Miami

Dolphins Come From Behind in Season Opening Win

The Dolphins trailed 10-0 before scoring 17 unanswered points in Washington on Sunday

The Miami Dolphins erased a ten-point deficit to beat Washington 17-10 on Sunday in their first game of the regular season.

Jarvis Landry returned a punt early into the fourth quarter to put Miami up by seven. Landry went untouched on the entire run back which totaled 69 yards. Landry who is known as a play maker lived up to the reputation with the exciting run.

That returned punt came after a team effort of fighting back. Washington led by ten during the first half, and by three at half time. The Dolphins would drive down the field in the third quarter, but could not get it into the end zone despite having a first and goal. Eventually, the Dolphins settled for the game-tying field goal.

Brice McCain helped Miami keep that lead with an interception near Miami's end zone. Washington appeared to be on its way to scoring before McCain jumped in and stole the ball away. It was the second pick of the day for Miami's defense, as Brent Grimes had one in the first half as well.

Things looked bleak for the Dolphins during the first half of play. Washington dominated time of possession, and it began to take a toll on Miami's defense. Several times, the Dolphins could be seen with their hands on their hips, as Washington seemingly moved down the field with ease. Miami's offense had difficulty finding a rhythm, and failed to convert on an early fourth and one try as well.

Ryan Tannehill ended up with a decent day as he completed 22 of 34 attempts for 226 yards. Miami's quarterback threw one touchdown pass with no interceptions. There was one throw by Tannehill that was nearly picked off, but ended up a completion instead. The ball went through the hands of a Washington defender.

Rishard Matthews caught the lone TD pass from Tannehill, and 34 yards receiving overall. Landry led Miami's receivers with 53 yards on his eight catches.

There was a scary incident in the first half when Dion Sims suffered a concussion. The tight end lunged for a pass, but came up short. Upon hitting the ground, Sims made impact with his head. The impact was so intense that Sims appeared to have been briefly knocked out before being carted off.

With Sims out of commission, things became more difficult for the Dolphins and their offensive unit. Several of Miami's plays involve having two tight ends on the field, and those became more difficult to run successfully. Jordan Cameron picked up the load following the departure of Sims. It remains to be seen how long Sims may be out.

The Dolphins will continue the season next Sunday with a game in Jacksonville against the Jaguars at 4:05 p.m.

Contact Us