The Miami Dolphins head to Los Angeles on Monday night to take on the Rams in a game that could determine if they keep their playoff hopes alive.
Sitting at 2-6, the Dolphins are running out of time to turn their season around, and a matchup against the Rams’ resurging defense won’t make the task any easier.
But if Miami has one clear reason to be optimistic, it’s the impressive rise of second-year running back De’Von Achane.
The former Texas A&M star proved himself to be an indispensable part of Miami’s offense this season, adding speed and versatility to a lineup that struggled early on without quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who was out with a concussion for the third time in his professional career.
Since Tagovailoa’s return two games ago, Achane has flourished, combining for more than 220 yards from scrimmage and three touchdowns.
Last week, against the Buffalo Bills, he posted a balanced 63 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground, while adding 58 receiving yards and another score in Miami’s close 30-27 loss.
“He’s incredible. He’s a special talent. He’s probably the most confident guy I’ve ever been around, and that says a lot for somebody that’s so young into his journey and his career,” Miami offensive tackle Terron Armstead said of Achane during his midweek media availability. “But his confidence, his belief in his ability and his preparation is through the roof. So, it’s no surprise to us in this building what he is doing.”
His skill-set of being very mobile while also having reliable hands has helped him emerge as a dependable asset that provided a spark for a Dolphins offense still searching for the explosiveness it displayed in 2023.
“I feel like, catching footballs, it really comes natural to me growing up and I always played running back,” Achane said this week, when asked about his pass-catching chops. “But I played other positions, as well, as far as playing receiver in the slot. So, when it comes to catching the football, it’s like me running the football. That’s how I think of it.”
Achane represents the Dolphins’ best hope to match the Rams’ offense with big plays of their own. He has at least 100 yards and a touchdown in all four games Tagovailoa has started this season.
As Achane continues to expand his role in the Dolphins’ offense, he could be the X factor in a game Miami can’t afford to lose if they want a chance at the postseason.
While Miami continues to develop Achane, the team will need strong performances across the board to beat a Rams team on a three-game win streak.
Los Angeles (4-4) has looked revitalized following the return of wide receivers Cooper Kupp and Puka Nacua, who have given veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford ample options in the passing game. Miami’s defense, which has struggled to close out games, will need to stay sharp against one of the league’s top passing attacks.
Miami has been particularly strong against the pass, allowing just 183.1 yards per game, the fourth-best mark in the league.
However, Miami has struggled to get consistent pressure on opposing quarterbacks, with just 10 sacks on the season. The team will need a standout performance from linebacker Jordyn Brooks, who leads the team with 35 tackles, to contain Los Angeles running back Kyren Williams and Stafford.
“I know first and foremost, we are absolutely convicted in this team being better than the win-loss column right now,” Miami coach Mike McDaniel said, referring to the belief the Dolphins are rolling with. “And [we] believe that it can make a turn, and that’s how we’re approaching each and every day.”
Monday’s kickoff at SoFi Stadium is scheduled for 8:15 p.m. ET on ESPN.
