Miami Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle had an outstanding performance against the New England Patriots.
The fourth-year receiver recorded eight receptions for 144 yards – the second-highest total of his career – and a touchdown in the Dolphins' 34-15 win.
Waddle's 23-yard touchdown gave the Dolphins a 31-point lead and effectively put the game out of reach despite a late 15-point lead by New England in the fourth quarter.
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It was without a doubt Waddle's best game of 2024, as the receiver posted season-highs in receptions and yards. With Tyreek Hill still dealing with a wrist injury, the Dolphins needed Waddle to take a big step forward. Before Sunday, his only 100-yard performance came in Week 1 against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
His performance in Week 12 showed he has the ability to take over a game with momentum-changing plays. In addition to his 23-yard touchdown, Waddle also recorded receptions for 29 and 24 yards. Six of Waddle's eight receptions resulted in a first down and a seventh was a touchdown.
Since selecting Waddle in the 2021 NFL draft, the Dolphins are now 9-3 in games in which Waddle scores at least 100 yards. If he can continue to perform at a high level in addition to the contributions of Hill and De'Von Achane, it will be very difficult for the rest of the AFC to keep the Dolphins out of the playoffs.
