Miami Dolphins issue statement on turf conditions, replace entire field

The Miami Dolphins were able to remain undefeated inside the Hard Rock Stadium with their victory over the New York Jets, but poor field conditions have once again taken center stage. Sunday’s matchup took place after Saturday’s contest between Syracuse and Miami, leaving the field in less-than-ideal shape for the clash between AFC East rivals.

The poor field conditions received criticism from coaches and players alike, leading to the Dolphins releasing the following comments on the state of the turf inside the stadium:

“The field today was safe to play on, but was not up to the standard we expect from a playability standpoint,” the team said in a statement. “It was a new field for this game that was put in earlier in the week. We’re working to rectify the situation and expect better conditions moving forward.”

This is not the first time this season the field inside the Hard Rock has been criticized, as a preseason game between the Dolphins and Ravens led to comments about the grass in Miami.

The next big test for Miami’s field will come at the start of November, when the Dolphins host the Raiders the day after the Hurricanes play Virginia Tech inside Hard Rock Stadium.

The Dolphins on Monday tore out the turf and are relaying the entire field, with no games scheduled at the site until the Hurricanes and Virginia Tech on November 4.