The Miami Dolphins snapped their three-game losing streak on Monday night with a 23-15 victory over the Los Angeles Rams. Despite a season filled with injuries, inconsistent play, and narrow defeats, the Dolphins showed resilience and determination, offering a glimmer of hope that their playoff aspirations are still alive.
Tyreek Hill caught a touchdown pass from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa in the third quarter, marking his first touchdown reception since Week 1. The Dolphins’ defense also stepped up, keeping the Rams out of the end zone and delivering Miami’s second win in eight games. The victory was a crucial step in recovering from a season marked by heartbreaking losses, including three games lost by a combined 10 points.
Rookie Malik Washington made an immediate impact, rushing for an 18-yard touchdown on the Dolphins’ opening drive. Tagovailoa, who threw for 207 yards, contributed several key completions on third downs, with 137 of those yards coming in third-down situations alone. Despite his modest yardage, Tagovailoa’s clutch throws were instrumental in the Dolphins’ win.
Hill, who played through a wrist injury, had three receptions, including the game-changing touchdown. Miami kicker Jason Sanders also played a vital role, nailing three field goals in the victory. The Dolphins’ win, while important, was seen by defensive tackle Calais Campbell as just the beginning. He emphasized that the team must keep the momentum going, with the next game being just as crucial for continuing their push forward.
The Rams, on the other hand, struggled offensively. Quarterback Matthew Stafford threw for 293 yards, but the team failed to score a touchdown, marking only the eighth time in coach Sean McVay’s tenure that the Rams were kept out of the end zone. Rookie Joshua Karty added five field goals, but the Rams’ offense could not capitalize on their opportunities, including a late drive that ended in another field goal, leaving the game within one score.
Los Angeles had a chance to tie the game in the fourth quarter, driving to the Dolphins’ 4-yard line. However, McVay opted for another field goal, cutting Miami’s lead to 23-15 with just over six minutes remaining. The Dolphins answered with a clutch catch from Odell Beckham Jr., setting up Sanders for a 50-yard field goal that extended their lead.
The game also featured a rare moment of concern for the Dolphins when Tagovailoa, after throwing his first interception since September, attempted to tackle linebacker Christian Rozeboom. Although the play raised some eyebrows, the Dolphins quickly regained possession after the Rams fumbled on the following play. Despite a sack and fumble recovery by Rams rookie Jared Verse, Miami managed to close out the win.
The Dolphins’ victory also had implications beyond the game itself. It prevented Florida from experiencing a historic 0-12 weekend across its NFL and college teams, a scenario that would have been the first of its kind since the state became home to three NFL teams in 1995.
In terms of injuries, Miami cornerback Kendall Fuller entered concussion protocol for the second time this season. The Rams were also dealing with injuries, as right tackle Rob Havenstein was sidelined, leading to Joe Noteboom starting in his place for the first time since the season opener.
While this win doesn’t guarantee the Dolphins’ playoff future, it has reignited hope in Miami, showing that with strong defense, key plays on offense, and a bit of luck, the Dolphins can still make a push in the second half of the season.
