MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. -- A few thoughts on the Miami Dolphins' 37-35 victory Sunday against the Minnesota Vikings:
What it means: The Dolphins needed a late comeback to pick up a much-needed win after two consecutive losses. Rookie defensive lineman Terrence Fede blocked a punt to give Miami a safety and a wild finish. It certainly wasn't pretty. But the victory gives the Dolphins (8-7) and head coach Joe Philbin a chance to finish with a winning season. However, Sunday's win by the Pittsburgh Steelers (10-5) eliminated the Dolphins from playoff contention.
Stock watch: Running back Lamar Miller was a threat on the ground and through the air. He finished with 92 rushing yards and 58 receiving yards. Miller is 79 rushing yards from his first 1,000-yard season. In terms of stock down, Miami's defense gave up a lot of points to Vikings rookie quarterback and Miami native Teddy Bridgewater (259 yards, two touchdowns). Minnesota's 35 points marked its second-highest output of the season.
Wake’s milestone: Cameron Wake recorded two sacks on Bridgewater to notch 11.5 on the season. This is the third time Wake has recorded double-digit sacks in his career. He also became the fourth Dolphin to accomplish the feat. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Wake's first sack of the day triggered a $750,000 bonus in the defensive end's contract.
Game ball: Miami quarterback Ryan Tannehill had one of his best games of the season. He threw for 396 yards, four touchdowns and one interception. Tannehill also showed toughness by absorbing some big shots and continuing to lead the offense to five touchdown drives.
What’s next: The Dolphins will wrap up their 2014 season the same way they did last year by hosting the rival New York Jets (3-12). Miami likely will be favored to win at home, but anything is possible in this AFC East matchup. The Dolphins won the first meeting 16-13 in Week 13.
