Miami Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa Inactive Against Cleveland Browns: What This Means for the Team
2024-12-29
Author: Ying
CLEVELAND — The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for a crucial elimination game against the Cleveland Browns today at 4:05 PM, but they face a significant challenge without quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in the lineup.
In a surprising turn of events, Tagovailoa was downgraded from questionable to inactive just hours before the game due to a hip injury. Initial assessments had downplayed the injury's severity, making the announcement even more unexpected for fans and analysts alike.
Alongside Tagovailoa, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle also joins the list of inactives due to a knee issue, further depleting the Dolphins' offensive arsenal. The Browns also face their own challenges, with quarterback Jameis Winston and tight end David Njoku sidelined.
Dolphins Inactive List:
- QB Tua Tagovailoa - WR Jaylen Waddle - LB Anthony Walker - CB Nik Needham - LB Mo Kamara - OL Andrew Meyer - WR Erik Ezukanma
Browns Inactive List:
- QB Jameis Winston - WR Cedric Tillman - CB Chigozie Anusiem - DE Ogbo Okoronkwo - TE David Njoku
As of 2:15 PM, Tagovailoa has not been seen on the field, leaving Tyler "Snoop" Huntley and Skylar Thompson to warm up under the guidance of QB coach Darrell Bevell. Huntley, who has previously played for the Browns but never appeared in a game for them, will now lead the Dolphins as they desperately try to secure a win.
In Huntley's short stint this season, he has started three games, but his performance has been inconsistent, with a total of 377 passing yards, one touchdown, and one interception. The Dolphins will likely rely upon their running game more heavily, especially considering the damp and windy weather conditions in Cleveland today, where temperatures hover around 58 degrees with a robust breeze of 17 mph and gusts reaching up to 31 mph.
For the Dolphins, making any substantial playoff push now hinges on not only defeating the Browns today but also securing a win against the Jets next week. They also require favorable outcomes in other league games, specifically a loss from the Broncos against the Chiefs, to enhance their playoff chances, which currently stand at a mere 16 percent according to The Athletic's model.
While Tyreek Hill is expected to play despite his wrist issue, fans may see a more conservative offensive game plan focused on the running game and quick plays rather than deep throws, especially with the windy conditions.
Stay tuned for updates throughout the game as the Dolphins navigate a critical match that could dictate their postseason fate!