The Buffalo Bills are set to host the Miami Dolphins on Thursday night at Highmark Stadium, kicking off Week 3 with an exciting matchup in the AFC East. This game holds particular significance as it marks the last time the division-leading Bills will face the Dolphins in their current stadium before relocating across the street in 2026. Fans, known as Bills Mafia, are expected to fill the stadium with their iconic “goodbye for now” chant, adding an emotional layer to this storied rivalry.
Despite the long-standing history between Buffalo and Miami, labeling the Dolphins as a fierce “rival” feels somewhat disingenuous given the recent dynamics. Historically, the rivalry has been characterized by streaks; the Dolphins notably dominated the Bills with a 20-game winning streak during the 1970s. However, the tide has shifted dramatically, with the Bills winning 12 out of the last 13 matchups. This shift underscores not just the performance on the field but also highlights the contrasting team building philosophies between the two franchises.
The Dolphins have had General Manager Chris Grier overseeing their roster since 2016, the longest tenure for an NFL GM without a playoff win. Grier has navigated the hiring of multiple head coaches, including Adam Gase, Brian Flores, and Mike McDaniel, while attempting to establish a winning culture. Notably, Grier selected Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa with the fifth overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, following the much-discussed “Tank for Tua” strategy. However, his decision to pass on Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert, who was selected right after by the Los Angeles Chargers, has been a point of contention.
After a challenging start to the Tua Era, Grier brought in the innovative Mike McDaniel, known for his creative offensive schemes. In 2022, Tua, alongside star receiver Tyreek Hill and first-round pick Jaylen Waddle, formed one of the league’s most dynamic offenses. However, injuries, particularly multiple concussions for Tua, overshadowed their potential success and shifted the narrative from “Is he any good?” to “If he can stay on the field, this offense can shine.”
As the Dolphins enter this matchup against the Bills with an 0-2 record, rumors of a complete organizational overhaul are circulating among fans. Grier’s decision to invest in a quarterback like Tua necessitates a specific type of team around him. Unfortunately, the Dolphins have often struggled with their offensive line, frequently ranking among the league's bottom half. This has heightened the risk for an already injury-prone quarterback.
Moreover, the Dolphins lack a competent downhill running game, which is essential for a balanced offense. Relying on undersized players like Devon Achane to lead their rushing attack reflects a broader issue with team identity, leaning heavily into speed and finesse rather than physicality. This approach has contributed to their struggles against tougher teams, especially in a league that emphasizes both passing and stopping the pass.
In contrast, the Bills, under the leadership of General Manager Brandon Beane and head coach Sean McDermott, have built a cohesive and balanced team. Their success largely stems from selecting the right quarterback in Josh Allen, whose talent elevates the entire roster. Beane has been strategic in acquiring veteran players to support Allen’s development, ensuring that he isn’t forced into a leadership role too early.
Beane’s acquisition of Stefon Diggs as a true 1 receiver has been instrumental in Allen’s growth, while a focus on strengthening the offensive line has paid dividends. This thoughtful approach has allowed the Bills to cultivate a balanced identity, maximizing their quarterback’s potential while mitigating risks.
As the Bills prepare to face the Dolphins, the differences in their team-building strategies could not be more pronounced. While Miami has struggled with identity and consistency, Buffalo has found success through careful planning and execution. This matchup not only serves as a reminder of the storied rivalry but also highlights the contrasting paths each franchise has taken in pursuit of success in the AFC East.
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