Dolphins discover ground game just in time for playoff push

MIAMI (AP) — With their latest win, the Miami Dolphins may have found a new path to the playoffs — by keeping the ball on the ground.

A suddenly viable running attack helped the Dolphins (9-5) beat New England and retain control of their chances in the race for an AFC wildcard berth.

In Sunday’s 22-12 victory, the Dolphins rushed for 250 yards, their highest total since 2016. It was an uncharacteristically muscular performance by an offense that came into the game ranked last in the NFL in yards per carry.

Even some of those watching from the Miami sideline were surprised.

“I was like, ‘That’s crazy,’” Dolphins defensive tackle Raekwon Davis said. “But congrats to the offense. That was a big, big, big step for them running the ball. That’s something they wanted to keep working on, and that was perfect.”

The win left the Dolphins tied for the seventh-best record in the race for seven AFC playoff spots. They’re assured of making the postseason for only the third time since 2001 if they win their final two games at Las Vegas and at Buffalo, which has already clinched the AFC East.

Without a sweep, the Dolphins are long shots. FiveThirtyEight rates their chance of making the postseason at just 31%.

“Our playoffs is this week against the Raiders,” coach Brian Flores said Monday. “Let’s call it the playoffs. That’s where my focus is. It’s a onegame season.”

WHAT’S WORKING

Salvon Ahmed became the Dolphins’ first 100-yard rusher in 32 games, totaling 122 in 23 carries.

Ahmed is a rookie, one of six who started on offense Sunday. Miami started three rookies in the offensive line, and the unit had by far its best game. The blockers wore down the Patriots, clearing the way for 175 yards rushing after halftime.

“They make it easy on me,” Ahmed said. “They get pushed down the field, and all I got to do is follow behind some big dudes.”