jg772006
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Next monday, we may perhaps see the latest chapter in this storied rivalry. Two rookie QBs lookign to make both teams better than they are. Fin and Jet fans don't like each other and never will, but one thing we can all agree upon is that this rivalry is truly a special one, no matter which way you look at it.
I'm not here to start a war, but to somewhat celebrate what has been a great rivalry for the last 40 years. THe Dolphins and the Jets have given us so many memorable games, and jaw-dropping moments throughout the years, and I think we may be in for another one, especially since there next game is on Monday Night.
Here is a detailed rundwon that I put up every year to celebrate this rivalry. Enjoy.
The Great Games / Moments:
* - Voted as one of the Top 5 most important / memorable games in this rivalry.
The 1960s:
Sept. 9, 1966 in MIA: - The First Meeting:
The inaugural meeting took place in 1966, the year that the Miami Dolphins were the new AFL East Division expansion team. The already well established New York Jets took the first win between these teams, however it was not easy.
Result: New York 19 Miami 14
Nov. 2, 1969 in NY: - Joe Namath out-slugs Bob Griese:
In a game featuring two Hall of Fame quarterbacks, Joe Namath and Bob Griese put on a show that would catapult this rivalry for years to come. This game had six lead changes from two high powered offenses as both defensives struggled tremendously. But in the end, it was "Broadway Joe" and the Jets that prevailed by a small margin.
Result: New York 34 Miami 31
The 1970s:
Oct. 10, 1970 in NY: - Miami beats New York for the first time:
After losing the first eight meetings to the Jets by a combined margin of 238-112, Miami finally broke through and got the monkey off their back. In the first eight meetings, Joe Namath was an incredible 93 of 161 for 1,506 yards with 12 touchdown passes and no interceptions. He wasn't magic on this day as Miami recorded its first win over the Jets.
Result: Miami 20 New York 6
Nov. 19, 1972 in MIA: - Miami beats New York to keep Perfect Season intact:
Miami was down during the entire game, but they still managed to keep up with the Jets. Miami running back Eugene "Mercury" Morris scored the final touchdown of the game with less than 1:30 on the clock to keep their undefeated season intact. Miami went on to win Super Bowl VII and finish with an unprecedented, untouched 17-0 undefeated season. The NFL's only perfect season.
Result: Miami 28 New York 24
Oct. 7, 1973 in MIA: - Bill Stanfill sacks away in a blowout:
In a blowout win at home, Miami defensive end Bill Stanfill starred in this game by recording five sacks on Jets quarterback Joe Namath. Although sacks were not an official statistic prior to 1982, this was the first of two career five sack games by Bill Stanfill as Miami romped the Jets.
Result: Miami 31 New York 3
Oct. 19, 1975 in NY: - Miami picks on Namath...literally:
Joe Namath was outstanding in his first eight meetings against Miami, but this game was a disaster for "Broadway" Joe. Miami picked off Namath an unprecedented six times en route to recording the first shutout of this storied rivalry. This game is still to this day remains the largest margin of victory between these two teams.
Result: Miami 43 New York 0
Sept. 26, 1976 in MIA: - Joe Namath's last game against Miami:
One year earlier, the first shutout of this rivalry was recorded. For the second time in three games, Namath and the Jets failed to score a single point while Miami dominated. It was Namath's last game against Miami.
Result: Miami 16 New York 0
The 1980s:
Oct. 27, 1980 in NY / Dec. 20, 1980 in MIA: - New York keeps Miami out of playoffs with improbable sweep:
Many people say that 1980 was really the year that jump started this rivalry. The Jets and Dolphins were complete opposites with the Jets struggling and Miami poised for the playoffs. The Jets had other plans. All season, the Jets won a total of only four games, two of those games were against Miami which was just enough to keep Miami out of the playoffs. The Jets finished the season 4-12 while the Dolphins finished 8-8. The key between those two records, the Jets season sweep of Miami.
Results: Game 1 - New York 17 Miami 14 / Game 2 - New York 24 Miami 17
Oct. 4, 1981 in MIA: - The Tie:
The Dolphins and the Jets played five full quarters in this game, but neither team could come out the winner. The Dolphins entered this game with a six game losing streak to the Jets. After the game, Miami coach Don Shula half jokingly said that the tie was "a step in the right direction". The stars of this game were wide receivers Nat Moore of the Dolphins and Wesley Walker of the Jets. Moore caught seven passes for a then club record of 210 yards along with two touchdowns, while Walker had eight catches for 112 yards and a pair of touchdowns of his own. It is the only recorded tie to date between these two teams.
Result: Miami 28 New York 28
Nov. 22, 1981 in NY: - A hurt Richard Todd throws the game winning score:
After finishing in a tie earlier in the year, the Jets temporarily removed Miami from the AFC East lead. Jets quarterback Richard Todd, who was playing this game with fractured ribs, fired an 11 yard touchdown pass to Jerome Barkum with 16 seconds left, to tie the game 15-15. Kicker Pat Leahy's ensuing extra point awarded the Jets the win, and the lead in the division (which Miami would win later on that year). Richard Todd, in so much pain, was literally crying in pain and in joy after this win on the sidelines.
Result: New York 16 Miami 15
* Jan. 23, 1983 in MIA: - A.J. Duhe stars in AFC Championship Mud Bowl:
Probably the biggest game in this rivalry to date is the 1983 (1982 Season) AFC Championship Game, more appropriately known as "The Mud Bowl". After sweeping the Jets during the regular season by scores of 45-28 and 20-19, the two teams would meet again, this time with a trip to Super Bowl XVII on the line. A slippery, sloppy, muddy field kept both teams scoreless in the first half, however that would all change in the second half. All game, it was a classic defensive battle that featured ten turnovers, eight of them were quarterback interceptions. The star of the game was undoubtedly Dolphins linebacker A.J. Duhe who picked off three of Jets quarterback Richard Todd's five interceptions, returning one 35 yards for a touchdown which helped seal the win and sending Miami to Super Bowl XVII. It also marked the third time in Dolphins history that they shutout the Jets, and the first time Miami defeated the Jets three times in one season.
Result: Miami 14 New York 0
Dec. 16, 1983 in MIA: - Mike Kozlowski breaks a close game wide open:
Dan Marino was sidelined for a second consecutive game, in which back up quarterback Don Strock stepped in. In a very close game going into the fourth quarter, the Dolphins held the lead 20-14, however the Jets were threatening. Miami safety Mike Kozlowski broke the game wide open when he intercepted two passes and returned both for touchdowns in a 61 second span, catapulting Miami to victory. With four catches for 71 yards on this day, Dolphins receiver Mark Duper also became the first Dolphin ever with 1,000 yards receiving in a single season.
Result: Miami 34 New York 14
Nov. 4, 1984 in NY: - Nat Moore's "Helicopter" Catch:
The score did not matter in this game. This game was defined by one of the most memorable moments in NFL history; Nat Moore's "Helicopter" Catch. Nat Moore hauls in a Dan Marino pass and sprints toward the endzone. At the 5-yard line, Moore is hit in rapid succession by two Jets in the secondary. Kenny Schroy hits Moore low, while Kirk Springs hits him high. The combination causes Moore's body to flat-spin 360 degrees in mid-air! To his credit, Moore hangs onto the ball, as the Fins go on to score a touchdown. The hit is forever shown on NFL highlight films as one of the most incredible hits in NFL history.
Result: Miami 31 New York 17
Oct. 14, 1985 in NY: - New York retires Joe Namath's jersey:
It is only appropriate for New York to retire the jersey of their greatest quarterback in franchise history, on a night against the team he owned back when they were established. Joe Namath started his career against Miami an unprecedented 8-0 in the late 60s. The Jets honored Namath in two ways on this night. Retiring his jersey and defeating his arch-rival that he owned in the 60s.
Result: New York 23 Miami 7
Nov. 10, 1985 in MIA: - "Super" Duper's heroic last minute 50 yard touchdown catch:
After being sidelined for seven weeks with a broken leg, Mark "Super" Duper had the game of his life when he came back on this day to play the Jets. He set a Dolphins club single game record with 217 receiving yards, but not before helping Miami catapult to victory. Down 17-14 with less than a minute to play, Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino fired a 50 yard touchdown pass to "Super" Duper for the win.
Result: Miami 21 New York 17
* Sept. 21, 1986 in NY: - The Classic Shootout - Ken O'Brien vs. Dan Marino:
In one of the greatest classic shootouts in NFL history, quarterbacks Ken O'Brien and Dan Marino put on an offensive performance no Dolphin or Jet fan should ever forget. Both defenses looked absolutely foolish as the two quarterbacks combined, set NFL single game records (at the time) of 884 net passing yards and ten touchdown passes. Marino completed 30 of 50 passes for 448 yards and six touchdown passes. Dolphin receivers Mark Duper and Mark Clayton both had big games, each having over 100 yards receiving (Duper with 154, Clayton with 174). Ken O'Brien threw four touchdown passes all to wide receiver Wesley Walker, including the one with :00 left on the clock to force OT, and the one in OT for the win. This game still remains as the highest scoring game in this rivalry (96 points).
Result: New York 51 Miami 45 / OT
Nov. 24, 1986 in MIA: - Miami gets revenge from classic shootout:
After a heartbreaking loss earlier that year in the classic shootout which saw 96 points being scored, Miami exacted some revenge with a blowout win at home. The Jets came into this game with a nine game winning streak and a 10-1 record, the best in the NFL, while Miami came into this game 5-6. However on this day, Miami embarrassed them. Marino completed 29 of 36 passes for 288 yards and four touchdown passes. Miami running back Lorenzo Hampton rushed for 148 yards on 19 carries and two scores, one being a 50 yard touchdown run. As for the Jets, they could only manage three points. After this game, New York went on to lose their next four games in a row to finish 10-6, which led them to limp and ultimately fold into the playoffs, losing in a double OT divisional round game to Cleveland.
Result: Miami 45 New York 3
Oct. 18, 1987 in NY: - The Replacement Game:
The year 1987 had a short lived strike, which ironically enough had to coincide with one of the two games that involved the Dolphins and the Jets. Even more ironic was the way both these teams put on quite a show with a bunch of no-name players. Even more strange was the fact that both teams played so well with these no name players, the game went into overtime. Jets quarterback Pat Ryan crossed the picket line in order to lead the Jets offense to victory, in which he did quite well. And in one more final bit of irony, Miami's replacement quarterback was Kyle Mackey...¦a future Jet.
Result: New York 37 Miami 31 / OT
Dec. 7, 1987 in MIA: - Marty Lyons clips Dwight Stephenson:
In what was probably one of the most despicable acts in football history, what happened on this day no Dolphin fan will ever forget. Mention the name Marty Lyons to any Dolphin fan, and emotion bordering on hatred will emerge. Miami won the game that night but came out of it with a HUGE loss. Jets defensive tackle Marty Lyons and Dolphins center Dwight Stephenson were teammates at the University of Alabama and were good close friends up until this faithful night in Miami on Monday Night Football. The hit came on a fumble return when Marty Lyons took a cheap shot by going low and doing an illegal chop block right at the right knee of Dwight. Dwight's knee turned into a mangled mess with permanent ligament and nerve damage, forcing him to retire early. After the game, Marty Lyons so distraught over what he did, went to the Dolphins locker room to apologize, but Dolphins head coach Don Shula chased him out in one of the most ugly profanity-laced tirades in NFL history.
Result: Miami 37 New York 28
Oct. 23, 1988 in MIA: - Erik McMillan spoils Dan Marino's 500 yard performance:
Dan Marino put on another great performance, however he came up short. On this day, Dan Marino joined a small, select few of quarterbacks to throw for more than 500 yards in a single game. Marino threw for a career high 521 yards (NFL record: 554 by Norm Van Brocklin). Marino completed 35 of 60 passes, threw for three touchdown passes, but five interceptions led to his demise. Three of those interceptions were by rookie Jets cornerback Erik McMillan, one of them he returned 55 yards for a touchdown. The Jets were ahead this entire game, including at halftime when the Jets were ahead 30-10 after a Ken O'Brien flea-flicker touchdown pass to Wesley Walker. Dan Marino's 521 yards were not enough however as the Jets defeated the Dolphins.
Result: New York 44 Miami 30
Nov. 12, 1989 in NY: - Pete Stoyanovich's 59 yard field goal - Ken O'Brien stopped at the Goal-Line:
After being down 20-3 at halftime, Miami was able to come back, take the lead, and clinch the win with the third longest field goal in NFL history (at the time). Miami kicker Pete Stoyanovich nailed a 59 yard field goal with less than 2:30 on the clock to help seal the win. However the pivotal play of the game was when Jets quarterback Ken O'Brien drove the Jets down the field, and when he attempted to run in the end zone for the game winning score, Miami defensive back Louis Oliver had an incredible stop on the goal-line preserving the win for Miami.
Result: Miami 31 New York 23
The 1990s:
* Dec. 22, 1991 in MIA: - Raul Allegre's Season Finale - Winner takes all, Loser goes home:
The season finale in 1991 between the Jets and Dolphins had so much on the line. The winners would clinch the final AFC Wildcard spot in the playoffs, and the losers would have their season come to an end. It was a seesaw battle all game, but in the end it would be another chapter in this storied rivalry. Miami took the lead 20-17 with 44 seconds remaining with a one yard TD toss from Dan Marino to TE Ferrell Edmunds. However when the Jets got the ball, they drove down the field, and tied the game to force OT on Raul Allegre's 44 yard field goal. Allegre came through for the Jets once again in OT with a 30 yard field goal, sending the Jets in the playoffs, and sending Miami home.
Result: New York 23 Miami 20 / OT
Dec. 20, 1992 in MIA: - Pete Carroll "Chokes":
Former Jets defensive coordinator at this time Pete Carroll, got a little ****y during this game and wound up eating his own arrogance at the conclusion of this game. Miami kicker Pete Stoyanovich missed an extra point late in the fourth quarter that would tie the game up at 17 all, but instead left the Jets with a 17-16 lead. That prompted Pete Carroll to get overzealous and make a choking gesture sign on the sidelines poking fun at the Dolphins while he and the team was celebrating. However, the Dolphins would get the last laugh in this game. Marino drove the Dolphins down the field on their last possession, and managed to clinch the win off a last second field goal by Pete Stoyanovich.
Result: Miami 19 New York 17
* Nov. 27, 1994 in NY: - Dan Marino's infamous "Fake Spike":
Undoubtedly the single greatest play in Dan Marino's glorious career. What Dan Marino did in this game absolutely tortured the Jets and their fans so bad, it would haunt them for years to come. Heading into the fourth quarter, Miami was down 24-6 and were simply being outplayed. However, Marino never gave up. He drove the Dolphins to two scores, thus making the score 24-21. Marino got the ball one last time and on this drive, single handedly changed the course of history for the entire Jets franchise. Marino drove the Dolphins down the field and within the Jets five yard line. With 30 seconds remaining, and the clock continuing to wind down, it appeared Marino was going to spike the ball to stop the clock and send out the field goal unit to tie the game. But the kick was never needed. Instead, Marino took the snap from center, and fired the ball in the corner of the endzone, passed Jets rookie cornerback Aaron Glenn and into the hands of Dolphins receiver Mark Ingram. When the snap happened, the entire Jets defense froze thinking Marino spiked the ball. It was Mark Ingram's fourth touchdown catch of the game, which tied a club record with former Dolphins wide receiver Paul Warfield. Marino finished 31 of 44 for 359 yards and four touchdown passes with two interceptions. Miami went on to win and as for the Jets after that play, for the rest of that year and the following two years, the Jets compiled a record of 4-32. The "Fake Spike" destroyed the Jets franchise for the next two years, ultimately leading to the firing of head coach Pete Carroll, while during that time, Miami won one AFC East Division title and made the playoffs both years.
Result: Miami 28 New York 24
Sept. 3, 1995 in MIA: - The Massacre in Miami:
It is to date, the hottest opening day game in NFL history and ironically, it had to involve these two bitter rivals. The Dolphins and the Jets opened the season in Miami where the temperature at kickoff was an astonishing 95 degrees F. The game did not start off as a massacre however. Miami actually turned the ball over four times in the first half to keep the Jets in the game. At halftime the score was 21-14 in favor of Miami, however in the second half, Miami blew the game wide open. Miami put together their second highest point total in franchise history with another 32 points in the second half totaling 52 for the game, as Dan Marino threw for 250 yards and three touchdowns, while the Jets could only manage two meaningless touchdowns.
Result: Miami 52 New York 14
Oct. 22, 1995 in NY: - The Record Doesn't Matter - New York Openly Laughs at Miami:
One of the four games that the Jets would win after the fake spike the previous year was against Miami the following year. After that season opening drubbing in Miami by a score of 52-14, Miami looked to be unstoppable in the AFC. However, once again the Jets had other plans. Miami heading into their second meeting against New York were 4-2, while the Jets were 1-6 under head coach Rich Kotite. This game was the perfect example in which it should not matter when you look at win/loss records. Miami led 9-0 at halftime but on this October day, the Jets scored 17 second half points and managed to hang on for the win barely, and as the seconds ticked off, the Jets openly laughed at Miami, almost inciting a riot. Referees and officials had to keep both teams separated before things got out of control. The Jets went on to finish 3-13 that year, but this win is what they were most proud of that year.
Result: New York 17 Miami 16
Sept. 15, 1996 in MIA: - Dan Marino's 35th Birthday:
Miami looked doomed from the start in this game, which happened to be Miami quarterback Dan Marino's 35th birthday. The Jets opened up to a 14-0 lead, which included an amazing 100 yard interception return by Jets cornerback Aaron Glenn. Miami however was able to tie the game up at 14-14 right before the half, which included a 74 yard touchdown pass from Dan Marino to rookie fullback Stanley Pritchett. Miami out scored New York 22-13 in the second half as both quarterbacks shined in this great shootout. Jets quarterback Neil O'Donnell completed 25 of 44 for 325 yards, three touchdowns, along with three interceptions. On his 35th birthday, Dan Marino completed 13 of 23 for 257 yards, three touchdowns and one interception.
Result: Miami 36 New York 27
Dec. 13, 1998 in MIA: - Chad Cascadden wins Division for New York on Sunday Night Football:
After starting 4-0 only to lose to the 1-2 Jets in New York by a score of 20-9, these two teams would meet again, this time on Sunday Night Football with identical 9-4 records with the division lead, and possibly the division title on the line. The Jets walked away from this game with the win 21-16, the lead, and ultimately their first AFC East Division Title since the NFL/AFL merger. The game clincher was when Jets defender Chad Cascadden recovered a Dan Marino fumble and returned it 23 yards for a touchdown with just under two minutes to play. The Jets would go all the way to the AFC Championship game, only to lose to Denver 23-10. As far as Miami goes, Miami would make it to the second round of the playoffs, only to get blown out by Denver 38-3. Denver eliminated both New York and Miami from the playoffs that year.
Result: New York 21 Miami 16
Dec. 27, 1999 in MIA: - Dan Marino's last game against New York:
It was Dan Marino's last appearance on a primetime stage. It was Monday Night Football during Christmas week, and it was the last time Dan Marino was in a classic shootout with the Jets. This time, Marino had to face a young up-and-coming quarterback named Ray Lucas, under the tutelage of head coach Bill Parcells. It did not go as planned for Miami. Miami poised for the playoffs were trying to clinch a Wildcard spot, while the Jets started their season 1-6 and were coming into this game at 6-8, winning five out of their last seven. The Jets did not make it easy for the Dolphins. Ray Lucas completed 11 of 23 passes for 190 yards and three touchdown passes. Marino put on one last great performance, completing 29 of 52 passes for 322 yards and three touchdown passes, however he had three interceptions which cost Miami big time. One of those three interceptions was returned 98 yards for a touchdown by Jets defensive back Marcus Coleman. It was the last of Marino's NFL regular season record of 63 career games with 300 yards passing. Dan Marino finished his career against the Jets by throwing for more touchdowns against the Jets than any other opponent he faced in his career (79). The Jets finished the season 8-8 (including a season sweep of Miami), while Miami finished the season 9-7, made it to the second round of the playoffs, only to get embarrassed by Jacksonville. Dan Marino retired six weeks later.
Result: New York 38 Miami 31
The 2000s:
* Oct. 23, 2000 in NY: - The Monday Night Miracle at the Meadowlands:
Oct. 23, 2000 will be a day lived in infamy when it comes to all Dolphin and Jet fans. It is the game that every Jets fan praised, and made every Dolphins fan sick to their stomach. It wasn't the 1992 AFC Wildcard game where the Bills made up a 32 point deficit to beat the Oilers 41-38 in overtime, but it sure was similar. Many people say it was the greatest Monday Night Football game in NFL history, and also one of the greatest comebacks in NFL History. The Jets and Dolphins waged a war so big, that the game lasted over four hours. The game began at 9:00 ET time. In the first half, everything went right for the Dolphins. Dolphins quarterback Jay Fiedler threw a 42 yard touchdown pass to receiver Leslie Shepherd, running back Lamar Smith had a 68 yard touchdown run, and kicker Olindo Mare hit a trio of field goals. As for the Jets, everything that could go wrong, did. Quarterback Vinny Testaverde threw three interceptions, running back Curtis Martin was held to 30 yards on the ground, and the Jets could only manage five first downs in the entire first half. At halftime, the score was 23-7 in favor of Miami. By the end of the 3rd quarter, Miami had a commanding 30-7 lead after a three yard touchdown run by Lamar Smith. Ironically, in the most memorable quote during the game, Dolphins quarterback Jay Fiedler walked over to defensive end Jason Taylor (who was miked up for the game) and said this:
Jay: "They ain't coming back on us!"
To which Jason Taylor replied:
Jason: "Hell No! You Kidding?! C'mon now."
The jinx was set. From the start of the fourth quarter, the floor fell out from underneath Miami. First, Vinny Testaverde threw a pair of touchdown passes, one almost intercepted by Dolphins cornerback Sam Madison but caught by Jets receiver Laveranues Coles for a 30 yard score, and then one to tight end Jermaine Wiggins for a one yard score. The score now went from 30-7, to 30-13, to 30-20. The Jets kept clicking and Miami kept faltering. After a 34 yard field goal by Jets kicker John Hall, narrowing the margin even more, Vinny Testaverde fired a 24 yard touchdown pass to Wayne Chrebet to tie the game 30-30. Before the fourth quarter, the Jets were so bad, their fans were actually leaving the stadium. Now all of a sudden, the Jets tied the game and the fans were piling into the stadium again. After the Wayne Chrebet touchdown, it took only two plays for Miami to respond. Jay Fiedler fired a long 46 yard touchdown pass to Leslie Shepherd to retake the lead 37-30. Vinny Testaverde was then given one last chance to tie the game. With less than a minute left on the clock, and the Jets inside Miami's five yard line, the most memorable play of the game happened when Testaverde hit his offensive tackle Jumbo Elliott for a three yard touchdown pass on a tackle eligible play. The score was now 37-37 going into OT. After playing absolutely miserable in the first three quarters, Vinny Testaverde was an incredible 18 of 26 for 235 yards and four touchdowns in the fourth quarter alone. He threw for five touchdowns and 378 yards overall while completing 36 of 59 passes. After having only ten first downs in the first three quarters, the Jets had a whopping 19 in the fourth. In OT, Jay Fiedler was picked off by Jets cornerback Marcus Coleman for the third time, which set up the dramatic finish. At 1:08 AM ET, John Hall capped off a 23 point fourth quarter deficit by nailing a 40 yard field goal to win the game for the Jets, 40-37 in OT. The game came to be known in NFL lore and eternally known to Jet fans as "The Monday Night Miracle at the Meadowlands", while Dolphin fans remember it as "The Monday Night Meltdown." It was the second largest comeback from a fourth quarter deficit in NFL history. Another interesting stat after this game is the fact that with this loss, the Dolphins fell to a record of 0-4-1 when facing the Jets in overtime games. When Monday Night Football celebrated its 500th telecast on November 11, 2002, fans picked this game as the greatest Monday Night Game in NFL history.
Result: New York 40 Miami 37 / OT
Oct. 14, 2001 in NY: - Miracle at the Meadowlands...Part II:
It wasn't as dramatic as one year earlier, but the game ended in similar fashion. Once again, for the second consecutive year in New York, the Jets were able to overcome a deficit against Miami and secure a win. At halftime, Miami held a lead of 17-0 and out gained the Jets 250-27 in offensive yardage. That would change once again, and in similar fashion from one year prior, the Jets scored 21 unanswered points which included two long touchdown passes from Vinny Testaverde to Laveranues Coles, and Curtis Martin rushing for 120 yards. That allowed New York to out gain Miami 159-19 in offensive yardage in the third quarter. In the closing moments of the game, Jay Fiedler was given a chance to lead Miami to a comeback win, however an ill-advised throw in double coverage caused the pass to be picked off by linebacker Marvin Jones, clinching the win for the Jets by a score of 21-17. However the significance of the game happened at a Miami press conference after the game when Miami middle linebacker Zach Thomas came and spoke out about both teams claiming that both teams "suck", which led to their next meeting only four weeks later.
Result: New York 21 Miami 17
Nov. 18, 2001 in MIA: - New York shuts out Miami for the first time in their Franchise History:
What Zach Thomas said four weeks prior to this game ticked off a lot of Jet players. Zach wound up eating his words in this game. Dating all the way back to 1966 when the Miami Dolphins were established, the New York Jets never shutout Miami. That changed on this day. The stars of the game were Jets cornerbacks Aaron Glenn and Victor Green when both intercepted a pass from Jay Fiedler, and both were returned for touchdowns. The key interception was when Dolphins quarterback Jay Fiedler threw a lateral pass to wide receiver James McKnight that hit his facemask on his helmet which caused him to bobble the ball right into Aaron Glenn's hands, who then returned it 60 yards for a touchdown. That happened on the first drive of the game, and Miami never recovered. Victor Green, later on, returned his interception 63 yards for a touchdown. This game also marked the second time in this rivalry, that Miami had now lost eight consecutive games to the Jets. The last time that happened was when Miami and the Jets faced each other for the first eight times from 1966 to 1969, and the Jets took those first eight meetings.
Result: New York 24 Miami 0
Sept. 22, 2002 in MIA: - Miami ends Eight Game Losing Streak:
The Jets tortured Miami for eight straight games until this day. Two streaks were on the line. The Jets winning streak against Miami, and Miami had a 16 game home winning streak in the months of Sept. and Oct. However at this time, guess which team was the last to beat the Dolphins in Miami in the months of Sept. and Oct. That's right - the New York Jets, 24-14 in 1993. Plus, Miami was 2-0 heading into this game. Miami got a lot of help from their new running back Ricky Williams who rushed for 151 yards on 24 carries, including a 53 yard touchdown run. Another memorable play in this game was an incredible leaping one handed stretch catch by Orande Gadsden before the end of the second half. One of the most memorable catches in Dolphin history. Miami whopped the Jets in this game and in a ironic twist of fate, it was after this game that Vinny Testaverde got benched and the new starting quarterback for the Jets...would be Chad Pennington.
Result: Miami 30 New York 3
Nov. 10, 2002 in NY: - Ray Lucas loses to his former team:
Miami acquired former Jets quarterback Ray Lucas prior to the 2001 season. Lucas tortured Miami in 1999 when he was the starter for the Jets and defeated the Dolphins both times. Lucas's number was called after Dolphins quarterback Jay Fiedler broke his thumb in a comeback win against the Broncos four weeks earlier. After the Denver game, Miami was 5-1 and had a two game lead in the AFC East. Ray Lucas's first couple of starts did not go well losing to Buffalo and Green Bay. Lucas would then face his former team of New York on Sunday Night Football, and drop his third straight game. The moment of the game was when Ray Lucas had a touchdown pass to Dolphins receiver Chris Chambers that ended up nullified. That ultimately led to Miami's loss, and dropped them to a record of 5-4. Miami's two game lead in the AFC East vanished with Ray Lucas at the helm, and in an ironic twist of fate, Ray Lucas's former team the Jets wound up winning the AFC East Division that year.
Result: New York 13 Miami 10
Dec. 18, 2003 in MIA: - The Game of No Significance:
The 2003 season finale of the Dolphins and Jets had nothing on the line. No playoff implications. No division title on the line. Just one final game to play hard and try to beat your arch rival that you hate the most. And boy did these two teams play hard. Miami took the early lead with a pair of Olindo Mare field goals and a Ricky Williams touchdown run to make the score 13-0. Jets running back Curtis Martin then scored a touchdown of his own to narrow the margin to 13-7. Miami quarterback Jay Fiedler, who threw for 328 yards in this game, hit wide receiver Chris Chambers in the endzone for a touchdown grab. Chambers was magnificent all game as he hauled in nine catches for 153 yards and a touchdown grab. A Jet field goal later and the score was 20-10 at halftime. Jets quarterback Chad Pennington did not give up however. In the third quarter, the Jets hit another field goal, and even got a safety to narrow the margin to 20-15. It seemed Miami was faltering and they did for the time being. Pennington, who was 22 for 28 for 221 yards and one touchdown, hit his tight end Anthony Becht for a one yard touchdown, to grab their first lead of the game 21-20 with less than nine minutes to go. Miami however got the ball one last time, and drove down the field and with three seconds left on the clock, relied on the their kicker Olindo Mare, who nailed an ugly 22 yard field goal to seal the win and the season for both them and the Jets.
Result: Miami 23 New York 21
Dec. 18, 2005 in MIA: - Two Quarterbacks vs. One:
The 2005 season for both the Dolphins and the Jets were similar in one small way. Neither team had a durable quarterback. The Jets were on their fifth quarterback of the season while Miami had two inconsistent quarterbacks to work with all year. Miami's starter Gus Frerotte was inconsistent all year, while his backup Sage Rosenfels came in at times to relieve Gus when he either got injured, or was not playing well. Meanwhile the Jets had started five quarterbacks during their season and in this game, their fifth quarterback named Brooks Bollinger had the game of his life. Miami took an early lead with a quick touchdown strike delivered by Gus Frerotte to Chris Chambers. That was the most action Gus would see all game, as he only completed half of his passes for 76 yards and an interception. Brooks Bollinger was magnificent as he completed 28 of 42 passes for 327 yards (the first time in over 30 games Miami allowed a 300 yard passer) and two touchdown passes, including a 60 yard touchdown pass to tight end Doug Jolley. Sage Rosenfels did a great job filling in for Gus Frerotte in the second half by going 6 of 13 for 99 yards and a touchdown pass to wide receiver Marty Booker to help clinch the win. The Miami defense was equally dominate with six sacks (three from Jason Taylor). One of the most memorable plays of the game was linebacker Zach Thomas's monstrous hit along the sideline to Jet running back Cedric Houston. After starting 3-7, this win was Miami's fourth in a row to notch them at a record of 7-7, thus helping them finish the season 9-7 with a six game winning streak, under first year head coach Nick Saban.
Result: Miami 24 New York 20
Oct. 15, 2006 in NY: - The Miss - The Comeback that could have been:
So close, yet so far. Miami tried to exact some revenge from six years ago and have their own "Miracle at the Meadowlands". It was not meant to be. The Dolphins were heading into this game at 1-4 and searching for answers on offense, while the Jets even though at 2-3 were playing great football and playing in tight games. After a 3-0 halftime score in favor of the Jets, the Jets absolutely blew the Dolphins away when Jets kicker Mike Nugent hit another field goal, and quarterback Chad Pennington hit two long touchdown passes to receiver Laveranues Coles to open the score up 20-3 with less than 13 minutes to play. Miami didn't give up though as Dolphins quarterback Joey Harrington who played miserable in the first three quarters was on fire in the fourth. He finished 27 of 43 for 266 yards with a touchdown strike to wide receiver Chris Chambers, but two interceptions cost him. The touchdown to Chris Chambers happened with less than nine minutes on the clock, narrowing the margin to 20-10. With less than four minutes of play time left, Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown, who had his first 100 yard rushing game of the season, had a one yard touchdown run, to narrow the score to 20-17. Miami got the ball one last time and Joey Harrington got Miami in field goal range and called for their kicker Olindo Mare to attempt a 51 yard field goal with 33 seconds left to force OT. Mare kicked it but it was short and wide right as the Jets held on to win.
Result: New York 20 Miami 17
Dec. 26, 2006 in MIA: - Renewing a Rivalry on Christmas Night:
Later on that season, both these teams would meet again, this time on Christmas Night. The Dolphins coming into this game were 6-8 and out of playoff contention. The Jets were 8-6 and in the Wildcard playoff race. The Dolphins expressed all week how they would love to ruin New York's playoff hopes on Christmas Night. It was not meant to be. A rainy field kept both offenses totally inept all game. One of the big highlights of the game was when Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas leveled Jets receiver Laveranues Coles on a crossing route. A hit that Zach Thomas would later get fined on. All of the scoring happened in the final 17:25 of the game. Miami hit a game tying field goal with 2:09 remaining to make the score 10-10. However, Chad Pennington threw a short pass to Leon Washington which he turned into a 64 yard gain. Four plays later, Jets kicker Mike Nugent hit a 30-yard field with 10 seconds left to clinch the win.
Result: New York 13 Miami 10
Sept. 7, 2008 in MIA: - Chad comes to Miami - Brett Favre's Miracle 4th and 13 Hail Mary TD Pass:
Former New York Jet QB Chad Pennington was shipped out of New York, so they could make room for future NFL Hall of Fame QB Brett Favre who left Green Bay after 16 years. Chad Pennington signed withe the Dolphins only weeks later, and the two teams would meet in the 2008 Season Opener. The play of the day was when Brett Favre, on a 4th and 13 with their kicker injured, decided to go for it. After nearly getting sacked, Farve through a 22 yard hail mary pass that was caught by WR Chansi Stuckey for the TD to put the Jets up 13-7. Another Jet score put them up 20-7. Miami was able to make the score close later on with a Pennington to Anthony Fasano TD pass to get within six. On the final drive of the game, Pennington was able to drive the Dolphins for the go ahead score, however he was picked off in the endzone by DB Darrelle Revis with 5 seconds left to help preserve the win. This would set up the classic showdown in the 2008 season finale.
Result: New York 20 Miami 14
Dec. 28, 2008 in NY: - REVENGE: Thy Name is Pennington:
The 2008 season finale had so many juicy sorylines to it. Miami, after going an atrocious 1-15 last year were in position to win their first AFC East division title since 2000, and make their first playoff appearance since 2001. Miami QB Chad Pennington was shipped out of New York in favor for future Hall of Fame QB Brett Favre. In the season opener, the Jets took the win 20-14 with the help of a lucky 4th and 13 Hail Mary TD pass by Brett Favre. The two teams met again 16 weeks later that would determine the fate of the AFC East standings. Heading into this game, the Dolphins were 10-5 with the Jets 9-6, however, Miami had lost five straight to the Jets, eight of the last nine, and 17 of the last 21. The Jets however, started the season 8-3, but lost three of their last four to head into this game at 9-6. Chad Pennington, played this game in this stadium against his former team with the opportunity to knock the Jets out of the playoffs, the team that shafted him aside five months earlier. It was another classic battle in this storied rivalry that would be remembered for its ramifications afterwards. The Jets drew blood first first with a Favre to WR Laveranues Coles TD pass, but a missed extra point put the Jets ahead 6-0. Penningotn fired back with a 27 yard TD pass to WR Ted Ginn, Jr. to put them up 7-6. The ensuing possession for the Jets ended when Favre attempted a screen play pass, but was picked off by Dolphins rookie DE Philip Merling who returned it 25 yards for the TD, to put Miami up 14-6. A Jet field goal later, and the halftime score was 14-9. In the third quarter, after Miami stalled on a drive, Miami long snapper John Denny snapped the ball way over P Brandon Fields head which caused the Jets to get excellent field position. Jet RB Leon Washington responded with a 10 yard TD run to put the Jets up 17-14 which included a made two-point conversion. Chad Pennington responded on the next drive, first with a 44 yard flea flicker pass to Ted Ginn, Jr. which led to a 20 yard TD Pass from Pennington to TE Anthony Fasano to put Miami back on top 21-17. Two Jet drives later, Miami was able to block a punt to get in great field position, which led to a 48 yard FG by Dolphins rookie K Dan Carpenter, which put Miami up 24-17. The following drive sealed the deal when Brett Favre was picked of for the third time in the game (the second time in the game by CB Andre Goodman), and Miami took over. On the Jets final drive with less than seven seconds left, the Jets were able to put together a couple of good laterals to keep the play alive, but it wasn't enough as Miami held on for the improbable win, ending what is perhaps the greatest single season turnaround in NFL history - going from 1-15 laughing stock to 11-5 AFC East Champions as the Dolphins did. Pennington got his revenge on his former team as he finished 22 of 30 for 200 yards with two TDs and no INTs. Brett Farve finished 20 of 40 for 233 yards, one TD and three INTs. With the win, Miami won its first AFC East crown since 2000, and made its first playoff appearance since the 2001 season.
Result: Miami 24 New York 17
I'm not here to start a war, but to somewhat celebrate what has been a great rivalry for the last 40 years. THe Dolphins and the Jets have given us so many memorable games, and jaw-dropping moments throughout the years, and I think we may be in for another one, especially since there next game is on Monday Night.
Here is a detailed rundwon that I put up every year to celebrate this rivalry. Enjoy.
The Great Games / Moments:
* - Voted as one of the Top 5 most important / memorable games in this rivalry.
The 1960s:
Sept. 9, 1966 in MIA: - The First Meeting:
The inaugural meeting took place in 1966, the year that the Miami Dolphins were the new AFL East Division expansion team. The already well established New York Jets took the first win between these teams, however it was not easy.
Result: New York 19 Miami 14
Nov. 2, 1969 in NY: - Joe Namath out-slugs Bob Griese:
In a game featuring two Hall of Fame quarterbacks, Joe Namath and Bob Griese put on a show that would catapult this rivalry for years to come. This game had six lead changes from two high powered offenses as both defensives struggled tremendously. But in the end, it was "Broadway Joe" and the Jets that prevailed by a small margin.
Result: New York 34 Miami 31
The 1970s:
Oct. 10, 1970 in NY: - Miami beats New York for the first time:
After losing the first eight meetings to the Jets by a combined margin of 238-112, Miami finally broke through and got the monkey off their back. In the first eight meetings, Joe Namath was an incredible 93 of 161 for 1,506 yards with 12 touchdown passes and no interceptions. He wasn't magic on this day as Miami recorded its first win over the Jets.
Result: Miami 20 New York 6
Nov. 19, 1972 in MIA: - Miami beats New York to keep Perfect Season intact:
Miami was down during the entire game, but they still managed to keep up with the Jets. Miami running back Eugene "Mercury" Morris scored the final touchdown of the game with less than 1:30 on the clock to keep their undefeated season intact. Miami went on to win Super Bowl VII and finish with an unprecedented, untouched 17-0 undefeated season. The NFL's only perfect season.
Result: Miami 28 New York 24
Oct. 7, 1973 in MIA: - Bill Stanfill sacks away in a blowout:
In a blowout win at home, Miami defensive end Bill Stanfill starred in this game by recording five sacks on Jets quarterback Joe Namath. Although sacks were not an official statistic prior to 1982, this was the first of two career five sack games by Bill Stanfill as Miami romped the Jets.
Result: Miami 31 New York 3
Oct. 19, 1975 in NY: - Miami picks on Namath...literally:
Joe Namath was outstanding in his first eight meetings against Miami, but this game was a disaster for "Broadway" Joe. Miami picked off Namath an unprecedented six times en route to recording the first shutout of this storied rivalry. This game is still to this day remains the largest margin of victory between these two teams.
Result: Miami 43 New York 0
Sept. 26, 1976 in MIA: - Joe Namath's last game against Miami:
One year earlier, the first shutout of this rivalry was recorded. For the second time in three games, Namath and the Jets failed to score a single point while Miami dominated. It was Namath's last game against Miami.
Result: Miami 16 New York 0
The 1980s:
Oct. 27, 1980 in NY / Dec. 20, 1980 in MIA: - New York keeps Miami out of playoffs with improbable sweep:
Many people say that 1980 was really the year that jump started this rivalry. The Jets and Dolphins were complete opposites with the Jets struggling and Miami poised for the playoffs. The Jets had other plans. All season, the Jets won a total of only four games, two of those games were against Miami which was just enough to keep Miami out of the playoffs. The Jets finished the season 4-12 while the Dolphins finished 8-8. The key between those two records, the Jets season sweep of Miami.
Results: Game 1 - New York 17 Miami 14 / Game 2 - New York 24 Miami 17
Oct. 4, 1981 in MIA: - The Tie:
The Dolphins and the Jets played five full quarters in this game, but neither team could come out the winner. The Dolphins entered this game with a six game losing streak to the Jets. After the game, Miami coach Don Shula half jokingly said that the tie was "a step in the right direction". The stars of this game were wide receivers Nat Moore of the Dolphins and Wesley Walker of the Jets. Moore caught seven passes for a then club record of 210 yards along with two touchdowns, while Walker had eight catches for 112 yards and a pair of touchdowns of his own. It is the only recorded tie to date between these two teams.
Result: Miami 28 New York 28
Nov. 22, 1981 in NY: - A hurt Richard Todd throws the game winning score:
After finishing in a tie earlier in the year, the Jets temporarily removed Miami from the AFC East lead. Jets quarterback Richard Todd, who was playing this game with fractured ribs, fired an 11 yard touchdown pass to Jerome Barkum with 16 seconds left, to tie the game 15-15. Kicker Pat Leahy's ensuing extra point awarded the Jets the win, and the lead in the division (which Miami would win later on that year). Richard Todd, in so much pain, was literally crying in pain and in joy after this win on the sidelines.
Result: New York 16 Miami 15
* Jan. 23, 1983 in MIA: - A.J. Duhe stars in AFC Championship Mud Bowl:
Probably the biggest game in this rivalry to date is the 1983 (1982 Season) AFC Championship Game, more appropriately known as "The Mud Bowl". After sweeping the Jets during the regular season by scores of 45-28 and 20-19, the two teams would meet again, this time with a trip to Super Bowl XVII on the line. A slippery, sloppy, muddy field kept both teams scoreless in the first half, however that would all change in the second half. All game, it was a classic defensive battle that featured ten turnovers, eight of them were quarterback interceptions. The star of the game was undoubtedly Dolphins linebacker A.J. Duhe who picked off three of Jets quarterback Richard Todd's five interceptions, returning one 35 yards for a touchdown which helped seal the win and sending Miami to Super Bowl XVII. It also marked the third time in Dolphins history that they shutout the Jets, and the first time Miami defeated the Jets three times in one season.
Result: Miami 14 New York 0
Dec. 16, 1983 in MIA: - Mike Kozlowski breaks a close game wide open:
Dan Marino was sidelined for a second consecutive game, in which back up quarterback Don Strock stepped in. In a very close game going into the fourth quarter, the Dolphins held the lead 20-14, however the Jets were threatening. Miami safety Mike Kozlowski broke the game wide open when he intercepted two passes and returned both for touchdowns in a 61 second span, catapulting Miami to victory. With four catches for 71 yards on this day, Dolphins receiver Mark Duper also became the first Dolphin ever with 1,000 yards receiving in a single season.
Result: Miami 34 New York 14
Nov. 4, 1984 in NY: - Nat Moore's "Helicopter" Catch:
The score did not matter in this game. This game was defined by one of the most memorable moments in NFL history; Nat Moore's "Helicopter" Catch. Nat Moore hauls in a Dan Marino pass and sprints toward the endzone. At the 5-yard line, Moore is hit in rapid succession by two Jets in the secondary. Kenny Schroy hits Moore low, while Kirk Springs hits him high. The combination causes Moore's body to flat-spin 360 degrees in mid-air! To his credit, Moore hangs onto the ball, as the Fins go on to score a touchdown. The hit is forever shown on NFL highlight films as one of the most incredible hits in NFL history.
Result: Miami 31 New York 17
Oct. 14, 1985 in NY: - New York retires Joe Namath's jersey:
It is only appropriate for New York to retire the jersey of their greatest quarterback in franchise history, on a night against the team he owned back when they were established. Joe Namath started his career against Miami an unprecedented 8-0 in the late 60s. The Jets honored Namath in two ways on this night. Retiring his jersey and defeating his arch-rival that he owned in the 60s.
Result: New York 23 Miami 7
Nov. 10, 1985 in MIA: - "Super" Duper's heroic last minute 50 yard touchdown catch:
After being sidelined for seven weeks with a broken leg, Mark "Super" Duper had the game of his life when he came back on this day to play the Jets. He set a Dolphins club single game record with 217 receiving yards, but not before helping Miami catapult to victory. Down 17-14 with less than a minute to play, Dolphins quarterback Dan Marino fired a 50 yard touchdown pass to "Super" Duper for the win.
Result: Miami 21 New York 17
* Sept. 21, 1986 in NY: - The Classic Shootout - Ken O'Brien vs. Dan Marino:
In one of the greatest classic shootouts in NFL history, quarterbacks Ken O'Brien and Dan Marino put on an offensive performance no Dolphin or Jet fan should ever forget. Both defenses looked absolutely foolish as the two quarterbacks combined, set NFL single game records (at the time) of 884 net passing yards and ten touchdown passes. Marino completed 30 of 50 passes for 448 yards and six touchdown passes. Dolphin receivers Mark Duper and Mark Clayton both had big games, each having over 100 yards receiving (Duper with 154, Clayton with 174). Ken O'Brien threw four touchdown passes all to wide receiver Wesley Walker, including the one with :00 left on the clock to force OT, and the one in OT for the win. This game still remains as the highest scoring game in this rivalry (96 points).
Result: New York 51 Miami 45 / OT
Nov. 24, 1986 in MIA: - Miami gets revenge from classic shootout:
After a heartbreaking loss earlier that year in the classic shootout which saw 96 points being scored, Miami exacted some revenge with a blowout win at home. The Jets came into this game with a nine game winning streak and a 10-1 record, the best in the NFL, while Miami came into this game 5-6. However on this day, Miami embarrassed them. Marino completed 29 of 36 passes for 288 yards and four touchdown passes. Miami running back Lorenzo Hampton rushed for 148 yards on 19 carries and two scores, one being a 50 yard touchdown run. As for the Jets, they could only manage three points. After this game, New York went on to lose their next four games in a row to finish 10-6, which led them to limp and ultimately fold into the playoffs, losing in a double OT divisional round game to Cleveland.
Result: Miami 45 New York 3
Oct. 18, 1987 in NY: - The Replacement Game:
The year 1987 had a short lived strike, which ironically enough had to coincide with one of the two games that involved the Dolphins and the Jets. Even more ironic was the way both these teams put on quite a show with a bunch of no-name players. Even more strange was the fact that both teams played so well with these no name players, the game went into overtime. Jets quarterback Pat Ryan crossed the picket line in order to lead the Jets offense to victory, in which he did quite well. And in one more final bit of irony, Miami's replacement quarterback was Kyle Mackey...¦a future Jet.
Result: New York 37 Miami 31 / OT
Dec. 7, 1987 in MIA: - Marty Lyons clips Dwight Stephenson:
In what was probably one of the most despicable acts in football history, what happened on this day no Dolphin fan will ever forget. Mention the name Marty Lyons to any Dolphin fan, and emotion bordering on hatred will emerge. Miami won the game that night but came out of it with a HUGE loss. Jets defensive tackle Marty Lyons and Dolphins center Dwight Stephenson were teammates at the University of Alabama and were good close friends up until this faithful night in Miami on Monday Night Football. The hit came on a fumble return when Marty Lyons took a cheap shot by going low and doing an illegal chop block right at the right knee of Dwight. Dwight's knee turned into a mangled mess with permanent ligament and nerve damage, forcing him to retire early. After the game, Marty Lyons so distraught over what he did, went to the Dolphins locker room to apologize, but Dolphins head coach Don Shula chased him out in one of the most ugly profanity-laced tirades in NFL history.
Result: Miami 37 New York 28
Oct. 23, 1988 in MIA: - Erik McMillan spoils Dan Marino's 500 yard performance:
Dan Marino put on another great performance, however he came up short. On this day, Dan Marino joined a small, select few of quarterbacks to throw for more than 500 yards in a single game. Marino threw for a career high 521 yards (NFL record: 554 by Norm Van Brocklin). Marino completed 35 of 60 passes, threw for three touchdown passes, but five interceptions led to his demise. Three of those interceptions were by rookie Jets cornerback Erik McMillan, one of them he returned 55 yards for a touchdown. The Jets were ahead this entire game, including at halftime when the Jets were ahead 30-10 after a Ken O'Brien flea-flicker touchdown pass to Wesley Walker. Dan Marino's 521 yards were not enough however as the Jets defeated the Dolphins.
Result: New York 44 Miami 30
Nov. 12, 1989 in NY: - Pete Stoyanovich's 59 yard field goal - Ken O'Brien stopped at the Goal-Line:
After being down 20-3 at halftime, Miami was able to come back, take the lead, and clinch the win with the third longest field goal in NFL history (at the time). Miami kicker Pete Stoyanovich nailed a 59 yard field goal with less than 2:30 on the clock to help seal the win. However the pivotal play of the game was when Jets quarterback Ken O'Brien drove the Jets down the field, and when he attempted to run in the end zone for the game winning score, Miami defensive back Louis Oliver had an incredible stop on the goal-line preserving the win for Miami.
Result: Miami 31 New York 23
The 1990s:
* Dec. 22, 1991 in MIA: - Raul Allegre's Season Finale - Winner takes all, Loser goes home:
The season finale in 1991 between the Jets and Dolphins had so much on the line. The winners would clinch the final AFC Wildcard spot in the playoffs, and the losers would have their season come to an end. It was a seesaw battle all game, but in the end it would be another chapter in this storied rivalry. Miami took the lead 20-17 with 44 seconds remaining with a one yard TD toss from Dan Marino to TE Ferrell Edmunds. However when the Jets got the ball, they drove down the field, and tied the game to force OT on Raul Allegre's 44 yard field goal. Allegre came through for the Jets once again in OT with a 30 yard field goal, sending the Jets in the playoffs, and sending Miami home.
Result: New York 23 Miami 20 / OT
Dec. 20, 1992 in MIA: - Pete Carroll "Chokes":
Former Jets defensive coordinator at this time Pete Carroll, got a little ****y during this game and wound up eating his own arrogance at the conclusion of this game. Miami kicker Pete Stoyanovich missed an extra point late in the fourth quarter that would tie the game up at 17 all, but instead left the Jets with a 17-16 lead. That prompted Pete Carroll to get overzealous and make a choking gesture sign on the sidelines poking fun at the Dolphins while he and the team was celebrating. However, the Dolphins would get the last laugh in this game. Marino drove the Dolphins down the field on their last possession, and managed to clinch the win off a last second field goal by Pete Stoyanovich.
Result: Miami 19 New York 17
* Nov. 27, 1994 in NY: - Dan Marino's infamous "Fake Spike":
Undoubtedly the single greatest play in Dan Marino's glorious career. What Dan Marino did in this game absolutely tortured the Jets and their fans so bad, it would haunt them for years to come. Heading into the fourth quarter, Miami was down 24-6 and were simply being outplayed. However, Marino never gave up. He drove the Dolphins to two scores, thus making the score 24-21. Marino got the ball one last time and on this drive, single handedly changed the course of history for the entire Jets franchise. Marino drove the Dolphins down the field and within the Jets five yard line. With 30 seconds remaining, and the clock continuing to wind down, it appeared Marino was going to spike the ball to stop the clock and send out the field goal unit to tie the game. But the kick was never needed. Instead, Marino took the snap from center, and fired the ball in the corner of the endzone, passed Jets rookie cornerback Aaron Glenn and into the hands of Dolphins receiver Mark Ingram. When the snap happened, the entire Jets defense froze thinking Marino spiked the ball. It was Mark Ingram's fourth touchdown catch of the game, which tied a club record with former Dolphins wide receiver Paul Warfield. Marino finished 31 of 44 for 359 yards and four touchdown passes with two interceptions. Miami went on to win and as for the Jets after that play, for the rest of that year and the following two years, the Jets compiled a record of 4-32. The "Fake Spike" destroyed the Jets franchise for the next two years, ultimately leading to the firing of head coach Pete Carroll, while during that time, Miami won one AFC East Division title and made the playoffs both years.
Result: Miami 28 New York 24
Sept. 3, 1995 in MIA: - The Massacre in Miami:
It is to date, the hottest opening day game in NFL history and ironically, it had to involve these two bitter rivals. The Dolphins and the Jets opened the season in Miami where the temperature at kickoff was an astonishing 95 degrees F. The game did not start off as a massacre however. Miami actually turned the ball over four times in the first half to keep the Jets in the game. At halftime the score was 21-14 in favor of Miami, however in the second half, Miami blew the game wide open. Miami put together their second highest point total in franchise history with another 32 points in the second half totaling 52 for the game, as Dan Marino threw for 250 yards and three touchdowns, while the Jets could only manage two meaningless touchdowns.
Result: Miami 52 New York 14
Oct. 22, 1995 in NY: - The Record Doesn't Matter - New York Openly Laughs at Miami:
One of the four games that the Jets would win after the fake spike the previous year was against Miami the following year. After that season opening drubbing in Miami by a score of 52-14, Miami looked to be unstoppable in the AFC. However, once again the Jets had other plans. Miami heading into their second meeting against New York were 4-2, while the Jets were 1-6 under head coach Rich Kotite. This game was the perfect example in which it should not matter when you look at win/loss records. Miami led 9-0 at halftime but on this October day, the Jets scored 17 second half points and managed to hang on for the win barely, and as the seconds ticked off, the Jets openly laughed at Miami, almost inciting a riot. Referees and officials had to keep both teams separated before things got out of control. The Jets went on to finish 3-13 that year, but this win is what they were most proud of that year.
Result: New York 17 Miami 16
Sept. 15, 1996 in MIA: - Dan Marino's 35th Birthday:
Miami looked doomed from the start in this game, which happened to be Miami quarterback Dan Marino's 35th birthday. The Jets opened up to a 14-0 lead, which included an amazing 100 yard interception return by Jets cornerback Aaron Glenn. Miami however was able to tie the game up at 14-14 right before the half, which included a 74 yard touchdown pass from Dan Marino to rookie fullback Stanley Pritchett. Miami out scored New York 22-13 in the second half as both quarterbacks shined in this great shootout. Jets quarterback Neil O'Donnell completed 25 of 44 for 325 yards, three touchdowns, along with three interceptions. On his 35th birthday, Dan Marino completed 13 of 23 for 257 yards, three touchdowns and one interception.
Result: Miami 36 New York 27
Dec. 13, 1998 in MIA: - Chad Cascadden wins Division for New York on Sunday Night Football:
After starting 4-0 only to lose to the 1-2 Jets in New York by a score of 20-9, these two teams would meet again, this time on Sunday Night Football with identical 9-4 records with the division lead, and possibly the division title on the line. The Jets walked away from this game with the win 21-16, the lead, and ultimately their first AFC East Division Title since the NFL/AFL merger. The game clincher was when Jets defender Chad Cascadden recovered a Dan Marino fumble and returned it 23 yards for a touchdown with just under two minutes to play. The Jets would go all the way to the AFC Championship game, only to lose to Denver 23-10. As far as Miami goes, Miami would make it to the second round of the playoffs, only to get blown out by Denver 38-3. Denver eliminated both New York and Miami from the playoffs that year.
Result: New York 21 Miami 16
Dec. 27, 1999 in MIA: - Dan Marino's last game against New York:
It was Dan Marino's last appearance on a primetime stage. It was Monday Night Football during Christmas week, and it was the last time Dan Marino was in a classic shootout with the Jets. This time, Marino had to face a young up-and-coming quarterback named Ray Lucas, under the tutelage of head coach Bill Parcells. It did not go as planned for Miami. Miami poised for the playoffs were trying to clinch a Wildcard spot, while the Jets started their season 1-6 and were coming into this game at 6-8, winning five out of their last seven. The Jets did not make it easy for the Dolphins. Ray Lucas completed 11 of 23 passes for 190 yards and three touchdown passes. Marino put on one last great performance, completing 29 of 52 passes for 322 yards and three touchdown passes, however he had three interceptions which cost Miami big time. One of those three interceptions was returned 98 yards for a touchdown by Jets defensive back Marcus Coleman. It was the last of Marino's NFL regular season record of 63 career games with 300 yards passing. Dan Marino finished his career against the Jets by throwing for more touchdowns against the Jets than any other opponent he faced in his career (79). The Jets finished the season 8-8 (including a season sweep of Miami), while Miami finished the season 9-7, made it to the second round of the playoffs, only to get embarrassed by Jacksonville. Dan Marino retired six weeks later.
Result: New York 38 Miami 31
The 2000s:
* Oct. 23, 2000 in NY: - The Monday Night Miracle at the Meadowlands:
Oct. 23, 2000 will be a day lived in infamy when it comes to all Dolphin and Jet fans. It is the game that every Jets fan praised, and made every Dolphins fan sick to their stomach. It wasn't the 1992 AFC Wildcard game where the Bills made up a 32 point deficit to beat the Oilers 41-38 in overtime, but it sure was similar. Many people say it was the greatest Monday Night Football game in NFL history, and also one of the greatest comebacks in NFL History. The Jets and Dolphins waged a war so big, that the game lasted over four hours. The game began at 9:00 ET time. In the first half, everything went right for the Dolphins. Dolphins quarterback Jay Fiedler threw a 42 yard touchdown pass to receiver Leslie Shepherd, running back Lamar Smith had a 68 yard touchdown run, and kicker Olindo Mare hit a trio of field goals. As for the Jets, everything that could go wrong, did. Quarterback Vinny Testaverde threw three interceptions, running back Curtis Martin was held to 30 yards on the ground, and the Jets could only manage five first downs in the entire first half. At halftime, the score was 23-7 in favor of Miami. By the end of the 3rd quarter, Miami had a commanding 30-7 lead after a three yard touchdown run by Lamar Smith. Ironically, in the most memorable quote during the game, Dolphins quarterback Jay Fiedler walked over to defensive end Jason Taylor (who was miked up for the game) and said this:
Jay: "They ain't coming back on us!"
To which Jason Taylor replied:
Jason: "Hell No! You Kidding?! C'mon now."
The jinx was set. From the start of the fourth quarter, the floor fell out from underneath Miami. First, Vinny Testaverde threw a pair of touchdown passes, one almost intercepted by Dolphins cornerback Sam Madison but caught by Jets receiver Laveranues Coles for a 30 yard score, and then one to tight end Jermaine Wiggins for a one yard score. The score now went from 30-7, to 30-13, to 30-20. The Jets kept clicking and Miami kept faltering. After a 34 yard field goal by Jets kicker John Hall, narrowing the margin even more, Vinny Testaverde fired a 24 yard touchdown pass to Wayne Chrebet to tie the game 30-30. Before the fourth quarter, the Jets were so bad, their fans were actually leaving the stadium. Now all of a sudden, the Jets tied the game and the fans were piling into the stadium again. After the Wayne Chrebet touchdown, it took only two plays for Miami to respond. Jay Fiedler fired a long 46 yard touchdown pass to Leslie Shepherd to retake the lead 37-30. Vinny Testaverde was then given one last chance to tie the game. With less than a minute left on the clock, and the Jets inside Miami's five yard line, the most memorable play of the game happened when Testaverde hit his offensive tackle Jumbo Elliott for a three yard touchdown pass on a tackle eligible play. The score was now 37-37 going into OT. After playing absolutely miserable in the first three quarters, Vinny Testaverde was an incredible 18 of 26 for 235 yards and four touchdowns in the fourth quarter alone. He threw for five touchdowns and 378 yards overall while completing 36 of 59 passes. After having only ten first downs in the first three quarters, the Jets had a whopping 19 in the fourth. In OT, Jay Fiedler was picked off by Jets cornerback Marcus Coleman for the third time, which set up the dramatic finish. At 1:08 AM ET, John Hall capped off a 23 point fourth quarter deficit by nailing a 40 yard field goal to win the game for the Jets, 40-37 in OT. The game came to be known in NFL lore and eternally known to Jet fans as "The Monday Night Miracle at the Meadowlands", while Dolphin fans remember it as "The Monday Night Meltdown." It was the second largest comeback from a fourth quarter deficit in NFL history. Another interesting stat after this game is the fact that with this loss, the Dolphins fell to a record of 0-4-1 when facing the Jets in overtime games. When Monday Night Football celebrated its 500th telecast on November 11, 2002, fans picked this game as the greatest Monday Night Game in NFL history.
Result: New York 40 Miami 37 / OT
Oct. 14, 2001 in NY: - Miracle at the Meadowlands...Part II:
It wasn't as dramatic as one year earlier, but the game ended in similar fashion. Once again, for the second consecutive year in New York, the Jets were able to overcome a deficit against Miami and secure a win. At halftime, Miami held a lead of 17-0 and out gained the Jets 250-27 in offensive yardage. That would change once again, and in similar fashion from one year prior, the Jets scored 21 unanswered points which included two long touchdown passes from Vinny Testaverde to Laveranues Coles, and Curtis Martin rushing for 120 yards. That allowed New York to out gain Miami 159-19 in offensive yardage in the third quarter. In the closing moments of the game, Jay Fiedler was given a chance to lead Miami to a comeback win, however an ill-advised throw in double coverage caused the pass to be picked off by linebacker Marvin Jones, clinching the win for the Jets by a score of 21-17. However the significance of the game happened at a Miami press conference after the game when Miami middle linebacker Zach Thomas came and spoke out about both teams claiming that both teams "suck", which led to their next meeting only four weeks later.
Result: New York 21 Miami 17
Nov. 18, 2001 in MIA: - New York shuts out Miami for the first time in their Franchise History:
What Zach Thomas said four weeks prior to this game ticked off a lot of Jet players. Zach wound up eating his words in this game. Dating all the way back to 1966 when the Miami Dolphins were established, the New York Jets never shutout Miami. That changed on this day. The stars of the game were Jets cornerbacks Aaron Glenn and Victor Green when both intercepted a pass from Jay Fiedler, and both were returned for touchdowns. The key interception was when Dolphins quarterback Jay Fiedler threw a lateral pass to wide receiver James McKnight that hit his facemask on his helmet which caused him to bobble the ball right into Aaron Glenn's hands, who then returned it 60 yards for a touchdown. That happened on the first drive of the game, and Miami never recovered. Victor Green, later on, returned his interception 63 yards for a touchdown. This game also marked the second time in this rivalry, that Miami had now lost eight consecutive games to the Jets. The last time that happened was when Miami and the Jets faced each other for the first eight times from 1966 to 1969, and the Jets took those first eight meetings.
Result: New York 24 Miami 0
Sept. 22, 2002 in MIA: - Miami ends Eight Game Losing Streak:
The Jets tortured Miami for eight straight games until this day. Two streaks were on the line. The Jets winning streak against Miami, and Miami had a 16 game home winning streak in the months of Sept. and Oct. However at this time, guess which team was the last to beat the Dolphins in Miami in the months of Sept. and Oct. That's right - the New York Jets, 24-14 in 1993. Plus, Miami was 2-0 heading into this game. Miami got a lot of help from their new running back Ricky Williams who rushed for 151 yards on 24 carries, including a 53 yard touchdown run. Another memorable play in this game was an incredible leaping one handed stretch catch by Orande Gadsden before the end of the second half. One of the most memorable catches in Dolphin history. Miami whopped the Jets in this game and in a ironic twist of fate, it was after this game that Vinny Testaverde got benched and the new starting quarterback for the Jets...would be Chad Pennington.
Result: Miami 30 New York 3
Nov. 10, 2002 in NY: - Ray Lucas loses to his former team:
Miami acquired former Jets quarterback Ray Lucas prior to the 2001 season. Lucas tortured Miami in 1999 when he was the starter for the Jets and defeated the Dolphins both times. Lucas's number was called after Dolphins quarterback Jay Fiedler broke his thumb in a comeback win against the Broncos four weeks earlier. After the Denver game, Miami was 5-1 and had a two game lead in the AFC East. Ray Lucas's first couple of starts did not go well losing to Buffalo and Green Bay. Lucas would then face his former team of New York on Sunday Night Football, and drop his third straight game. The moment of the game was when Ray Lucas had a touchdown pass to Dolphins receiver Chris Chambers that ended up nullified. That ultimately led to Miami's loss, and dropped them to a record of 5-4. Miami's two game lead in the AFC East vanished with Ray Lucas at the helm, and in an ironic twist of fate, Ray Lucas's former team the Jets wound up winning the AFC East Division that year.
Result: New York 13 Miami 10
Dec. 18, 2003 in MIA: - The Game of No Significance:
The 2003 season finale of the Dolphins and Jets had nothing on the line. No playoff implications. No division title on the line. Just one final game to play hard and try to beat your arch rival that you hate the most. And boy did these two teams play hard. Miami took the early lead with a pair of Olindo Mare field goals and a Ricky Williams touchdown run to make the score 13-0. Jets running back Curtis Martin then scored a touchdown of his own to narrow the margin to 13-7. Miami quarterback Jay Fiedler, who threw for 328 yards in this game, hit wide receiver Chris Chambers in the endzone for a touchdown grab. Chambers was magnificent all game as he hauled in nine catches for 153 yards and a touchdown grab. A Jet field goal later and the score was 20-10 at halftime. Jets quarterback Chad Pennington did not give up however. In the third quarter, the Jets hit another field goal, and even got a safety to narrow the margin to 20-15. It seemed Miami was faltering and they did for the time being. Pennington, who was 22 for 28 for 221 yards and one touchdown, hit his tight end Anthony Becht for a one yard touchdown, to grab their first lead of the game 21-20 with less than nine minutes to go. Miami however got the ball one last time, and drove down the field and with three seconds left on the clock, relied on the their kicker Olindo Mare, who nailed an ugly 22 yard field goal to seal the win and the season for both them and the Jets.
Result: Miami 23 New York 21
Dec. 18, 2005 in MIA: - Two Quarterbacks vs. One:
The 2005 season for both the Dolphins and the Jets were similar in one small way. Neither team had a durable quarterback. The Jets were on their fifth quarterback of the season while Miami had two inconsistent quarterbacks to work with all year. Miami's starter Gus Frerotte was inconsistent all year, while his backup Sage Rosenfels came in at times to relieve Gus when he either got injured, or was not playing well. Meanwhile the Jets had started five quarterbacks during their season and in this game, their fifth quarterback named Brooks Bollinger had the game of his life. Miami took an early lead with a quick touchdown strike delivered by Gus Frerotte to Chris Chambers. That was the most action Gus would see all game, as he only completed half of his passes for 76 yards and an interception. Brooks Bollinger was magnificent as he completed 28 of 42 passes for 327 yards (the first time in over 30 games Miami allowed a 300 yard passer) and two touchdown passes, including a 60 yard touchdown pass to tight end Doug Jolley. Sage Rosenfels did a great job filling in for Gus Frerotte in the second half by going 6 of 13 for 99 yards and a touchdown pass to wide receiver Marty Booker to help clinch the win. The Miami defense was equally dominate with six sacks (three from Jason Taylor). One of the most memorable plays of the game was linebacker Zach Thomas's monstrous hit along the sideline to Jet running back Cedric Houston. After starting 3-7, this win was Miami's fourth in a row to notch them at a record of 7-7, thus helping them finish the season 9-7 with a six game winning streak, under first year head coach Nick Saban.
Result: Miami 24 New York 20
Oct. 15, 2006 in NY: - The Miss - The Comeback that could have been:
So close, yet so far. Miami tried to exact some revenge from six years ago and have their own "Miracle at the Meadowlands". It was not meant to be. The Dolphins were heading into this game at 1-4 and searching for answers on offense, while the Jets even though at 2-3 were playing great football and playing in tight games. After a 3-0 halftime score in favor of the Jets, the Jets absolutely blew the Dolphins away when Jets kicker Mike Nugent hit another field goal, and quarterback Chad Pennington hit two long touchdown passes to receiver Laveranues Coles to open the score up 20-3 with less than 13 minutes to play. Miami didn't give up though as Dolphins quarterback Joey Harrington who played miserable in the first three quarters was on fire in the fourth. He finished 27 of 43 for 266 yards with a touchdown strike to wide receiver Chris Chambers, but two interceptions cost him. The touchdown to Chris Chambers happened with less than nine minutes on the clock, narrowing the margin to 20-10. With less than four minutes of play time left, Dolphins running back Ronnie Brown, who had his first 100 yard rushing game of the season, had a one yard touchdown run, to narrow the score to 20-17. Miami got the ball one last time and Joey Harrington got Miami in field goal range and called for their kicker Olindo Mare to attempt a 51 yard field goal with 33 seconds left to force OT. Mare kicked it but it was short and wide right as the Jets held on to win.
Result: New York 20 Miami 17
Dec. 26, 2006 in MIA: - Renewing a Rivalry on Christmas Night:
Later on that season, both these teams would meet again, this time on Christmas Night. The Dolphins coming into this game were 6-8 and out of playoff contention. The Jets were 8-6 and in the Wildcard playoff race. The Dolphins expressed all week how they would love to ruin New York's playoff hopes on Christmas Night. It was not meant to be. A rainy field kept both offenses totally inept all game. One of the big highlights of the game was when Dolphins linebacker Zach Thomas leveled Jets receiver Laveranues Coles on a crossing route. A hit that Zach Thomas would later get fined on. All of the scoring happened in the final 17:25 of the game. Miami hit a game tying field goal with 2:09 remaining to make the score 10-10. However, Chad Pennington threw a short pass to Leon Washington which he turned into a 64 yard gain. Four plays later, Jets kicker Mike Nugent hit a 30-yard field with 10 seconds left to clinch the win.
Result: New York 13 Miami 10
Sept. 7, 2008 in MIA: - Chad comes to Miami - Brett Favre's Miracle 4th and 13 Hail Mary TD Pass:
Former New York Jet QB Chad Pennington was shipped out of New York, so they could make room for future NFL Hall of Fame QB Brett Favre who left Green Bay after 16 years. Chad Pennington signed withe the Dolphins only weeks later, and the two teams would meet in the 2008 Season Opener. The play of the day was when Brett Favre, on a 4th and 13 with their kicker injured, decided to go for it. After nearly getting sacked, Farve through a 22 yard hail mary pass that was caught by WR Chansi Stuckey for the TD to put the Jets up 13-7. Another Jet score put them up 20-7. Miami was able to make the score close later on with a Pennington to Anthony Fasano TD pass to get within six. On the final drive of the game, Pennington was able to drive the Dolphins for the go ahead score, however he was picked off in the endzone by DB Darrelle Revis with 5 seconds left to help preserve the win. This would set up the classic showdown in the 2008 season finale.
Result: New York 20 Miami 14
Dec. 28, 2008 in NY: - REVENGE: Thy Name is Pennington:
The 2008 season finale had so many juicy sorylines to it. Miami, after going an atrocious 1-15 last year were in position to win their first AFC East division title since 2000, and make their first playoff appearance since 2001. Miami QB Chad Pennington was shipped out of New York in favor for future Hall of Fame QB Brett Favre. In the season opener, the Jets took the win 20-14 with the help of a lucky 4th and 13 Hail Mary TD pass by Brett Favre. The two teams met again 16 weeks later that would determine the fate of the AFC East standings. Heading into this game, the Dolphins were 10-5 with the Jets 9-6, however, Miami had lost five straight to the Jets, eight of the last nine, and 17 of the last 21. The Jets however, started the season 8-3, but lost three of their last four to head into this game at 9-6. Chad Pennington, played this game in this stadium against his former team with the opportunity to knock the Jets out of the playoffs, the team that shafted him aside five months earlier. It was another classic battle in this storied rivalry that would be remembered for its ramifications afterwards. The Jets drew blood first first with a Favre to WR Laveranues Coles TD pass, but a missed extra point put the Jets ahead 6-0. Penningotn fired back with a 27 yard TD pass to WR Ted Ginn, Jr. to put them up 7-6. The ensuing possession for the Jets ended when Favre attempted a screen play pass, but was picked off by Dolphins rookie DE Philip Merling who returned it 25 yards for the TD, to put Miami up 14-6. A Jet field goal later, and the halftime score was 14-9. In the third quarter, after Miami stalled on a drive, Miami long snapper John Denny snapped the ball way over P Brandon Fields head which caused the Jets to get excellent field position. Jet RB Leon Washington responded with a 10 yard TD run to put the Jets up 17-14 which included a made two-point conversion. Chad Pennington responded on the next drive, first with a 44 yard flea flicker pass to Ted Ginn, Jr. which led to a 20 yard TD Pass from Pennington to TE Anthony Fasano to put Miami back on top 21-17. Two Jet drives later, Miami was able to block a punt to get in great field position, which led to a 48 yard FG by Dolphins rookie K Dan Carpenter, which put Miami up 24-17. The following drive sealed the deal when Brett Favre was picked of for the third time in the game (the second time in the game by CB Andre Goodman), and Miami took over. On the Jets final drive with less than seven seconds left, the Jets were able to put together a couple of good laterals to keep the play alive, but it wasn't enough as Miami held on for the improbable win, ending what is perhaps the greatest single season turnaround in NFL history - going from 1-15 laughing stock to 11-5 AFC East Champions as the Dolphins did. Pennington got his revenge on his former team as he finished 22 of 30 for 200 yards with two TDs and no INTs. Brett Farve finished 20 of 40 for 233 yards, one TD and three INTs. With the win, Miami won its first AFC East crown since 2000, and made its first playoff appearance since the 2001 season.
Result: Miami 24 New York 17
