Rising
1.Olivier Vernon, defensive end: Vernon has been arguably the biggest surprise for Miami this season. He began the season as an afterthought after the Dolphins drafted No. 3 overall pick
Dion Jordan this past April. But Vernon won the job in training camp and currently leads Miami with 10 sacks. He had 2.5 sacks against the Jets, and is playing his best football late in the season. Vernon’s production has kept Jordan on the bench all season.
[+] EnlargeAP Photo/Seth WenigReceiver Brian Hartline is quietly having a productive season for the Dolphins.
2. Brian Hartline, wide receiver: Hartline is quietly on pace to record back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons. He consistently beat Jets cornerbacks to the tune of nine receptions for 127 yards and a touchdown. He has a team-high 804 yards this season.
3. Offensive line: Miami’s much-maligned group had arguably its best game against New York’s rugged and talented defense. The Dolphins rushed for 125 yards against the NFL’s top run defense, and most importantly, Miami allowed one sack in 44 drop backs from quarterback
Ryan Tannehill. The healthy return of center
Mike Pouncey made an impact.