Image Source: Yahoo Sports
Dolphins vs Jets delivered a dramatic AFC East surprise Sunday, with Miami defeating New York 28-25 at MetLife Stadium. The victory gave the Dolphins their first win of the 2026 NFL season and added more pressure to a Jets team that fell to 2-5.
Miami entered the matchup at 0-5 after losing its first five games, including a 32-24 defeat to the Cincinnati Bengals on October 11. The Dolphins had a bye week to regroup before traveling north for the divisional clash. New York, meanwhile, was coming off a 26-19 loss to the New England Patriots.
Explosive Dolphins vs Jets Finish Changes the AFC East Picture
The final score highlighted how competitive the rivalry became. Miami stayed within striking distance throughout the afternoon before producing enough offense and defensive resistance to secure a three-point win. The result was especially significant because the Dolphins had been searching for signs of progress after a difficult opening stretch.
According to the supplied Yahoo Sports and SB Nation coverage, the Dolphins had also won the previous meeting between the teams, beating the Jets 34-10 in New York during Week 14 of the 2025 season. Miami’s latest victory further strengthened its recent advantage in the series.
- Final score: Miami Dolphins 28, New York Jets 25
- Location: MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey
- Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
- Miami’s record: 1-5
- New York’s record: 2-5
Critical Win Gives Miami a Needed Lift
For the Dolphins, the importance of the result went beyond the standings. A winless start can quickly damage confidence inside a locker room, but Miami now has tangible evidence that its season is not finished. The victory also came against a division rival on the road, making it one of the team’s most meaningful results of the year.
The Dolphins entered the game as underdogs. FanDuel listed the Jets as 3.5-point favorites, with a projected total of 39.5 points. Miami’s moneyline price was plus 160, reflecting the uncertainty surrounding a team that had yet to win. The final score exceeded that projected total and delivered a result that went against the pregame expectations.
Miami’s success was also notable because the Dolphins had been off the field for a week. The additional preparation time appeared to help the team reset following the Bengals loss. While one victory does not erase the problems revealed during the first five games, it gives Miami an opportunity to build momentum.
Jets Suffer a Painful Divisional Setback
New York’s defeat was a damaging development in an already challenging season. The Jets had started the day at 2-4 and were attempting to recover from their loss to New England. Instead, they allowed the previously winless Dolphins to leave MetLife Stadium with a road victory.
The outcome could have major consequences for the Jets’ playoff hopes. At 2-5, New York has little margin for error in the AFC East and must quickly correct its issues. Divisional losses are particularly costly because they affect both the standings and potential tiebreakers later in the season.
The game was played under sunny conditions with temperatures in the mid-60s. Brad Allen served as the referee, while Spero Dedes, Adam Archuleta and Aditi Kinkhabwala handled the CBS broadcast. The afternoon setting provided a strong backdrop for one of the most unexpected results of Week 7.
What Comes Next for Miami and New York?
Miami can now use its first win as a foundation for the second half of the season. The Dolphins still face a difficult climb from 1-5, but improved execution and confidence could change the tone around the team. The victory also gives players and coaches a positive result to point toward during the coming week.
The Jets, meanwhile, must respond quickly. A loss to a previously winless divisional opponent can create additional scrutiny for the coaching staff, offense and defense. New York needs a strong performance in its next game to prevent the defeat from becoming the defining moment of its season.
The Dolphins vs Jets rivalry once again produced drama, but this time Miami took control at the finish. The 28-25 result gave the Dolphins a much-needed breakthrough while leaving the Jets with difficult questions about their direction in 2026.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the final score of Dolphins vs Jets?
The Miami Dolphins defeated the New York Jets 28-25 at MetLife Stadium on Sunday, October 25, 2026.
Did the Dolphins win their first game of the 2026 season?
Yes. Miami entered the matchup 0-5 and earned its first victory by beating New York on the road.
What are the teams’ records after the game?
The Dolphins improved to 1-5, while the Jets dropped to 2-5 following the divisional loss.
Where was the game played?
The game took place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
Who was favored before kickoff?
FanDuel listed the Jets as 3.5-point favorites, with a 39.5-point over-under and Miami at plus 160 on the moneyline.
