Miami Dolphins: 5 reasons for optimism

Nov 8, 2015; Orchard Park, NY, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) throws a pass under pressure by Buffalo Bills defensive tackle Marcell Dareus (99) during the second half at Ralph Wilson Stadium. The Bills beat the Dolphins 33-17. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports

The Miami Dolphins currently sit in last place in their division with a 3-5 record, making them the best team in the NFL record-wise to be in the basement of their division. It’s a testament to just how tough the AFC East is with the undefeated New England Patriots at the top, the playoff-worthy New York Jets in second, and the tricky Buffalo Bills (they blew out the Dolphins in Week 9) sitting in third place with a 4-4 record.

ALSO ON SPIN ZONE: Was Don Shula the greatest coach in NFL history?

It’s hard to see the Dolphins making the playoffs, but interim head coach Dan Campbell said that he is “optimistic” that the Dolphins can make it to the postseason, which he says as a “doable” task.

Despite the fact that the Dolphins haven’t won a single game against a division opponent and have been swept by the third-place Bills in two blowout losses, I’m not willing to stick a fork in this team just yet. Again, their chances of making the playoffs are slim, and it is worth noting that 3-5 teams make the playoffs just 7% of the time.

Let’s take a look at five reasons why the Dolphins still have a shot at sneaking in, as we make an effort to support Campbell’s optimism of his team. For the record, I don’t think the Dolphins have a realistic shot due to their remaining schedule (they have only two “give me” opponents with a margin for error of just one or two losses), but it’s always nice to try and find reasons for optimism when analyzing a team’s chances.

Next: Top-Heavy Conference