The Miami Dolphins playoff hopes will likely hinge on backup quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. The team announced earlier in the week that Tua Tagovailoa was once again in concussion protocol following the Christmas Day loss to the Green Bay Packers. And on Wednesday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that it would be Bridgewater under center for the Dolphins Week 17 game.
Dolphins-Patriots Line Movement: Teddy Bridgewater Starting
Shortly after the news was announced that Tua Tagovailoa was concussed and Teddy Bridgewater would be under center in Week 17, the Patriots jumped to 3-point home favorites (on DraftKings). Miami opened as a 2.5-point favorite but has been dealing with some issues even before losing Tagovailoa.
When the Dolphins began their season 8-3, they were among the favorites to win the Super Bowl and Tagovailoa was considered an MVP threat. But after losing its past four games, Miami is suddenly in jeopardy of missing out on the postseason altogether.
With fans and media members alike calling for the Dolphins to shut down Tagovailoa, head coach Mike McDaniel remained mum on what’s to come for the quarterback.
“I’ve been advised by medical professionals that Tua worries only about the day that he’s currently in and nothing else,” McDaniel told reporters Wednesday. “I take that very seriously and worry about his health first and foremost and take the advice of the medical professionals.”
To clinch a postseason spot in Week 17, The Dolphins need to beat the Patriots and have the New York Jets lose or tie against the Seattle Seahawks, but they could also get in with a tie coupled with losses by the Jets and Steelers. Miami is a -220 favorite to make the postseason (FanDuel) despite their recent stretch of play.
OddsShopper will continue to track any more updates on the condition of Tagovailoa. In the meantime, be sure to check OddsShopper’s tools for the best game lines and player props for the remainder of the NFL season.
