Dolphins RB Jay Ajayi makes it back-to-back 200-yard games

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. -- Last week, Miami Dolphins running back Jay Ajayi became the first NFL player to reach 200 yards rushing in a game this season. On Sunday, he also became the second player to accomplish that feat.

Ajayi added 214 rushing yards in Sunday's 28-25 win over the Buffalo Bills. According to ESPN Stats & Information research, Ajayi is just the fourth player in the Super Bowl era to post back-to-back 200-yard rushing games. The last player to do it was former Dolphins running back Ricky Williams in 2002.

The only other players to hit the mark were Earl Campbell (1980) and O.J. Simpson, who did it twice (1976 and 1973).

After the game Sunday, Ajayi said he's excited to be in such exclusive company.

"I wouldn't have called you crazy because it's something that I envisioned for myself. I want to see myself on that level," Ajayi said. "I believe I still have a lot of work to do and I have to keep pushing forward. But I've always had the confidence in my talent and ability."

The former fifth-round pick became an unexpected, emerging star for Miami after losing the starting job to veteran Arian Foster in the preseason. Ajayi didn't make the trip in Week 1 against the Seattle Seahawks because the team was unhappy with the way he handled the benching.

However, Dolphins coaches have been impressed with Ajayi's work ethic and preparation since that point, and it has paid off. Ajayi has been on fire the past two weeks with 418 rushing yards and three touchdowns against the Steelers and Bills.

Ajayi and the offensive line have been the biggest bright spots for Miami (3-4) during its two-game win streak.

"I believe that I'm catching my stride right now and continuing to do well," Ajayi said. "Just keep being consistent -- that's my main focus. At the running back position, in our room, we want to be the best players on the field at all times."

However, Ajayi's 54 carries the past two games have caused some wear and tear. Ajayi pulled himself from the game late in the fourth quarter Sunday due to cramps.

"Luckily we have a bye week, so it's all good," Ajayi said. "That's the most carries I've had in a long time. I just gotta keep working on hydration, but cramps are going to happen sometimes."

The Dolphins will take a two-week break before returning to the field with a home game on Nov. 6 against the New York Jets (2-5).