Dolphins prepare for challenging 2026 season with key matchups

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 4, 2026, 4:10 PM

Last updated Jun 4, 2026

Dolphins prepare for challenging 2026 season with key matchups
Summary

The Miami Dolphins enter the 2026 NFL season with a difficult schedule, facing nine playoff teams from the past two years. They kick off the season on the road against the Las Vegas Raiders, who are expected to start Kirk Cousins over rookie Fernando Mendoza. Key matchups include Week 7 against the New York Jets, where Head Coach Jeff Hafley will face a team that struggled offensively last season. A critical late-season game occurs in Week 15 against the Green Bay Packers, a challenging cold-weather matchup. The Dolphins also conclude the regular season against the New England Patriots, a game that could have significant playoff implications, mirroring their Week 18 matchup last year.

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Status Watch
  • Dolphins open the season at the Raiders in Week 1.
  • They face the Jets in Week 7, aiming for another sweep.
  • Week 15 matchup against the Packers takes place in cold conditions.
  • Final game against the Patriots could determine playoff positioning.
  • Malik Willis debuts as the starting quarterback for Miami.
Latest Updates
  • 4:10 PMYahoo SportsWhich 4 Games Will Define the Miami Dolphins’ 2026 Season?
What they're saying
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The Miami Dolphins come into the season with the second-toughest schedule. Nine of the 17 teams that Miami will play this season have made the playoffs in the past two seasons. There are many familiar foes on the Dolphins’ schedule. There are a handful of games in particular, however, that the Fins and their fans […] The post Which 4 Games Will Define the Miami Dolphins’ 2026 Season? appeared first on The Lead.

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