The Miami Dolphins will highlight their 2024 season’s scheduled primetime slot in a Week 17 showdown against the Cleveland Browns on Sunday Night Football. However, there’s already speculation that this game might not hold onto its coveted evening timeslot, depending on how the season unfolds for both teams.
Despite it being early days, the possibility of the game being flexed out remains on the minds of many. It’s a scenario not yet considered likely, but the very notion has Dolphins fans buzzing about other fixtures that could potentially be spotlighted in primetime slots. Below are four matchups that are generating particular interest as we edge closer to the kickoff of the regular season:
**Dolphins vs. Jets – Week 14 & Week 18**
In a repeat of last season’s dramatic quest for the division title where the Dolphins and Bills were front and center, this year, it appears the New York Jets are pegged to be Miami’s key contenders within the AFC East. The Dolphins are set to face the Jets twice; initially in Miami during Week 14, and then wrapping up the regular season in Week 18.
The possibility of the AFC East title hanging in the balance come Week 18’s rematch in New York has fans and analysts alike contemplating a primetime slot. Not to mention, Week 14’s game also holds its own intrigue as a potential preview of the stakes to come.
**San Francisco at Miami – Week 16**
The Dolphins’ faceoff against the San Francisco 49ers in Week 16 might seem an unlikely candidate for a schedule shakeup, primarily because the NFL seldom moves out-of-conference games to primetime. Nonetheless, should both teams be vying for crucial postseason positions or divisional titles, the matchup could garner consideration. Yet, the smart money says not to count on a switch.
**Dolphins at Texans – Week 15**
Week 15’s game where the Dolphins visit the Houston Texans presents an exciting prospect for fans. This matchup pits two non-division rivals against each other, potentially both in the hunt for division supremacy or a Wild Card birth.
In such a scenario, the game could have significant playoff implications, especially if tiebreaker criteria come into play. This game stands out as an excellent opportunity for the NFL to feature a pivotal contest in its flexible scheduling, bringing a potentially critical game into the limelight.
As the season approaches, the anticipation around these matchups only intensifies, with the potential for primetime flexing adding an extra layer of excitement for Dolphins fans and football enthusiasts alike.