As amazing as it sounds, even with the Jets and Steelers winning, the Dolphins are not mathematically eliminated from the playoffs, but they would need to win out, AND get a ridiculous amount of help from the rest of the league. Miami players are more than likely playing for a chance to get opportunities to play in 2016. To have a shot at either, they need to play with pride and honor against the Giants – like the man being honored at the game, Bryan Cox.
Matthews will again be unable to play this game, so it will be another chance for Parker to get some game time experience. The coaching staff was already utilizing their rookie class more each week and Parker has been awarded more playing time due to the injury to Matthews, but also because he’s earned it. He has been improving, and it appears that the game is beginning to slow down for him. In addition, Ajayi, Phillips, and Brice McCain have steadily been getting more snaps each game, and they too have begun to show consistent improvements.
The best sportsbooks in the world initially opened up the Dolphins game as a pick em. However, as the week as gone by, the line has been steadily going up in the Giants favor. The current line has the Giants as a -2.5 point favorite. The action has been predominately coming in on the Giants, with it currently coming in just over 80% on the Giants. Clearly the public believes that the Giants should be able to cover, especially considering that the Giants are very much alive in the race to win race to win the NFC East.
Beyond betting lines, let reflect on the man BRYAN COX .
You could talk about the impact Cox could generate on a hit, the production, you could talk about his loud mouth or vocal leadership- however you saw it; but what truly made Bryan Cox great was his 100% commitment on game day: 100% = 100%! It wasn’t a bet, it was a sure thing. Sometimes it was a 100% fired the wrong way, but it was still total commitment by Bryan Cox nevertheless. He fought for the victory; he fought for his teammates; he fought for the logo…so you understood if his fire went the “wrong way” and you rooted for him just the same. Some guys ‘got a fire’ and some guys ‘got a volcano’ – Cox had a volcano. When a guy who’s a volcano is on your team, you remember him; you respect him; you love him and cut him slack if he fails.
So tonight, I hope the Dolphins do him and all the other greats at attendance the honor,they deserves and play like Bryan Cox tonight. I hope they show all the world that even though the Miami Dolphins might not make the playoff, they have heart and aren’t quitters. Go Fins!!!