The Miami Dolphins must quickly fill the void after losing Tyreek Hill to a serious knee injury.

Pressure Point: Dolphins must adjust quickly to reality without Tyreek Hill

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Granted, any win in the NFL is a hard day’s work.

The Miami Dolphins can feel accomplished that they are finally proud owners of one in 2025. It came with a steep price, though, losing their most impactful player in a 27-21 conquest of the winless New York Jets on Monday night.

The term for that is pyrrhic victory.

This one will be remembered only for the loss of five-time All Pro receiver Tyreek Hill to a devastating knee injury, certainly for the season, quite possibly forever.

Harsh reality sets in rapidly in a league whose initials could stand for Not For Long.

The 1-3 Dolphins can point to improvement over the past six quarters of play, including the second half at Buffalo. Whether that is a genuine turn for the better is inconclusive at best.

As for Monday, the difference was a recovered fumble at the goal line against a team whose performance was so inept its coach could be heard afterward by media members bellowing behind closed doors.

Rarely does an NFL team play as stupidly for 60 minutes as the Jets did Monday. They had 13 assessed penalties, three turnovers and committed a slew of mental errors.

Jets’ epic ineptitude aided Dolphins

Jets fans were calling for the head of Isaiah Williams, who fumbled away the second-half kickoff and called for a fair catch at his own 2 yard line in the final minute.

Jets running back Breece Hall summed up the evening well with “Teams shoot themselves in the foot, then we come back and shoot ourselves in the head.”

Quite frankly, the Dolphins also were beneficiaries of several questionable rulings by the officials.

What, then, was revealed about the Dolphins in holding off one of the league’s most dysfunctional teams?

Again, inconclusive.

One thing to say with conviction, I actually liked the Dolphins’ “Dark Water” rivalry uniforms. They looked badass, a quality this team has lacked.

The defense did answer coordinator Anthony Weaver’s demand for a more “violent” approach. They created turnovers for the first time this season. Cornerback Jack Jones punched the ball free just before Braelon Allen crossed the goal line on the Jets’ opening drive and Minkah Fitzpatrick recovered.

But prior to the fumble, Fitzpatrick accurately noted, “They were running the ball with ease.” The safety acknowledged, “When a team is running the ball like that, especially on the first drive of the game, it can be super deflating.”

Dolphins defense still getting run over

Although they got better after that, Miami’s defense still allowed 404 yards total offense, including 197 on the ground (7.1 yards per attempt).

There was a lot of violent head turning as Jets backs ran past.

The pass rush had trouble reaching and containing Justin Fields, who scampered away for a 43-yard touchdown.

The Miami defense needs more examples like linebacker Jordyn Brooks (18 tackles). Cornerback, a position of concern, has actually been passable with Jones and Rasul Douglas.

But whether the Dolphins can beat anyone better than the Jets with this defense is: inconclusive.

That their grip on this one remained uncomfortable until the end is concerning. But there are positives to cite.

In the immediate aftermath of Hill’s departure on a cart, joking and waving, the Dolphins responded with back to back touchdown drives. They uncovered an intriguing new offensive force in the Dolphins debut of massive tight end Darren Waller, a target so expansive that Tua Tagovailoa will be hard pressed to overthrow him.

“I mean I can’t remember the last time I’ve thrown the ball to dang near the goal post and somebody catches it like that,” Tua said of Waller’s jaw-dropping grab at the back of the end zone for the first of two touchdown catches. “So, that’s the kind of guy that we have in Darren Waller.”

Tight end Waller has immediate impact for Dolphins

So, Waller becomes exhibit No. 1 of how the Dolphins will cope with the loss of Hill, who has missed only one game in his four seasons with Miami. He is their leading receiver this season and even claimed that distinction for this game (six catches for 67 yards) despite his early departure.

Througouth his tenure, the Dolphins have gone best when Hill is going well.

Even with the void Hill’s injury leaves, there is reason to be encouraged by the potential of McDaniel’s offense. It looked more like the 2023 version than we’ve seen since then with the combination of pre-snap motion, deception and speed bringing positive results. It was evident they had 11 days to prepare.

For the first time this season Tagovailoa didn’t have a turnover or a sack. I liked getting him out of the pocket, where he’s been vulnerable if his first read isn’t open, and having him throw on the run.

Best of all was the balance with 31 rushes (123 yards) and 25 passes. The makeshift offensive line did a good job of opening lanes for De’von Achane, including Cole Strange getting his first start at right guard.

But is that a reflection of general improvement or status quo by facing the Jets, who have lost 10 in a row at Hard Rock Stadium? Again, inconclusive.

Jaylen Waddle must lead Dolphins receivers

What matters now is how they go forward without Hill. Is Jaylen Waddle ready to step into the featured receiver role? He has moments of brilliance, but now he must emerge as the go-to guy.
Malik Washington will have the chance to play a bigger part and there should be opportunity to finally  take the wraps off talented Tahj Washington.

There is speculation about using running backs Achane and Ollie Gordon II together, with Achane lining up as a receiver. But Achane is too valuable as the featured runner for that to me more than a variation.

How will this Dolphins team respond to the post-Tyreek reality? The weeks ahead will reveal a lot more than Monday’s win over the self-destructible Jets.

A good starting point would be to throw to Darren Waller as often as possible.

Craig Davis has covered South Florida sports and teams, including the Dolphins, for more than four decades. Follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @CraigDavisRuns.

The Edge of Collapse: Dolphins Seek First Win Against Rival Jets

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The Miami Dolphins are 0-3 and come home to face their division rival New York Jets (0-3). A rivalry long rooted in history, at one of its darkest points. Both teams come into the game at a crossroads, the Jets in a transition year, with a new coach and quarterback, while the Dolphins continuity is seeing its chapter come to a close. For this Dolphins chapter, a win is necessary, go to 0-4 while being 0-3 in the division — change is imminent — win and maybe they can right this ship.

So here are the keys to a Miami Dolphins victory.

  1.  Establish the run. The Miami Dolphins rushing attack has actually been among the NFL’s best and with a young, struggling offensive line, the run can help build that unit, and also alleviate some pressure on passing downs. Miami is averaging 5.2 yards per carry which is good for third in the NFL. The Jets are allowing 4.1 yards per attempt and 133 yards a game. Ollie Gordon and Devon Achane must have a big role in tonight’s matchup, allowing Miami to keep their struggling defense on the sideline.
  2. Contain Justin Fields. The Jets offense has been heavily reliant on the run, whether it’s been Tyrod Taylor, Justin Field, Breece Hall, or Braelon Allen. The Jets are only averaging 144.7 passing yards while running for 127 per game. Their best offensive performance came in week one against the Steelers when the Jets ran for 182 yards, with 48 of those coming from Fields (12 carries). The Dolphins defense must hold their gaps, and I would expect them to try more of Willie Gay this week to combat Field’s elusiveness.
  3. Win the turnover battle. I have said this every week, but not it has become a glaring issue and cause of loss. The Miami Dolphins have yet to force a turnover and currently hold a second worst -5 turnover differential. This formula just doesn’t in football games. The Jets are also not very good in this category, so as coach Weaver said “”At some point it comes down to changing the math through violence… I need you to do more than your job, I need you to whip that guy’s a– in front of you.” The Dolphins defense needs to come out fast and ferocious this week and get Hard Rock Stadium involved.

For the Dolphins this really is their season, 0-4 everything spirals, sell the assets and get ready for the next build. Win. And maybe there is a reason to believe.

Austin Dobbins – Sports Illustrated

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Off the Floor

Miami’s Crossroads: Mike McDaniel and the Fight to Save a Season

Miami’s Crossroads: Mike McDaniel and the Fight to Save a Season

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The Miami Dolphins are now 0-3 in “franchise” quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s 6th NFL season, and the fourth season under head coach Mike McDaniel. 0-3 is not the place any organization wants to be and currently puts the Miami Dolphins in the same boat as the Jets, Saints, Texans, Titans, and Giants. The only team similar to Miami here is the Houston Texans, who hope that they found their guy in C.J. Stroud.

For the Dolphins, this rebuild has failed. The draft capital, the opportunity, the triumphs, and the tragedies have all led to the same story, the “Same Old Dolphins,” the team that holds the second longest playoff win drought of the four major U.S. sports.

Now, for many, this season is a wash, an opportunity for the Dolphins to hit the reset button once again. But for those in the building, it is the last chance to prove their worth and change the narrative surrounding themselves and the Miami Dolphins. Which brings us to the New York Jets and Monday Night Football, where the Miami Dolphins go, depends on that game’s result.

Dolphins Remaining Schedule

Week 4 — vs. Jets (MNF), 7:15 PM
Week 5 — at Panthers, 1:00 PM
Week 6 — vs. Chargers, 1:00 PM
Week 7 — at Browns, 1:00 PM
Week 8 — at Falcons, 1:00 PM
Week 9 — vs. Ravens (TNF), 8:15 PM
Week 10 — vs. Bills, 1:00 PM
Week 11 — vs. Commanders (Madrid), 9:30 AM
Week 13 — vs. Saints, 1:00 PM
Week 14 — at Jets, 1:00 PM
Week 15 — at Steelers (MNF), 8:15 PM
Week 16 — vs. Bengals (SNF), 8:20 PM
Week 17 — vs. Buccaneers, 1:00 PM
Week 18 — at Patriots, 1:00 PM

With a Loss to the Jets

If the Dolphins lose to the Jets, they will be 0-4 before facing an inferior opponent in the Panthers. But at 0-4, would that even matter? Only one team has ever made the playoffs after going 0-4. The 1992 Chargers went 11-1 over their final 12 games. San Diego won in the Wild Card round, 17-0 over the Chiefs, but ended up losing in a 31-0 blowout against the Dolphins in the Divisional Round. If the Dolphins move to 0-4 with the Chargers, Ravens, Bills, Commanders, Steelers, Bengals, and Bucs on deck, chalk the season up and move on to the next. At that point, you explore selling high on assets. Tyreek Hill could bring back serious draft capital from a contender, and others could be on the table as well.

0-4 would bring serious conversations about firing McDaniel. Tua would still likely get the nod.

With a Win to the Jets

In all honesty, a win does nothing except get the Dolphins back on track. A win Monday is expected, but helps the team believe again, and with the Panthers on deck there would be real optimism in turning their season around. With the talent of this team and their backs against the wall, there is no reason that they should not be 4-4 by Week 9 against Baltimore and getting healthy on the offensive line. For the fans, opinions will not change, and they have no reason to until the Dolphins prove their worth against the NFL’s best. Beating bad teams means nothing.

For the Dolphins

At some point, Tua Tagovailoa has to find himself again. The flashes that once made him the unquestioned franchise quarterback have faded into inconsistency, and the Dolphins cannot afford to wait forever. This roster still has enough talent to compete, but Miami needs to lean into what is working. Their rushing attack is averaging 5.2 yards per carry, fourth-best in the league, and it has been the one reliable spark in an otherwise disappointing start.

The Dolphins can either keep trying to force the passing game to define them, or they can embrace balance, protect their quarterback, and play to their strengths. Monday night against the Jets is more than a test of will. It is a moment of truth for Tua, for Mike McDaniel, and for a franchise desperate to escape the shadow of the Same Old Dolphins.

Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa is 1-9 against the Bills after Thursday's defeat at Buffalo.

Pressure Point: Dolphins at bleak crossroads after 0-3 start

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If the NFL graded on a curve, you could make a case for giving them a pass on their performance in Thursday night’s 31-21 loss at Buffalo.

Almost.

But there is no curve in the NFL. The lines are straight and laid out in a grid. You either cross them or you don’t.

0-3 is 0-3, however you want to sugarcoat it. And nobody really does.

Even Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel: “We came here to win and I refuse to take moral victories as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins. It wasn’t good enough, so that’s where I’m at.”

The question is, how long does he stay where he’s at as coach of the Dolphins?

Three games into a season with everyone’s job on the line, facing a mandate of playoffs or else, this team is already in deep dung.

Since 1990, 162 NFL teams have started a season 0-3. Of those, only four have made the playoffs. Since 2000, only the 2018 Houston Texas have done so.

Dolphins haven’t quit on McDaniel

The positive to point out from another wrenching loss is that McDaniel hasn’t lost the locker room. Yet.

The beleaguered coach had the team ready off a short week and led a strong effort that had a major upset within reach at one of the toughest buildings in the league.

“His piss was hot,” receiver Tyreek Hill said of McDaniel. “The way he coached and the way he led men today was a beautiful thing.”

Ultimately, the Dolphins did what they always do at Buffalo: They made the fatal mistakes while the Bills made the needed plays.

With the score tied, Zach Sieler roughed the punter and virtually gifted the go-ahead touchdown to the Bills. Then, Tua Tagovailoa threw the inevitable coup-de-grace interception deep in Bills territory.

So a team having to rely on inexperience at too many positions was done in by cornerstone veterans on defense and offense.

There were also too many undisciplined penalties, including rookie guard Jonah Savaiinaea flagged for being downfield on a pass play to negate a first-down completion.

These are all signs of a bad team, because they are not isolated incidents.

Tagovailoa continues to regress

Most troubling is Tagovailoa’s regression. As the franchise quarterback, this team is going where he leads them, which right now is down the tubes.

Most telling are Tua’s numbers in the fourth quarter after three games: a completion rate of 65.5 percent (19 for 29) and a passer rating of 80.2, while throwing two touchdowns, two interceptions and taking four sacks.

Mystifying is why a receiving corps loaded with speed has so much trouble getting open, forcing Tagovailoa to check down and dump it off for short gains as protection breaks down.

Is it the pass routes? Does Tua not see receivers who are open? He certainly didn’t see Bills linebacker Terrel Bernard breaking across in front of Jaylen Waddle for the fateful interception.

“It’s a tough job to do when there’s someone in your face,” McDaniel said. “Everybody needs to do better. And if you’ve gotta ditch the ball to the flat in moments like that, then that’s what you have to learn from.”

Tagovailoa was under pressure when he made the throw. But here’s the thing, the Dolphins never force Josh Allen into that mistake.

The quarterback the Dolphins chose to invest $53,000,000 a year in is now 1-9 against Allen and the Bills.

Dolphins’ vertical passing game absent

He did throw touchdowns to Hill and Waddle, and the offense converted 10 of 15 third-down chances. But he averaged a paltry 4.3 yards per pass.

McDaniel’s once acclaimed high-octane passing game is plodding along like a dump truck.

Where do they go from here?

On the plus side, for the first time in three games they showed up with a sense of urgency and opened with an impressive touchdown drive.

As TV analyst Kirk Herbstreit put it, “This is a team that’s shown up in a bad mood.”

About time they showed some mettle.

They finally took the reins off rookie running back Ollie Gordon II — and what the hell took so long? — and he showed the impressive inside running evident in preseason, including bulling for the touchdown and a stunning 7-0 Miami lead.

But the defense still doesn’t have an interception or fumble recovery. They can’t stop the run. The pass rush, which was supposed to be a strength, has been inadequate.

Bottom line is they’ve allowed more than 30 points in each game so far.

The upcoming schedule offers opportunities with three of the next four games against teams that are 0-2. The Jets are up next, a Monday night date at home.

Dolphins season already seems broken

Another prime time date on the hot seat with the McDaniel/Chris Grier regime on the brink of joining a growing pile on the junk heap this century.

The evidence of failure is stark and damning. It is painfully apparent Tua was not worth the staggering investment and McDaniel’s way is not working.

What is not known is the limit of owner Steve Ross’ patience.

Hill laid out the crossroads this team faces: “Do you want to be the 0-3 team that just, hey, we’re going to throw in the towel … or are we going to be remembered as the team that started 0-3 and found a way to turn it around?”

There’s no way to skirt around it. Either cross the lines or get knocked back. Simple as that for the Dolphins on the rough road ahead.

Craig Davis has covered South Florida sports and teams, including the Dolphins, for more than four decades. Follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @CraigDavisRuns.

Can the Dolphins Upset the Bills on Thursday Night Football?

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The Miami Dolphins are off to their worst start since 2020, when they ended the season 10-6. But this season doesn’t appear to be heading in that direction; unless they can pull off a miracle upset against the Buffalo Bills, in Buffalo, a place they haven’t had much success. For many fans this game may signify the beginning of the end, but for the Dolphins’ personnel, this game is a chance to flip the script and turn the tides on an abysmal start to this 2025 season.

So how can they do it?

  1. Run the Ball: The Miami Dolphins are averaging the most yards per carry in the NFL this season on the fewest attempts. Buffalo has allowed the second most rushing yards per game at 169 yards and will be without defensive tackle Ed Oliver. For Miami establishing the run does so many things, especially this week, it keeps the ball out of Buffalo’s hands, enables the Dolphins to open up the passing game for their speedy receiving core, and can take some of the pressure of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Miami gets back some reinforcement in the half back room as Jaylen Wright is good to go, and I expect Miami to run a lot of two back sets today. Go back to the run game roots McDaniel and go win a football game.
  2. Win the Turnover Battle: This is a key to victory for every game but especially when you are 12.5-point dogs. The Dolphin’s defense has yet to force a turnover this season, and the Buffalo Bills have won the turnover battle in 24 straight games, the longest such streak in NFL history. For the offense ball security will be key, and for a defense that has mighty struggled, this is a way to gain some confidence and catch a groove not only for tonight but the rest of the season. Zach Sieler and Minkah Fitzpatrick have to show up against Buffalo, and The Dolphins must get off the field. Dolphins Defensive Statistics
  3. Eliminate the Pre snap Penalties: On the road, a place you haven’t won, it’s going to be loud as always. Miami has to be clean and get off a smooth operation. McDaniel said that the coaches came together for a fix, but they need to prove it, make it happen and eliminate the costly self-inflicted penalties.
  4. Change the Brand, Get Physical: The Dolphins are long known as soft, the Bills are not, the Dolphins are long known not to block well, run well, play well in primetime, beat good teams, everything. Miami has to come ready to play, with a chip on their shoulder and remind the league, and their very own fan base what they are capable of.

Can the Dolphins win? Of course, it’s the NFL, it’s a short week, and it’s an interdivision matchup. The Miami Dolphins have to come into this game and take their media answers seriously, play together, put the past behind and get started fast.

The Dolphins can’t erase a rough start overnight, but they can set the tone for the rest of 2025. Beat Buffalo in their house, and suddenly the conversation changes from a season slipping away to a season worth fighting for.

Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel said he's focused on preparing the team, not his job security.

Pressure Point: Heat is on 0-2 Dolphins, McDaniel with Bills up next

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That wasn’t merely a crushing defeat for the Miami Dolphins against a division rival they hadn’t lost to at home in six years.

It had the look of a regime killer.

The home opener against the New England Patriots was prefaced by a plane pulling a banner over Hard Rock Stadium calling for firing of Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel and GM Chris Grier.

That sentiment is certain to grow louder after a fourth quarter collapse resulted in a 33-27 loss that exposed glaring deficiencies on offense, defense and special teams. And most notably to coaching.

Especially with a prime-time date at Buffalo in four days where odds favor the Fins falling into a 0-3 hole to open the season.

Sunday’s game was a wild and fascinating afternoon of football. But there is much more than entertainment value at stake for a Dolphins franchise lost in the woods for a quarter century.

This is a team that is obviously regressing despite having a $200 million veteran quarterback and a coach in his fourth season.

Asked if he was concerned about his job, McDaniel said, “I think if I worry about my job security, I won’t be doing my job, and I think that inherently is against all things that I believe in.”

Dolphins dig early hole again

The apparent lack of preparation and level of incompetence evident in both season-opening defeats is inexcusable.

On their final two possessions, needing a touchdown to win, the Dolphins not only couldn’t handle the Patriots, they literally sabotaged themselves with mindless penalties – four of them for false starts or delay of game – and incompetence.

Tua Tagovailoa was sacked three times in those two possessions – five times total in the game – and threw an interception directly to a defender.

Tagovailoa, who was on the losing end against New England for the first time in his career, said he plans to talk to McDaniel and the offense about those failings, “because what we put out there, that was [unsatisfactory].

“Anyone who knows football and anyone who doesn’t know football, just knows that was not clean and that was not right what we were doing at the end of the game. We’ll get that fixed and communicate that to those guys and we’ll move forward from there.”

Part of the problem was the patchwork right side of the offensive line with starters at guard and tackle on injured reserve for at least a month.

Still, there is no masking Tagovailoa’s own shortcomings, notably his lack of mobility and inability to improvise and save a play when it goes awry.

Former Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard said last week that Tua went into panic mode when the Colts took away his first look. That was evident at times against the Patriots.

Notably, Tagovailoa expressed frustration with communication from the sideline at the end of the game. This speaks of a team out of sync.

“That was really frustrating. It was frustrating with the communication, with the guys inside the huddle and then what the personnel is, then the play for those guys,” Tagovailoa said. “Do we have too many guys in, why do we have another guy running in. Just the whole operation of that was not up to standard, was not up to par and I’ve got to do a better job with our guys in that sense.”

Dolphins’ woes on defense tough to overcome

Meanwhile, the ineffectiveness of Anthony Weaver’s defense has been astounding. After giving up points on every Colts possession in week 1, the defense was burned for two touchdowns and a field goal by the Patriots before getting its first stop five minutes into the third quarter following a sack by Jordyn Brooks.

After being embarrassed on the road at Indianapolis, the Dolphins, inexplicably, looked just as unprepared for their home opener. They fell behind by two touchdowns while being outgained 143-5 in net yards to open the game.

As for special teams, the Dolphins got a 74-yard punt return for a touchdown by Malik Washington to reclaim the lead in the fourth quarter. Only to give it back by allowing a 90-yard return on the ensuing kickoff.

“Ultimately, I look at absolutely everything falling on me,” McDaniel said. “That being said, I’m very frustrated with some coaches and players that did not [execute] with the game on the line. Our communication and substitution was up to par.”

Nonetheless, McDaniel’s Dolphins let a winnable game get away at home after rallying to lead twice in the second half.

Vrabel has Dolphins’ number

The win was the first for Mike Vrabel as coach of the Patriots. But he is 3-0 against Tua-led Dolphins including his tenure with the Tennessee Titans.

If the season continues to unravel for Miami, the turning point of the Tagovailoa and McDaniel era may be traced to the December 2023 defeat at Tennessee when Vrabel’s Titans rallied from a 14-point deficit in the final three minutes.

It was difficult to look at Vrabel on the Patriots’ sideline Sunday and not feel some envy from a Dolphins perspective.

Nonetheless, the Patriots are a rebuilding team with a long way to go to challenge Buffalo in the AFC East.

The Dolphins seem farther from being up to that task than at any time under McDaniel, and they’ve never been close.

Tagovailoa was asked if he was aware of the banner that flew over the stadium before Sunday’s game.

“I didn’t see any of that but I did hear the boos,” he said. “That’s part of the game. It’s all understandable and it comes with the game.”

The Dolphins have now lost to two middling teams with undistinguished quarterbacks to open the season. The Patriots’ Drake Maye, at least, is young, mobile and demonstrated potential Sunday. But he’s a long way from Josh Allen, the long-time nemesis the Dolphins must quickly prepare to face on Thursday night at Buffalo.

It’s been quite awhile since there has been so much at stake for the Dolphins this early in a season.

Craig Davis has covered South Florida sports and teams, including the Dolphins, for more than four decades. Follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @CraigDavisRuns.

Miami Dolphins Face Early Season Gut Check vs. New England

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The Miami Dolphins open up their 2025 home games this Sunday against the New England Patriots, one week after getting embarrassed by the Daniel Jones led Colts. This loss has caused an immense ripple effect from the national/local media and fans. Mike McDaniel is now a huge betting favorite to be the first coach fired, Tyreek Hill trade rumors are swirling, and their entire identity is once again being questioned.

Now for Dolphins fans this shouldn’t be anything new, 25 years of the same story, the same finish, and the disrespect regarding their favorite team. But the Dolphins must do something to change this and it starts Sunday, otherwise the most exciting build in recent Dolphins history, the Super Bowl window, Mike McDaniel, Tua, Grier, Tyreek, all of that, is over; and the reset button will once again be hit for a team that sports the second longest playoff win drought (advancing to the next round) in the four major U.S sports.

But what can the Dolphins do to try and get back on track this Sunday.

  1. It starts with showing up ready to play. The Dolphins got punched in the mouth last week, and if it weren’t for Devon Achane they would have been shut out. They played without energy, lacked the will to win, and were unprepared, which is quite unacceptable for the first game of the season, a game that McDaniel had yet to lose. So, this week, with another perfect record on the line (Tua is 7-0 vs New England) the Dolphins must start fast, get the fans behind them before Hard Rock Stadium lets out relentless chants that will be hard for the team to ignore.
  2. Play Together. This sound silly but it’s true. The Miami Dolphins must be a team, the team of 2023 played together, had fun, and most importantly had each other’s backs. After a loss like last week, it’s easy to get off track, try and pin the blame on another teammate and lose belief but the Dolphins have to play complementary team football. From communication to accountability, it all needs to be on display this Sunday vs their rival (Let Jordyn Brooks Explain).
  3. Tua must play well. Quarterback one has been acting quite defensive with the media recently (My Observation). Tua is under heavy scrutiny from both the fan base and the national media, even though he insists he is not on social media. Many critics question whether he is truly a franchise quarterback, and after what might have been the worst performance of his career, he needs to respond. The talent is there, the intangibles are there, but the only way to silence the noise is to bounce back and prove it on the field.
  4. Get Tyreek Involved.This has to happen for several reasons. First, Tyreek Hill is Miami’s best offensive weapon, and since 2023 the team is 11-0 when he records 100 or more yards. Second, keeping him engaged is crucial. He has started the season focused and seemingly free of distractions, but if the Dolphins keep losing and fail to feature him, frustration could build and eventually lead to trade demands. The irony is that proving he is still one of the league’s most dangerous weapons also boosts his trade value. Getting Hill involved keeps the offense explosive while also giving Miami leverage for the future.
  5. Win. Miami has to win, if they lose, they are staring 0-3 right in the face as they have a Thursday Night Football matchup with the Bills next Thursday. To make matters worse the noise will be even louder from fans and media alike. Winning builds culture as much as coaches and captains, keep losing and the “players only meeting” will be all for not.

The Dolphins have no margin for error. They need to show up Sunday, play with urgency, and remind fans why this was supposed to be their time. If they fail, McDaniel and the entire leadership core could find themselves on the hottest of hot seats and Miami will once again be forced to hit reset on a franchise stuck in a 25-year cycle of disappointment.

Austin Dobbins – Sports Illustrated

Five Takeaways from the Miami Dolphins Embarrassing Week One Loss

Dolphins receiver Tyreek Hill showed his frustration during the season-opening loss to the Colts.

Pressure Point: Tagovailoa’s woes among many concerns in Dolphins’ disastrous opener

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What. A. Dolphins. Disaster.

What went wrong for the Miami Dolphins in the season opener at Indianapolis?

Let us count the ways. Actually, easier to simply say, everything. Absolutely everything in a horrific 33-8 undressing by the Colts.

Dolphins wide receiver Tyreek Hill summed it up perfectly: “This was a big kick in the balls for us.”

It is one thing to go on the road and lose on opening day. That’s not surprising in the NFL.

But when every single offseason concern is not only confirmed but magnified, red flags about what lies ahead for this team in this season meld together like a crimson tsunami.

Secondary — oof! Offensive line — ouch! Run defense — gulp!

To make the situation more painful, guard James Daniels, the veteran addition to the o-line, lasted only three plays before leaving with a pectoral injury. Storm Duck, who was Miami’s top cornerback through attrition, left on a cart with a leg injury in the second quarter.

Even the Miami pass rush, which was supposed to be a strength, didn’t materialize.

One of Tua Tagovailoa’s worst performances

As for the quarterback play, it was simply one of the worst performances of Tua Tagovailoa’s career, punctuated by two interceptions and a fumble that the Colts turned into 17 points.

It began with the Dolphins’ first three possessions of the season ending in: interception, fumble (by Tua), punt, that led to a 20-0 deficit at the half.

Oh, by the way, Xavien Howard, who used to the Dolphins’ best cornerback, recovered Tua’s fumble to announce his presence in his first game for the Colts.

The Colts, at the intermission, had 255 yards of offense to 43 for Miami. They had a 17-3 advantage in first downs.

Those numbers illustrate that the Dolphins were not competitive on the one day when everyone starts on equal footing.

It didn’t get better for Miami. Tagovailoa threw his second interception of the game on the first possession of the second half and it was promptly 23-0.

Keep in mind, the Colts had not won as opening game since 2013. Their 0-10-1 mark since then was the second-longest drought in openers in NFL history. They haven’t been to the playoffs in four seasons.

Dolphins fans have reason to fear the worst

Understandably, by halftime Dolphins fans were tossing deck chairs off the Titanic. The popular chorus of “Fire everyone!!!” was in full scream mode.

Can’t blame them. They weren’t reacting to one bad half of football, but rather to decades of futility.

Granted, dramatic swings in performance from week to week are common in the league. If you want to give the Dolphins the benefit of the doubt, the next three weeks, against the Patriots, Bills and Jets, will show how they match up in the AFC East. The first two will come in a span of 11 days.

Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel pointed to a litany of mistakes as the reason for the embarrassing performance at Indy.

“It’s a young team having to learn some very hard lessons,” he said. “It’s all about the ebbs and flows. You can’t overcook a success and you can’t overcook a failure. You have to learn from things.”

He is peddling the notion of a quick fix.

The view from here is that an already suspect roster looked more problematic than expected.

Dolphins pushed around by Colts

What happened to the emphasis on being more physical and winning the battles in the trenches? The Colts mauled the Dolphins and tossed them aside with ease.

A number of Dolphins spent time in the blue injury tent on the sideline, though some did return.

It was a stunning physical mismatch that left few positives to point to from a Dolphins point of view.

What concerned me most was Tagovailoa. Now in his sixth season, we’ve been hearing about a new Tua, in command, more assertive, ready to lead the way to success.

To be sure, this was a different Tua, but not in a good way. I can’t recall him playing so poorly in a game that wasn’t against the Bills or in freezing weather.

This was played in balmy conditions and matched with Daniel Jones, who seemed to channel Peyton Manning in assertiveness and precise execution in his Colts debut.

Tyreek Hill exhibits frustration

Meanwhile, the Dolphins’ passing game was tentative and out of sync all afternoon.

A couple days before the opener, Tua had a message for Dolfans on social media. His post: “Time to show them who I am.”

If this is who he is at this point in his career, the franchise is in worse shape than many fans and media members feared.

While young players are being leaned on at some positions, Tua still has two of the premier receivers in Hill and Jaylen Waddle to work with. The cohesion that would be expected after several years of playing together wasn’t evident.

Tagovailoa appeared uncomfortable in the pocket and his throws were erratic. On the first interception, he sailed the throw five yards past Hill, who was open over the middle.

Hill’s frustration was evident on the sideline during the game and suggested all is still not well between him and Tagovailoa.

Dolphins general manager Chris Grier, already No. 1 on Dolphins fans’ hit list, recently said that in letting go of some veteran players, the roster was undergoing a “reset” but not a rebuild.

There is more talent on the roster than the 2019 “Tank For Tua” team that started 0-7 and began the rebuilding effort that was supposed to lead the way to sustainable success. That mission has yielded no playoff wins and led the beleaguered franchise back to what looks like another deep rut.

Granted it was only one game, but it already feels like a season in crisis.

Craig Davis has covered South Florida sports and teams, including the Dolphins, for more than four decades. Follow him on the site formerly known as Twitter @CraigDavisRuns.

Five Takeaways from the Miami Dolphins Embarrassing Week One Loss

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The Miami Dolphins opened the 2025 NFL season with a dud, getting dismantled by the Indianapolis Colts in a performance that left little to feel good about. Almost every unit looked unprepared, and the team failed to execute on the basic keys to victory. Here are five major takeaways:

1. Tua Looked Off from the Start

Tua Tagovailoa never settled into a rhythm. While he was under constant duress, both interceptions came on plays where he had time to throw. Decision-making and ball placement were shaky, leaving fans wondering if this was rust, nerves, or something deeper.

2. The “Revamped” Front Seven Was a No-Show

The Dolphins invested heavily into improving the defensive front, but week one was a reality check. One sack all game, 156 rushing yards allowed, and very little disruption in the backfield. The run fits were sloppy, and the Colts dictated the line of scrimmage from the opening whistle.

3. Secondary Struggles

For a team built around elite corners, this was not the kind of tape they’ll want to watch back. Miscommunication and blown coverages left receivers running open too often, and the Colts took advantage.

  • Storm Duck left the game with an ankle injury and was getting torched early on.

4. Offensive Line Still a Liability

Miami’s offensive line was overmatched again. Three sacks, six quarterback hits, and four tackles for loss highlight just how little push or protection the unit provided. Without improvement here, the offense will never find consistency.

  • James Daniels also only made it three plays before leaving with a pectoral injury.

5. The Keys to Victory Were Ignored

Heading into the matchup, three simple goals were laid out:

  • Start fast and set the tone. (Instead, the Dolphins looked flat early and never recovered.)

  • Contain Jonathan Taylor and make Daniel Jones beat you. (Instead, Taylor gashed them on the ground and Jones played comfortably within the game plan.)

  • Win the turnover battle. (Tua threw two costly interceptions and lost a fumble).

  • The Dolphins didn’t just miss on these keys they flipped them in Indy’s favor

I have long coined this season as the last chance for this regime, in regard to Tua, McDaniel, Grier and others. After losing in week one, the National media, local media, and even the most optimistic of fans all have added ammunition to their low standard takes regarding the Miami Dolphins this season. Next week the Dolphins have their home opener against the 0-1 New England Patriots, if Miami doesn’t figure things out quickly not only will it be a long season, but the last run with this core.

 

Dolphins Embarrassed by Colts in Week One Loss

Can Week One Be Considered a “Must Win” for the Miami Dolphins?

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The Miami Dolphins are looking to return to the NFL playoffs and maybe even end their quarter-century playoff win drought. That is easier said than done, but this year the path is right in front of them if they can stay healthy. Health is a key variable for every NFL team, but it is especially true for Tua Tagovailoa and the Dolphins.

On the surface, a 0–1 start is not a death sentence. Many playoff teams stumble out of the gate and find their rhythm later in the season. But with the Dolphins, context matters, and right now the national perception is not on their side.

National Media Predictions

The outlook from major outlets is not encouraging:

  • CBS Sports: 7–10

  • ESPN: 8–9

  • PFF: 9–8

  • Bleacher Report: 7–10

  • USA Today: 5–12

  • Sports Illustrated: 6–11

  • PFSN: 8–9

Most oddsmakers have set the Dolphins’ win total around 7.5 games, signaling doubt about Miami’s ability to navigate the season. The consensus narrative is that health concerns, Tua’s durability, and secondary depth issues make this team fragile.

But the Dolphins are more talented than these projections give them credit for. That is exactly why Week One looms so large.

Why Week One Matters More Than It Should

1. Culture

Winning breeds culture, not the other way around. Every coach in the NFL preaches “culture,” but it only sticks when victories back it up. A Week One loss to the Colts, an opponent many would argue Miami should beat, would hand national critics ammunition and test the Dolphins’ locker room resolve before momentum even has a chance to build. A win, on the other hand, starts the year with confidence and belief, both inside the locker room and in the fan base.

2. Strength of Schedule

Miami does not have the luxury of stumbling. The Dolphins face one of the more diverse schedules in the league, with five games against teams who they have a clear quarterback advantage against (IND, CAR, NO, CLE, ATL).

A slip-up against Indianapolis, however, would mean Miami has to play catch-up all season long. The math is not favorable. To reach 10 wins, which is likely the AFC cutoff, Miami would need to sweep both the Jets and Patriots or grind out victories against teams like Washington, Cincinnati, Tampa Bay, Buffalo, the Chargers, Baltimore, and Pittsburgh. Dropping Week One only increases the pressure to pull off upsets later in the year.

The Stakes

The Dolphins are built to contend, but the narrative around them says otherwise. Media outlets see them as middle-of-the-pack, fragile, and inconsistent. Week One against the Colts is not just about starting 1–0, it is about flipping that script.

A win establishes momentum, validates Mike McDaniel’s program, and gives Tua the confidence he needs to silence critics early. A loss reinforces every doubt that has been cast on this team since the offseason and makes the road to January feel like a mountain climb.

So, is Week One a must-win? Technically, no. Realistically, yes. For the Miami Dolphins, the season does not just begin in Week One, it might be defined by it.