Week 10 NFL Recap: Dolphins Upset Bills, Patriots Eye AFC Top Seed
In Week 10 of the NFL season, Miami delivered a surprise victory over Buffalo, snapping the Bills' early‑season momentum and reshaping the AFC East race. The Dolphins secured a 28‑21 win on the road, capitalising on a late‑game drive that featured a balanced attack of short passes and a decisive rushing touchdown in the final minutes.
Buffalo entered the matchup with a 7‑2 record and was favoured to win, having averaged 28.4 points per game while limiting opponents to just 16.7 points. Miami, at 5‑4, improved its offensive output to 24.3 points per game after a mid‑season coaching adjustment that emphasised quicker releases from the quarterback and more aggressive play‑calling on third down. The Dolphins' defense also forced three turnovers, including a critical interception that set up the game‑winning score.
The result has broader implications for the AFC playoff picture. With the win, Miami climbs to 6‑4, keeping them within striking distance of the division lead. Meanwhile, the Bills remain tied with the New England Patriots at 8‑2, joining the Denver Broncos and Indianapolis Colts as the only AFC teams with two losses. All four clubs are now vying for the coveted top seed, which guarantees home‑field advantage throughout the postseason.
New England, which posted a 31‑24 victory over a struggling opponent earlier in the week, continues to rely on a stout defence that has allowed just 17.2 points per game, the second‑best in the conference. Analysts note that the Patriots' balanced roster and experience in close games give them an edge, but they must still address inconsistencies on the offensive line that have led to three sacks per game on average.
Looking ahead, the Patriots face a crucial stretch of games against fellow AFC contenders. Their upcoming schedule includes matchups with the Broncos and the Colts, both of which feature potent offenses that could test New England's defensive resilience. If the Patriots can maintain their current win‑loss ratio and avoid injuries, they are well positioned to claim the AFC’s top seed and secure a first‑round bye in the playoffs.
