The Miami Dolphins took a crucial step toward turning their season around with a commanding 34-19 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders at Hard Rock Stadium. The win moved Miami to 4-6 and within striking distance of a wild card berth in the AFC playoff race.
Tagovailoa Shines in Impressive Stretch
Tua Tagovailoa delivered a near-flawless performance, completing 28 of 36 passes for 288 yards, three touchdowns, and a passer rating of 127.8. His efficiency continues to be a cornerstone of the Dolphins’ resurgence since his return from a concussion in September.
In the four games since his return, Tagovailoa has thrown seven touchdowns to just one interception, completing an astounding 77.7% of his passes. His league-leading 72.4% completion rate this season exemplifies his growth as a quarterback.
“We have the best quarterback in the world, man,” said tight end Jonnu Smith, who was instrumental in Sunday’s win with six receptions for 101 yards and a game-sealing 57-yard touchdown.
Offensive Efficiency Reaches New Heights
The Dolphins’ offense hummed like a well-oiled machine, scoring on six of seven drives. This marked the first game in coach Mike McDaniel’s tenure without a punt, turnover, or turnover on downs.
Miami’s two eight-minute drives to open the game set the tone, a feat not accomplished by any NFL team since 2016. “That shows you’re diligently working at various things,” McDaniel said, emphasizing the balance and patience required to sustain such drives.
Key offensive highlights:
- Tyreek Hill: Seven catches for 61 yards, including a touchdown.
- Jaylen Waddle: Two receptions for 37 yards.
- De’Von Achane: 17 carries for 73 yards, including a 30-yard burst—only the team’s fourth run of 20+ yards this season.
Defensive Standouts and Struggles
While Miami’s defense held the Raiders to 19 points and limited their rushing attack to 60 yards, defending rookie tight end Brock Bowers proved to be a challenge. Bowers torched the Dolphins for 13 receptions and 126 yards, prompting criticism from CBS’ Jay Feely and others.
“Coming out of the draft, we were very high on him,” McDaniel said of Bowers, predicting the rookie’s future as a perennial Pro Bowler.
Despite the difficulties, Miami’s defense had its bright spots. Zach Sieler and Calais Campbell combined for key sacks, while Jalen Ramsey continued his all-around contributions with three pressures and a pass deflection.
Progress Through Competition
McDaniel’s meritocratic approach has seen underperforming veterans replaced by younger, hungrier players. Undrafted rookie Storm Duck received significant snaps over former second-round pick Cam Smith, while Julian Hill has largely supplanted Durham Smythe at tight end.
This commitment to competition was evident in other areas:
- Tyrel Dotson and Jack Stoll: Both made immediate impacts after being claimed off waivers, with Dotson recording 10 tackles.
- Linebacker Anthony Walker: Posted 10 tackles in his third game since replacing David Long Jr., who was released last week.
Playoff Picture Comes Into Focus
The Dolphins’ victory, combined with a loss by the New York Jets, positions Miami just one game behind Denver for the final AFC wild card spot. If they can secure a playoff berth, they would be the first team in 50 years to reach the postseason after starting 2-6.
CBS’ Bill Cowher summed up the Dolphins’ trajectory succinctly: “They’re a playoff contender. Look out for them to get on a roll.”
