Dolphins Struggle in First Half Against Browns
The Miami Dolphins faced off against the Cleveland Browns in Week 7, and the first half was a testament to the challenges the Dolphins have been grappling with all season. From costly penalties to untimely turnovers, the Dolphins’ performance was marred by issues that have plagued them throughout the campaign.
Inactives and Lineup Changes
Before the game even began, the Dolphins’ roster saw some notable changes. Rookie seventh-round pick Quinn Ewers emerged as the No. 2 quarterback, replacing Zach Wilson on the depth chart. Meanwhile, defensive stalwart Matthew Judon was inactive, and cornerback Storm Duck continued to miss games due to an ankle injury sustained in the season opener. Additionally, wide receiver Cedrick Wilson Jr. found himself a healthy scratch for the second consecutive game, while rookie Zeek Biggers was inactive for six of the past seven outings.
First Quarter Review
The Browns surprisingly won the toss and opted to receive, a choice that raised eyebrows given their struggles on offense. The Dolphins’ defense responded effectively, forcing a three-and-out on Cleveland’s opening drive. However, the Dolphins’ initial offensive possession was derailed when De’Von Achane mishandled a backward pass from Tua Tagovailoa, resulting in a five-yard loss. Achane, who has been instrumental for the Dolphins this season, has encountered similar mishaps with dropped passes.
Despite a promising run by Quinshon Judkins, the Dolphins’ defense held firm, limiting Cleveland’s advancement and forcing a field goal. However, two critical penalties marred Miami’s efforts. A defensive holding call on Chop Robinson raised questions about its legitimacy, while Zach Sieler’s roughing-the-passer penalty was a clear infraction after he made contact with quarterback Dillon Gabriel’s helmet.
Achane showcased his explosiveness with a remarkable 46-yard run, aided by rookie Jonah Savaiinaea’s block that created space. Yet, Miami’s red zone struggles continued, with the team settling for yet another field goal.
Second Quarter Struggles
The Dolphins’ inability to capitalize on scoring opportunities became increasingly evident. After the Browns took the lead with a 46-yard touchdown run from Judkins, a defensive pass interference call on Minkah Fitzpatrick negated what could have been a pivotal interception by Ashtyn Davis. This pattern of misfortune continued, as another long run by Judkins resulted in a touchdown, pushing Miami to a 10-3 deficit.
A fumble on the ensuing kickoff by Dee Eskridge intensified the Dolphins’ mounting issues. The defense faltered again, allowing a third-and-11 conversion after Robinson jumped offside, showcasing the lack of discipline that has characterized the season. Jaelan Phillips was flagged for roughness after misjudging a hit on Gabriel, further compounding Miami’s woes.
The Dolphins’ offense struggled to find its rhythm, with missed opportunities becoming a familiar theme. An illegal contact penalty gave them a chance to advance, but they ultimately lost yardage due to missed blocks and a dropped snap that disrupted a planned swing pass.
As the half drew to a close, the Dolphins managed to mount a drive, starting from the Cleveland 40-yard line. A false start and a sack quickly derailed their momentum, but Achane, demonstrating his talent once again, broke free for a 23-yard run that provided a glimmer of hope. The Dolphins caught a break when Riley Patterson’s missed field goal attempt was negated by a penalty against the Browns, but a low snap from Aaron Brewer resulted in yet another hurdle.
Ultimately, Miami managed a field goal, heading into halftime trailing 17-6. The performance was riddled with mistakes, leaving fans to wonder if the Dolphins could rally in the second half or if they were destined for another disappointing outing.
