Quick Takeaways From the Dolphins Preseason Win over the Lions

The Miami Dolphins found a way to take down the Detroit Lions in week 2 of the preseason, winning 24-17. Ethan Robinson made an awesome interception to end the Lions game tying drive. Even without the starters the Dolphins saw great improvement in week 2 and now have some interesting questions to answer heading into their matchup at home against the Jaguars.

Key Takeaways

Backup QB Battle Heats Up

Quinn Ewers looked like a different player from Week 1. The rookie went 11 of 17 for 116 yards and two touchdowns, showing poise and command of the offense. Both scores went to Theo Wease Jr., who continues to be his go-to target. Ewers led three scoring drives in the second half, firmly putting himself in the conversation for QB2.

Zach Wilson also improved, finishing 15 of 23 with a touchdown while taking one sack. While Wilson still holds the edge in experience, Ewers has clearly opened the door for more opportunities moving forward.

Ollie Gordon Solidifies RB2 Push

Ollie Gordon was again one of the brightest spots on offense. He carried the ball 10 times for 50 yards and added two receptions for nine yards. Gordon ran decisively, showed burst through the line, and once again looked like a clear complement to Devon Achane. With Jaylen Wright struggling for a second straight week, Gordon looks ready to seize the RB2 role.

Braeden Daniels Continues to Impress

Transitioning to guard hasn’t slowed down Braeden Daniels. For the second week in a row, he played with strength and consistency, flashing versatility on both sides of the line. At a time when Miami’s offensive line depth is still shaky, Daniels’ emergence inside has been a much-needed positive.

Secondary Struggles Persist

If there’s one glaring issue, it’s the secondary. Lions quarterback Kyle Allen completed 14 of 17 passes for 124 yards in the first half, slicing through Miami’s defensive backs with ease. Even with backups in, the lack of depth at cornerback is alarming. Robinson’s late interception was a great moment, but Miami still looks thin and vulnerable in coverage.

Stock Up Players

• Quinn Ewers, QB – Showed real growth and rhythm.

• Theo Wease Jr., WR – Two TDs, strong chemistry with Ewers.

• Ollie Gordon, RB – Balanced, efficient, and reliable.

• Braeden Daniels, OL – Smooth transition to guard.

• Ethan Robinson, CB – Clutch INT to seal the win.

• Dee Eskridge, WR – 3 receptions for 53 yards and a touchdown.

• Tahj Washington, WR – 4 receptions for 33 yards.

• Jordan Phillips, DL – 1.5 sacks and a tackle for loss.

• Tanner Conner, TE – 6 receptions for 48 yards.

• Grayson Murphy, EDGE – 3 tackles, 1 TFL, 1 sack, and 4 QB hits.

• Eugene Asante, LB – 6 tackles and 1 TFL.

Other Notes

• Bailey won the punting battle today.
• 6 tackles for losses and three sacks!
• Front seven still deep.
• Tarik Black, Erik Ezukanma, and Andrew Armstrong are on the bubble at receiver.
• Kion Smith was much improved from last week.
• Ethan Bonner left the game with a hamstring injury.
• This draft class looks very, very good.

Final Thoughts

Week 2 was a step forward for Miami’s depth pieces. The backup QB battle is heating up, Gordon looks like a true contributor, and Daniels is becoming a versatile weapon on the line. But the secondary remains a major concern, and offensive tackle depth continues to look shaky.

With one game left before roster cuts, the Dolphins still have a lot of questions that need answers and will look for clarity throughout next week.