was able to give an update, saying that X-rays did not show any sign of a fracture for Achane and should he be available for next week’s game against the Steelers, he will be ready to suit up. Achane ran the ball seven times for 92 yards in the game before exiting in the second quarter.
Jaylen Wright was able to step up in Achane’s absence, running the ball 24 times for 107 yards and a touchdown, keeping the offense on schedule. If Achane is out for longer than expected, it’s safe to say the Dolphins rushing attack is in good hands.
Most importnatly though, is Mcdaniel’s change of tune. The fact that the Dolphins have been able to predicate themselves on winning games on the ground is a major development in Mcdaniel’s potentially staying on for several more years as the head coach amidst a period of change for the squad. And who knows? With this formula, the Dolphins could go from trainwreck to playoff team.
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