For the first time since Ryan Tannehill’s second year in the league (Dec. 22, 2013), the Miami Dolphins failed to score against the Buffalo Bills. The final score was 35-0.
Recap
Miami
Things didn’t start out too well for Miami on Sunday.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was sacked twice on Miami’s first series. Then, on the next drive, the first-year starter went down hard after a big hit from Bills defensive end A.J. Epensea. Tagovailoa was attempting a short pass on 4th-and-2 near midfield. Tagovailoa appeared to grab his ribs before slowly getting to his feet and walking to the sideline. He was then carted off the field and into the locker room. The 23-year-old was 1-of-4 passing for 13 yards before leaving the game.
Jacoby Brissett entered the game in Tua’s stead. Brissett played well, but received no help from his offensive line. The former Dwyer High School standout finished 24-of-40 passing with 169 yards and an interception.
Brissett also received little help from his receivers. Both DeVante Parker and Albert Wilson dropped potential touchdown passes. In addition, Jakeem Grant fumbled right by the goal line.
After the game, Brissett said that he doesn’t consider himself a backup QB. “I’m a starter, he said”.
Of note, Jaylen Waddle had six receptions for 48 yards. However, the rookie fumbled after receiving a punt return.
On a positive note, Xavien Howard had his first interception of the season. However, Howard said that the mood in the locker room after the loss was “like a funeral.”
Buffalo
The Bills shutout an opponent for the first time since 2016 (vs. the New England Patriots). The quarterback of that game, you ask? Jacoby Brissett.
Josh Allen played well for Buffalo. The 25-year-old completed 17-of-33 passes for 179 yards and two touchdowns. Star Wide Receiver Stefon Diggs also played well, recording a team-high 60 yards on four receptions (and a touchdown).
Defensively, Buffalo showed their true colors. The reigning AFC East champs had six total sacks and forced three turnovers (two fumbles and one interception). In addition, Buffalo held Miami to only 3.1 yards per play.
Next Up
Miami will head to Las Vegas to take on the Raiders. The last time both teams faced off (Dec. 26), NFL fans saw a thrilling and exciting game that resulted in a Dolphins win.