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By James Brizuela
Contributing Writer
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The Miami Dolphins are currently 1-5, and only a couple more wins from their playoff hopes being all but lost. That said, the team has a must-win game against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday, and Mike McDaniel issued a warning to Dillon Gabriel.
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One of the glaring weak points for the Dolphins in 2025 has been the defense. Oddly enough, defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and company have yet to stop teams from rushing the ball with huge success. Even stranger is the quality of talent on the defensive side of the ball.
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Bradley Chubb, Jaelan Phillips, Matthew Judon, Jordyn Brooks, and more make up a defense that was presumably set to be dominant. While the team has garnered sacks and turnovers in recent weeks, they are giving up an NFL-leading 168.5 rushing yards per game.
That said, the Dolphins are facing a tough Browns team that can certainly run the ball with Quinshon Judkins. However, the team also has a rookie quarterback, which McDaniel wants to expose for the team to get a much-needed win against Cleveland.
While speaking to reporters ahead of the must-win game, McDaniel laid out the simplest warning and element the Dolphins need to stop the Browns.
“Our job this week is to make (Dillon Gabriel) look like a rookie. What does that mean? That means 11 convicted players playing together and making it hard on him. Don't get it twisted, just because he's a rookie that doesn't mean he can't spin the ball, see the field, and take advantage of opportunities that you give him. The main thing is don't allow him to get comfortable," McDaniel said.
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The Dolphins' defense has the right kind of playmakers to make Gabriel look like a rookie. The team's best bet is to make him uncomfortable through the game and making mistakes. McDaniel's warning is for the defense to step up and make sure the Browns cannot run the score u
Miami needs a win to keep its season alive. They need a win to ensure that the organization does not engage in a fire sale come November 4.
The Browns pose many problems, especially with Myles Garrett lining up against this questionable Dolphins offensive line. However, if the O-line can keep Tua Tagovailoa upright, and the defense can make Gabriel uncomfortable and look every bit a rookie, the team can walk away with a much-needed 2-5 record.
For more on the Dolphins, head to Newsweek Sports.
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