The Miami Dolphins defeated the Baltimore Ravens 42-38 on Sunday for their second victory under head coach Mike McDaniel.
Miami got off to a slow start as Ravens returner Devin Duvernary returned the opening kickoff for a 103-yard touchdown. However, that was really the only special teams’ blunder on the day.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa had some strong moments, including hitting wide receiver Jaylen Waddle for a 59-yard catch-and-run on a drive that ultimately ended in a touchdown for the second-year wideout. However, he also threw two interceptions trying to force balls to Waddle and Tyreek Hill.
The running backs struggled as well, rushing for just 1.4 yards per carry in the first half. This is something they’ve struggled with throughout the preseason and into the first week.
From the other side of the ball, Miami’s defense had a strong goal-line stand after letting Baltimore possess the ball for most of the first quarter. However, from there, they allowed the Ravens to score two more touchdowns, including a 75-yard touchdown by Rashod Bateman with Xavien Howard in coverage.
Baltimore entered the half up 28-7.
The second half was a completely different story for the Dolphins’ offense, as they turned it on. Without the help of turnovers, the offense scored 35 points in the second half and 28 in the fourth quarter.
Tagovailoa hit Mike Gesicki, River Cracraft, Tyreek Hill and Waddle for touchdowns in the second half, as they took the lead late.
Miami’s defense had really only one poor drive after halftime, allowing Jackson to score on a 79-yard run. They held strong to force Baltimore’s second turnover-on-downs in the game and stopped Jackson from completing a hail mary attempt as time expired.
This victory has to go down next to the “Miami Miracle” as one of the most impressive wins in recent Dolphins history.
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