The Miami Dolphins face a critical matchup against the Cleveland Browns, with their playoff hopes hanging by a thread. A loss for Miami would severely diminish their chances of postseason play, reducing their odds to less than 1%. Conversely, a victory could raise their chances from 10% to 14%, keeping their aspirations alive. Currently holding a 7-8 record, the Dolphins are coming off a solid 29-17 win against the San Francisco 49ers and will need to secure victories in their last two games against the Browns and the New York Jets to remain in contention for the playoffs.

The Browns, tied for the second-worst record in the NFL at 3-12, are in a precarious position as they prepare to host the Dolphins. With their upcoming game against the Baltimore Ravens, Cleveland is faced with the dilemma of playing to win or potentially securing a top draft pick. Dorian Thompson-Robinson will once again start at quarterback, as the Browns might strategically choose to lose to improve their draft position. Thompson-Robinson has struggled this season, yet his ability to run could be a factor against Miami.

As both teams prepare for their showdown, betting odds favor the Dolphins, with a moneyline of -298 compared to the Browns' +240. The spread sits at Miami -6.5, indicating confidence in the Dolphins' ability to secure a win. The total points projected for the game have dropped significantly, reflecting concerns over Cleveland's offensive capabilities, particularly with Thompson-Robinson's lack of touchdown passes this season. Injury reports also play a crucial role, with several key players from both teams listed as questionable or out, impacting their respective game plans.

As the Miami Dolphins prepare for their crucial Week 17 clash against the Cleveland Browns, they face significant challenges with injuries to key defensive players. Linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. and cornerback Kendall Fuller were notably absent from practice due to knee issues, alongside veteran safety Jordan Poyer, who is dealing with both knee and finger injuries. The Dolphins also missed tackle Terron Armstead in practice as he continues to recover from a knee injury.

The injury report for the Dolphins is extensive, with six players listed as limited participants during practice. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who has been on the injury report recently due to a hip issue, along with wide receivers Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, are among those managing injuries. While Tagovailoa was removed from the report last week and played effectively, the status of his health remains a concern as the playoffs approach.

On the other side, the Cleveland Browns are grappling with their own injury woes. Starting tight end David Njoku and defensive end Ogbo Okoronkwo were both sidelined during Thursday's practice. The Browns also placed defensive tackle Shelby Harris on injured reserve, further complicating their defensive strategy ahead of the game. Among the limited participants for Cleveland was left tackle Germain Ifedi, who recently added an Achilles injury to his list of concerns. The team is also monitoring the health of several other players, including quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson and wide receiver Jerry Jeudy, as they look to solidify their roster for the upcoming matchup.