Both the Miami Dolphins and Chicago Bears faced off in their preseason opener, and it would be a swing of momentum for both teams.
After a good first half by the Dolphins, going up 13-0, the Bears would score 20 straight points to win 20-13.
Chicago debuted the 2021 No. 11 overall draft pick, Justin Fields, and he did not disappoint. After a shaky start, including a fumble, he got hot. Fields went 14-of-20 for 142 yards and a touchdown in the passing game. On the ground, Fields had five attempts for 37 yards and a touchdown.
The Bears momentum would turn just before the first half was over; Cairo Santos nailed a 53-yard field goal with two seconds remaining.
Miami Dolphins
The Miami Dolphins played well, considering they were without a bunch of starters (DeVante Parker, Will Fuller, Xavien Howard, Byron Jones, etc). Tua Tagovailoa had a decent game through one quarter, going 8-for-11 with 99 yards and an interception. Tua’s impressive moment came when he connected with Mike Gesicki for a 50-yard completion to set up a 21-yard field goal. On his overall day, Tua said: “I thought I played alright.”
In addition to Tua, QB’s Jacoby Brissett and Reid Sinnett played decently. Brissett went 6-for-10 with 67 yards and a touchdown. Meanwhile, Sinnett went 6-for-10 with 51 yards.
Salvon Ahmed
Salvon Ahmed emerged as an option for a competitive Dolphins running back room. Ahmed had six carries for 40 yards. And in the passing game, Ahmed had two receptions for 31 yards and a touchdown.
Jaylen Waddle and Jakeem Grant
Saturday’s game saw the debut of the 2021 No. 6 overall draft pick, Jaylen Waddle. Although he did not record any stats on offense, Waddle had a terrific 24-yard punt return. Jakeem Grant also had a 34-yard punt return in the game.
Next Up
Miami will host a joint practice with the Atlanta Falcons for two days ahead of their August 21st preseason game.