The Miami Dolphins are set to embark on an important journey to break their long-standing playoff win drought, starting with a crucial game on Thursday night.

“They need to demonstrate that they can defeat the Buffalo Bills,” stated former NFL lineman Andrew Whitworth during a conference call with reporters leading up to the “Thursday Night Football” matchup (8:15 p.m. ET, Prime Video).

A victory over the Bills would significantly boost the Dolphins’ chances in the quest for an AFC East title. The Dolphins last clinched this title in 2008, and winning the division would secure them a home playoff game, enhancing their chances of achieving their first postseason victory since 2000.

The rivalry within the AFC East has been predominantly in favor of the Bills recently. Buffalo boasts an impressive 11-1 record against Miami over the last 12 games. This includes two intense matchups at the end of the last two regular seasons, where the Bills narrowly beat the Dolphins in the wild-card playoff round despite having to face Miami’s backup quarterback Skyler Thompson due to Tua Tagovailoa’s injury. Last season, the Bills captured the division title in Week 18, forcing the Dolphins to play in frigid conditions against the Kansas City Chiefs, who won 26-7.

“This team embodies speed and finesse, showcasing explosive capabilities,” added former NFL quarterback Ryan Fitzpatrick, a two-season Dolphin. “However, securing a home playoff game is a priority for them this year. Their experience last year, particularly in that freezing game against Kansas City, really highlighted the importance of it.”

Notably, Mike McDaniel’s offensive scheme thrives on creating explosive plays. Star players like Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, along with running backs Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane, amplify this offense, though Hill will be unavailable on Thursday and Achane’s status is uncertain. Tagovailoa has been consistent in delivering passes, but his struggles in cold weather are concerning; he holds a 1-7 record, with nine touchdowns and 12 interceptions in matches where the temperature dipped below 50 degrees at kickoff.

“If they want to change the narrative, this offense needs more opportunities to play critical games at home during the playoffs,” remarked Whitworth.

He emphasized the necessity of a strong defense and a reliable running game, particularly in colder playoff scenarios, contrasting this approach with the explosive football style suited for the early season. He believes consistency in a more physical, defensive strategy is essential for late-season success.

“A successful run requires integrating these elements,” he noted. “Top-performing teams during playoff runs excel in these aspects.”

Hall of Fame tight end Tony Gonzalez expressed skepticism regarding the Dolphins’ ability to succeed outside Hard Rock Stadium, stating, “I just can’t see the Miami Dolphins making a Super Bowl run away from home.”

Historically, games between the Bills and Dolphins have played key roles in both teams’ aspirations for titles, yet the Dolphins have often found themselves on the losing end.

“They are seen as the stronger team this week,” declared former NFL cornerback and “TNF” analyst Richard Sherman. “On paper, they have the more talented roster. They must win this game.”

Both teams recently pulled off remarkable comebacks, overcoming 14-point deficits; the Bills triumphed over the Arizona Cardinals, 34-28, while the Dolphins secured a last-minute field goal against the Jacksonville Jaguars, winning 20-17.

The weather in Miami on Thursday is expected to be notably warm, with a heat advisory anticipated, and kickoff temperatures around 85 degrees—perfect conditions for the Dolphins.

However, questions will linger about their playoff winless streak until they can showcase the resilience often needed in cold-weather games, even if they manage to win the division and host a playoff game.

“That’s the reality,” warned Whitworth. “They need to exhibit that ability to adapt their style of play, which will instill the confidence necessary for a successful late-season push.”