Five Takeaways from the Miami Dolphins Embarrassing Week One Loss

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