The Miami Dolphins are gearing up to take on the New York Jets this Sunday at Hard Rock Stadium in an exciting Week 15 matchup. With a strong 9-4 record so far this season, the Dolphins are looking to continue their winning streak and solidify their position in the playoffs.

Throughout the season, Miami has shown great prowess in both their offense and defense, although they haven't consistently delivered standout performances in both areas simultaneously. Despite this, the team remains confident and determined to bring their A-game against the Jets.

The Jets, on the other hand, have had a bumpy season. While their defense has been impressive, their struggles on offense have greatly impacted their chances of reaching the postseason. The recent Week 14 victory over the Houston Texans showcased rookie quarterback Zach Wilson's potential, but the team will need to string together more consistent performances in order to turn their season around.

In terms of historical matchups, the Dolphins hold a 59-56-1 all-time record against the Jets. Over the past decade, Miami has dominated their encounters, boasting a solid 17-10 record. Additionally, the Dolphins have particularly thrived at their home stadium, with an 8-5 record against the Jets at Hard Rock Stadium during that same period.

Looking back at their most recent clash on Black Friday, the Dolphins emerged victorious with a convincing 34-13 win over the Jets. However, it's worth noting that Wilson did not play in that game, as Tim Boyle stepped in as quarterback for the Jets.

As both teams prepare for Sunday's game, practice sessions have differed. The Dolphins have primarily focused on walkthroughs, while the Jets have held full practices, aiming to fine-tune their tactics and strategies.

In terms of player availability, several Dolphins players were absent from Thursday's practice. Running back De'Von Achane, offensive lineman Liam Eichenberg, safety DeShon Elliott, and wide receiver Tyreek Hill did not participate. Meanwhile, left tackle Terron Armstead, safety Jevon Holland, cornerback Xavien Howard, right tackle Austin Jackson, running back Raheem Mostert, and linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel were limited.

For the Jets, wide receiver Jason Brownlee and offensive lineman Carter Warren were unable to participate in Thursday's practice. Running back Nick Bawden, defensive lineman John Franklin-Myers, running back Breece Hall, offensive lineman Max Mitchell, and offensive lineman Joe Tippman were all limited.

Aside from the on-field action, there are several connections between the coaching staff and players of both teams. Dolphins outside linebacker coach Ryan Slowik previously served as the Jets' assistant defensive line coach in 2015. Jets senior defensive assistant/cornerbacks coach Tony Oden has experience with the Dolphins, having served as their defensive backs coach in 2018 and safeties coach in 2019. Jets special teams coordinator Brant Boyer, meanwhile, played linebacker for the Dolphins back in 1994.

Furthermore, several players have crossed paths between both teams. Dolphins running back Raheem Mostert spent time on the Jets' practice squad in 2019, while Dolphins wide receiver Braxton Berrios played for the Jets from 2019 to 2022. Dolphins quarterback Mike White also played for the Jets during the same period. Dolphins defensive back Elijah Campbell previously played for the Jets in 2020, and Dolphins tight end Tyler Kroft joined the team in 2021 after a stint with the Jets. Jets offensive tackle Billy Turner previous played for the Dolphins from 2014 to 2016, while Jets linebacker Sam Eguavoen played for the Dolphins from 2019 to 2022. Jets punter Thomas Morstead briefly joined the Dolphins in 2022.

As the Dolphins gear up for their clash against the Jets, the Miami faithful are hopeful for a resounding victory at home. The highly-anticipated Week 15 matchup is expected to be a thrilling battle between these long-standing rivals, and football fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome.