Win, and they don’t just sink the bully Patriots to below .500. They’ve also got a chance for the playoffs — a good chance, considering the suddenly friendly closing schedule. The next opponent, Vegas, has lost lost four of five (and lost quarterback Derek Carr). The finale could mean nothing more to Buffalo than a day of rest.
But lose to New England on Sunday and the candle isn’t just blowing out on the Dolphins season. It’s again the Patriots, and a lesser form of them, providing the wind.
As always, this December re-match has one team trying keep the playoff train moving and the other playing the limited role of spoiler.