Despite 6-8 record, Miami Dolphins remain in playoff contention _ barely

Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) scrambles for a first down ahead of Jacksonville Jaguars linebackers Russell Allen (50) and Paul Posluszny (51) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in Miami. The Dolphins won 24-3. (AP Photo/The Miami Herald, Al Diaz) MAGS OUT (The Associated Press)

Miami Dolphin's Brian Hartline (82) runs after a reception against Jacksonville Jaguars' Chris Prosinksi (42) during the third quarter of an NFL football game, Sunday, Dec. 16, 2012, in Miami. The Dolphins won 24-3. (AP Photo/The Miami Herald, Al Diaz) MAGS OUT (The Associated Press)

DAVIE, Fla. – It might be easier for the Miami Dolphins to make the playoffs than to explain how it could happen.

Both tasks are daunting.

With two games left in the regular season, seven teams have a better record than Miami (6-8) in the AFC race for six playoff spots. The Dolphins have a 2.3-percent chance of earning a postseason berth, according to the web site MakeNFLPlayoffs.com.

Hey, it beats being mathematically eliminated. And it gives the Dolphins something to play for Sunday against Buffalo (5-9).

The Dolphins have been above .500 for only one week all season. They recently lost five times in a six-game stretch, and they're ranked in the lower half of the league in both offense and defense.

Even so, they remain in the hunt. Barely.

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