3 Predictions for the Miami Dolphins’ schedule release

Miami Dolphins schedule prediction: Finish with the Jets

The NFL generally schedules a rivalry matchup as the final game of the season in order to ensure maximum drama in divisional races and battles for wild card spots. It makes for great viewing, and some of the more memorable games that we’ve seen over the last few years have come in Week 17/18.

It has been eight years since the Miami Dolphins last played against the New York Jets for the final game of the season.

While it is true that the Jets haven’t been much of a threat to win the AFC East over the last decade, the Dolphins haven’t really, either. So why do the Dolphins always see the Patriots or Bills in the final game of the season instead of New York? Wouldn’t Buffalo vs. New England make for some of the better end-of-season drama?

One of the most memorable games in “recent” Dolphins history was the Week 17 match-up with the Jets in 2008. Miami, led by Chad Pennington, was able to top New York and secure themselves their first playoff appearance in seven years. Since then, the two have met in the final contest of the season just twice (2013 & 2014).

The reason for this prediction? No other reason than the league taking notice that two divisional rivals have met in Week 17 just three times in the last 19 seasons.