Sports Update: The Dolphins

By: Bennett Szafranski (12th)

For the first time in nearly a decade, the Miami Dolphins are relevant in the National Football League as they continue to succeed this season. If the football team continues to play as well as they are right now, they could be in the playoffs for the first time since 2016. A lot has changed since then as star cornerback Xavien Howard is the only player remaining on their roster from six years ago. One of the biggest reasons for their recent success is their head coach, Mike McDaniel, who is doing an excellent job, especially for his first season. He has completely changed the team environment, which has been immensely beneficial to the players.

Despite their success, the Dolphins have continued to receive criticism throughout the year. At the beginning of the season, the team was criticized for how they handled quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s concussion. In addition, after the team lost back-to-back games, the media blamed Mike McDaniel and Tagovailoa and continue to do so. Once again, in their loss to the Packers, Tagovailoa suffered a concussion and is out indefinitely. Considering that this team needs to win badly to get into the playoffs, their chances have grown slim after the injury. Even with all these news stories, the team has not let the negativity get to their heads and continue to give one hundred percent every week.

Many students have also enjoyed watching them do so well thus far. “It is a great feeling to see them do so well this season. I have had a great time going to the games and hopefully, I can go to one in the playoffs,” said Yossi Shaulson (12th grade). “I am not going to say anything else so I don’t jinx myself.”

Like every other football team, the Dolphins have their challenges when in season. Despite this, however, much of the Hebrew Academy student body remains a loyal watch-party.