Dolphins Prep for Ravens on Quick Turnaround Despite Defensive Setbacks

The Miami Dolphins are gearing up for a quick turnaround following their 34-17 victory over the Atlanta Falcons in Week 8. After securing their second win of the season, the Dolphins will host the Baltimore Ravens on Thursday Night Football, just four days later. While both teams have faced disappointing seasons, Miami’s defense and the uncertainty surrounding Lamar Jackson’s health will shape the matchup.

The Ravens, much like the Dolphins, have struggled this season due to defensive challenges and the unclear status of two-time MVP Lamar Jackson. While the Dolphins are preparing for Jackson’s return after a four-week absence due to a hamstring injury, they are also readying for backup quarterback Tyler Huntley, in case Jackson is not able to play. Miami head coach Mike McDaniel confirmed the team would plan for both quarterbacks, but he expects Jackson to take the field on Thursday night.

Jackson’s injury status has been complicated by conflicting reports. Initially, the Ravens indicated that Jackson would play in Week 8 against the Chicago Bears, only for the team to later rule him out. Despite the uncertainty, McDaniel is focused on preparing for Jackson as if he were playing, acknowledging the quarterback’s status as an All-Pro and the potential game-changing impact he could have.

In addition to the uncertainty around Jackson, the Dolphins will be missing cornerback Storm Duck, who suffered a season-ending knee injury, and possibly safety Ashtyn Davis due to a quad injury. However, Miami is expected to have safety Minkah Fitzpatrick available, which should help the defense prepare for the Ravens’ offense, regardless of who is behind center.

1. Dolphins’ Quick Turnaround After Week 8 Win

The Dolphins will have to adjust quickly after their solid performance against the Atlanta Falcons in Week 8. The 34-17 victory was important not only for their morale but also for their playoff hopes, as they aim to build on their second win of the season. Now, with just a short break before facing the Ravens, the Dolphins must refocus and prepare for a tough Thursday Night Football matchup. The quick turnaround means that Miami’s coaching staff will need to adjust their game plan efficiently while dealing with injuries to key players, including cornerback Storm Duck. Duck’s season-ending knee injury leaves the Dolphins’ defense with a significant gap, particularly against a high-profile quarterback like Lamar Jackson, if he plays. The Dolphins’ defensive unit will have to step up in his absence, with a key focus on stopping Jackson or Huntley, depending on who takes the field for Baltimore. Miami’s defense has been a point of concern throughout the season, and the absence of key players further complicates their task. With a short week of preparation, the Dolphins will need to rely on their depth and the leadership of players like safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to fill in the gaps. McDaniel will also look for his defense to rise to the occasion in what is shaping up to be an important game for both teams. Although the Dolphins are coming off a solid win, they face the challenge of executing a quick turnaround, adjusting to personnel changes, and facing a potentially explosive Ravens offense, led by either Jackson or Huntley.

2. Lamar Jackson’s Injury Status and Ravens’ Uncertainty

Lamar Jackson’s injury has been a major storyline for the Ravens this season. After missing four games due to a hamstring injury sustained in Week 4 against the Chiefs, Jackson’s status for Thursday’s game remains uncertain. The Ravens’ handling of Jackson’s injury has raised eyebrows, especially after the team initially indicated he would play in Week 8 against the Chicago Bears, only to later rule him out. Coach Jim Harbaugh attributed the confusion to what he called an “honest mistake,” but the situation has left the Ravens’ quarterback situation clouded. The Dolphins, while expecting Jackson to return, will have to adjust if Tyler Huntley ends up starting. Huntley has shown the ability to step in during Jackson’s absence, but he doesn’t bring the same dynamic playmaking ability that Jackson provides. For the Dolphins, the uncertainty surrounding Jackson makes preparation difficult, but they are approaching the game with caution. Head coach Mike McDaniel stated that it’s crucial to assume Jackson will play to avoid being caught off guard if he does take the field. This cautious approach reflects Jackson’s ability to change the game, as his running and passing abilities create significant challenges for any defense. While the Ravens’ offense has been inconsistent this season, Jackson’s return could provide the boost they need to get back on track. For the Dolphins, facing Jackson at full strength would be a daunting task, especially with their defensive injuries and depth concerns.

3. Defensive Challenges for Miami

The Dolphins’ defense faces significant challenges heading into the Thursday night game, especially with injuries to key players. Cornerback Storm Duck’s season-ending knee injury and safety Ashtyn Davis’ ongoing quad injury mean the defense will be shorthanded. While safety Minkah Fitzpatrick is expected to play, the overall depth and stability of Miami’s defense will be tested against a Ravens offense that has the potential to put up points, particularly with Lamar Jackson under center. Miami’s defense has allowed an average of 31.6 points per game this season, which ranks among the worst in the league. While they have shown flashes of potential, their inconsistency has been a major issue. With just a few days to prepare for an explosive offense—either with Jackson or Huntley—Miami will need to make quick adjustments to ensure they can slow down Baltimore’s offensive attack. The Dolphins’ defensive line, secondary, and linebackers must come together to compensate for the injuries and the absence of Duck. Fitzpatrick’s leadership will be key to organizing the back end of the defense, and the defensive line will need to generate pressure to disrupt Baltimore’s quarterback, whichever one takes the snaps. The ability to contain Jackson, or at the very least minimize his impact, will be pivotal to Miami’s success on defense. As Miami faces a tough matchup with a quick turnaround, the defense must find ways to compensate for its injuries and weaknesses if they want to remain competitive in this pivotal game.