Overview
- The 13-3 Patriots, already AFC East champions, host Miami in Week 18 with the top seed still possible if the Chargers defeat the Broncos.
- Miami will start seventh-round rookie Quinn Ewers for a third straight game after benching Tua Tagovailoa, with Ewers coming off a two-touchdown, zero-interception win over Tampa Bay.
- Key Dolphins absences loom: De’Von Achane is listed as doubtful, Darren Waller is on injured reserve, Minkah Fitzpatrick is out, and Jaylen Waddle is questionable.
- Patriots reinforcements are expected, with left tackle Will Campbell returning from a four-game absence and defensive tackle Milton Williams trending toward a return as New England rides a 12-of-13 surge behind Drake Maye’s MVP buzz.
- Mike McDaniel’s job status remains a talking point, with reports of front-office changes and Troy Aikman’s consulting role fueling speculation this could be his final game.