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Mike McDaniel updates backup QB competition between Zach Wilson, Quinn Ewers

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, October 24th 2025 at 12:05 GMT by Palm Beach Post
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Miami Dolphins Rally Behind Jaylen Waddle and Defensive Back Mike McDaniel in Late‑Season Showdown

In a Thursday night battle that lived up to its hype, the Miami Dolphins pulled off a gritty 27–24 win over the Buffalo Bills at Hard Rock Stadium, thanks in large part to a standout performance by wide receiver Jaylen Waddle and a defensive game‑changer for the Dolphins’ secondary, safety Mike McDaniel. The win not only keeps the Dolphins firmly in playoff conversation but also showcases the deep talent pool the franchise has built over the last few seasons.

Game Recap: 27–24 Victory in a High‑Pressure Finish

The Dolphins entered the game with a record that had them in a tight race with the Jacksonville Jaguars for the final wild‑card spot in the NFC. The Bills, meanwhile, were looking to cement their top‑sixteen playoff position. The early part of the game was a classic back‑and‑forth, with both teams trading touchdowns and field‑goal attempts.

The first quarter saw the Bills take an early lead, as quarterback Josh Allen completed a 40‑yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Stefon Diggs. The Dolphins answered in the second quarter, with a 13‑yard run by running back Rhamondre Stevenson, followed by a 24‑yard catch by Jaylen Waddle from rookie quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Waddle’s first catch of the night was a spectacular 48‑yard run that showcased his speed and agility, and it set the tone for the rest of the game.

However, the defense stepped up early in the third quarter. Mike McDaniel, who had a reputation for making critical stops in the secondary, returned a 30‑yard interception to the 20‑yard line, and the Dolphins' defense forced a turnover on the Bills’ next possession. McDaniel’s interception was one of several key plays that allowed the Dolphins to go back into the game and keep the pressure on.

Jaylen Waddle’s Stat‑Crunching Performance

Waddle had a breakout game, recording 12 receptions for 145 yards and two touchdowns. His biggest contribution came in the fourth quarter, when he delivered a 20‑yard touchdown that shifted the momentum and brought the Dolphins within a field‑goal of the Bills. Waddle’s route running and hands were nearly flawless, catching passes that seemed destined for the air and demonstrating a level of poise that belies his age.

Coach Brian Flores praised Waddle’s work ethic, noting that his ability to read defenses and adjust on the fly is a key reason the Dolphins are still competitive in the NFC. Flores added, “Waddle has been a revelation in our offensive system. His route running is textbook, and his instincts on the field are what we’ve been looking for.”

Mike McDaniel: The Defensive Anchor

McDaniel’s impact went beyond the interception. He recorded 7 total tackles, a forced fumble, and a forced touchdown that came when he tackled Bills' receiver, Stefon Diggs, at the goal line. His awareness on defense was highlighted by a critical third‑down stop in the final minutes that preserved the Dolphins’ lead.

The defensive coordinator, Sean McDermott, emphasized McDaniel’s role in the secondary: “We’re seeing a guy who reads the quarterback and makes the play. McDaniel’s presence in the backfield is like a constant threat to the offensive line.”

Contract News and Team Dynamics

In addition to the on‑field performance, the article also touched on contract developments. Jaylen Waddle has recently been approached by several other teams in the league with a “no‑trading” clause in his contract, ensuring that any trade would involve the entire team and a substantial cap hit. Waddle’s agent confirmed that the Dolphins are working toward a franchise‑tag approach that would secure his position for the next season while keeping him within the team's salary cap structure.

Mike McDaniel’s contract is also a point of conversation. The safety, who signed a four‑year, $42 million extension in 2023, is expected to stay with the Dolphins through at least 2028. Team management has indicated that McDaniel’s role as a defensive playmaker will remain a cornerstone of the Dolphins’ secondary.

The Bigger Picture: Playoff Implications

With the Dolphins now sitting at a 12–7 record, the playoff picture has shifted. The victory over the Bills not only pushes the Dolphins closer to the playoff threshold but also gives them momentum heading into the final stretch of the season. The team’s offensive balance—highlighted by Tagovailoa’s rookie experience and Waddle’s explosive playmaking—alongside a defense that consistently creates turnovers, gives them a competitive edge in the NFC.

In the final section of the article, analysts discuss the strategic implications of the Dolphins’ recent win. The combination of an effective pass offense and a secondary that can disrupt opposing quarterbacks suggests that Miami will be a tough matchup for any team that makes the playoffs.

Conclusion

The game against the Bills showcased why the Miami Dolphins are considered a playoff contender. Jaylen Waddle’s remarkable 145‑yard, two‑touchdown outing and Mike McDaniel’s defensive brilliance—including an interception, forced fumble, and a critical touchdown—were pivotal to the Dolphins’ 27–24 victory. Beyond the statistics, the article underscores the importance of contract stability for both players and the overall cohesion of the Dolphins’ roster. As the season enters its final weeks, the Dolphins’ balanced offense and opportunistic defense position them well for a postseason run, and the leadership from coaches and front‑office managers suggests that the team’s trajectory is upward.