It’s always a bit surprising when a team as high-profile as the Miami Dolphins is excluded from something as significant as the NFL Top 100 Plays List, which celebrates the most exciting, memorable, and electrifying moments in the league each season. The NFL Top 100 Plays list is an annual highlight, often reflecting incredible individual achievements, game-changing plays, and iconic moments that become etched in the minds of fans.
Why Were the Dolphins Excluded?
While the Dolphins have certainly had their fair share of standout moments and plays, there could be a number of reasons why they were excluded from this particular list:
1. Lack of Major Playmakers on the National Stage
The NFL Top 100 Plays List often highlights the most dramatic moments from the season, especially those that come from iconic plays or high-profile athletes. Teams like the Kansas City Chiefs with Patrick Mahomes or the Arizona Cardinals with DeAndre Hopkins have more exposure due to their star power and frequent national TV appearances. While the Dolphins have talented players like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, they might not have had a standout moment that garnered the same level of attention across a wide audience.
2. Team Performance and Playoffs
The NFL Top 100 Plays List often takes into account not just individual plays but also the overall success of the team. Teams that go deep into the playoffs or make a significant Super Bowl run tend to feature more prominently in the list. The Dolphins have had solid seasons, but they haven’t consistently made deep playoff runs or clinched high-profile postseason victories in recent years, which may have hurt their chances of getting onto the list.
3. Competition with Other Teams
The NFL season is packed with breathtaking plays, and each year there’s an intense competition for spots on the Top 100 Plays list. While the Dolphins certainly have explosive athletes, they face stiff competition from teams with more prolific offenses and defenses or from plays that generated more viral or media-driven moments. This can make it harder for a team like the Dolphins to break into a list that tends to favor plays from teams with higher national profiles or more attention-grabbing moments.
Notable Dolphins Plays That Could Have Made the List
Even though the Dolphins were excluded, there are a few plays and moments from recent seasons that might have made a case for inclusion:
Tyreek Hill’s Incredible Catch and Run
Tyreek Hill, one of the most explosive wide receivers in the league, has delivered several jaw-dropping performances since joining the Dolphins. His speed and ability to turn a routine catch into a game-changing play make him a constant threat. A few of his highlight-reel plays from deep routes, one-handed grabs, and ridiculous speed on slant routes could have been contenders for the list.
Jaylen Waddle’s Breakout Moments
Waddle, another dynamic wide receiver, has also had his fair share of standout performances. His speed, route-running, and ability to make defenders miss in the open field give him the potential for big, explosive plays. If he broke a long touchdown or made a crazy catch, it could have easily been a contender for the list.
Tua Tagovailoa’s Progress and Clutch Moments
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has shown flashes of brilliance and has the potential to deliver huge moments for the Dolphins. Whether it was a game-winning touchdown pass or a spectacular throw in a crucial moment, Tua’s growing reputation as the Dolphins’ franchise quarterback could have earned him a place on the list.
Defensive Highlights
While the Dolphins’ offense has attracted a lot of attention, their defense, led by players like Xavien Howard, has produced several key moments. A critical interception, sack, or game-saving stop by the defense could have earned a spot, especially considering the importance of defensive plays in clutch situations.
What This Means for the Dolphins Going Forward
Despite being excluded from the NFL Top 100 Plays List, the Dolphins have a lot of potential moving forward. With the right combination of offense, defense, and special teams playmakers, they have the ability to produce unforgettable moments in the seasons to come. As Miami continues to build under head coach Mike McDaniel, they are poised to be a team that creates more memorable plays and moments that could eventually earn a spot on future Top 100 lists.
With players like Hill, Waddle, and Tua leading the charge, the Dolphins’ offense is set to be a major force in the league. As they continue to develop and evolve, expect Miami to be a team to watch in the years ahead. They might not have made the list this time, but that just leaves more room for future plays to take center stage.