MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Miami Dolphins owner Stephen Ross stood on the sideline at the end of Sunday’s wild victory, sharing a laugh with those around him, his mind made up regarding the direction of the franchise.
He’s keeping his coach.
The Dolphins will sit out the playoffs for the sixth year in a row despite Sunday’s 37-35 victory over Minnesota, but afterward Ross announced Joe Philbin will return for a fourth season as coach.
“We’re building something great here,” Ross said in the locker room. “He’s the right guy. … I believe in this team. I believe in the coach.”
Ross said his decision wasn’t based on what happened Sunday, but the win certainly helped the Dolphins’ mood after dismal back-to-back losses squashed their playoff hopes.
Philbin, hired in 2012 after spending five years as Green Bay’s offensive coordinator, will be entering the final season of a four-year contract.
Quarterback Ryan Tannehill threw four touchdown passes, and rookie Terrence Fede blocked a punt for a safety with 41 seconds left to conclude a bizarre fourth quarter in which Miami outscored the Vikings, 23-18.
Tannehill went 35 for 47 for 396 yards, and directed an offense that totaled 36 first downs and 493 yards. He shook off a costly interception and two sacks and was knocked down at least eight other times.
Both teams went into the game playing for pride rather than a postseason berth. The Dolphins improved to 8-7 and have a shot at their first winning season since 2008.
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