Dolphins Overcome Adversity with Narrow Victory Against Buccaneers
The Miami Dolphins rebounded impressively from a disheartening loss to the Cincinnati Bengals last week, edging out the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a thrilling 20-17 victory. This win boosts the Dolphins’ record to 7-9 for the season, showcasing their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. With a combination of solid defense and an efficient running game, Miami took control for much of the contest, bolstered by significant contributions from several rookies on both sides of the ball.
Drive-by-Drive Breakdown
Miami’s offense initially struggled to find its rhythm, going three-and-out on its opening possession. A holding penalty on Cedrick Wilson negated a promising play, a screen pass to Malik Washington that could have shifted momentum. The Buccaneers capitalized on this misstep, orchestrating a 14-play, 68-yard drive that culminated in a touchdown. Baker Mayfield connected with Chris Godwin in the end zone, putting Tampa Bay ahead 7-0.
However, the Dolphins quickly responded. On their next drive, rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers threw his first career touchdown pass to a wide-open Theo Wease Jr., who raced 63 yards for the score, leveling the game at 7-7.
The momentum shifted in Miami’s favor when the defense halted Tampa Bay’s next drive. Despite facing a fourth-and-one at midfield, Buccaneers head coach Todd Bowles opted to punt, allowing Miami to take over. The Dolphins then leaned on their running game, with a standout 32-yard run from Jaylen Wright setting up a field goal that gave them a 10-7 lead.
Rookie defensive back Jason Marshall Jr. made a crucial play on the Buccaneers’ ensuing drive, intercepting Mayfield after initially being beaten by Jalen McMillan. Miami capitalized, driving 76 yards downfield and extending their lead to 17-7 with Ewers finding tight end Greg Dulcich for a touchdown on third-and-goal.
As the first half drew to a close, the Dolphins’ defense continued to shine. A blocked field goal by rookie defensive tackle Zeek Biggers thwarted Tampa Bay’s chance to score before halftime, allowing Miami to enter the locker room with a 17-7 advantage.
The Dolphins started the second half strong, forcing a quick three-and-out from the Buccaneers. However, the momentum shifted again as Tampa Bay managed to drive 50 yards on 13 plays, reducing Miami’s lead to 17-10 with a field goal. The Dolphins responded with a field goal of their own, pushing the score to 20-10 after a solid kickoff return by Malik Washington set up favorable field position.
Despite Miami’s efforts, the Buccaneers managed to make things interesting with a late touchdown drive, narrowing the gap to 20-17. Yet, the Dolphins’ Achane recovered the onside kick attempt, sealing the game.
Offensive Insights
The Dolphins’ offense showed marked improvement against the Buccaneers. Ewers appeared comfortable in his second start, completing 14 of 22 passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns without any interceptions. His willingness to take shots downfield provided a much-needed spark, suggesting a promising future for the seventh-round pick.
The running game was another highlight, with De’Von Achane leading the charge with 83 yards on 18 carries, complemented by 29 receiving yards. Jaylen Wright also contributed significantly, totaling 56 yards on just five carries.
In the receiving department, tight end Greg Dulcich emerged as a reliable target, catching five passes for 58 yards and a touchdown. Although Jaylen Waddle left the game early due to a rib injury, Miami got a timely boost from Theo Wease, who recorded his first career touchdown.
Defensive Performance
Miami’s defense delivered a solid performance, holding the Buccaneers to 380 total yards, with 346 coming through the air and just 53 on the ground. While the pass rush struggled to apply consistent pressure on Mayfield, the Dolphins excelled in critical situations, limiting Tampa Bay to six conversions on 13 third downs.
Jason Marshall’s interception and Ashtyn Davis’s late-game pick in the red zone were pivotal moments that prevented the Buccaneers from adding to their score. Mayfield finished with an impressive line of 33 completions on 44 attempts for 346 yards, but his two interceptions proved costly.
Miami’s run defense was particularly effective, limiting Tampa Bay’s leading rusher, Bucky Irving, to a mere 19 yards on nine carries. The Dolphins’ interior defensive line, including Zach Sieler and Kenneth Grant, showcased strong performances throughout the game.
However, the Dolphins did face injury setbacks, with edge rusher Chop Robinson ruled out due to a concussion and linebacker Jordyn Brooks exiting in the second half.
With this victory, the Miami Dolphins not only showcased their capability to recover from setbacks but also reinforced their potential as they look ahead to the remainder of the season.
