The Miami Dolphins suffered a disappointing 21-14 house loss to the Buffalo Payments of their regular-season finale on the weekend, leading to a big setback.
The Dolphins had a possibility to safe the AFC’s No. 1 seed, their first division title since 2008, and a uncommon house play-off recreation however fell brief. Consequently, they’re now a wild-card staff, heading to Kansas Metropolis for a match-up with the defending Tremendous Bowl champions, the Chiefs.
Regardless of main 14-7 coming into the third quarter, the Dolphins couldn’t preserve their benefit. Their offense struggled within the second half, managing simply 57 yards and three first downs. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa was intercepted by security Taylor Rapp within the closing moments of the sport, sealing the Dolphins’ destiny. The Payments secured the No. 2 seed with their fifth-consecutive win and fourth-straight division title.
A pivotal second within the recreation got here with a 96-yard kick-off return landing by Deonte Hardy, tying the rating at 14. Following a three-and-out for the Dolphins’ offense, Josh Allen led the Payments on a vital landing drive. Regardless of the Dolphins’ protection forcing turnovers and stops within the pink zone, the offense couldn’t capitalize successfully.
Miami’s offense struggled
Within the second half, Miami’s offense struggled, gaining solely 7 yards on three carries. Buffalo managed the sport with 42 performs within the second half, whereas Allen’s clutch efficiency made the distinction. Miami’s protection confronted challenges because of accidents, with key gamers sidelined. The Dolphins had alternatives however couldn’t convert Buffalo’s turnovers into adequate factors.
The loss marked Miami’s first two-game shedding streak of the season, elevating questions on their late-season efficiency towards top-tier opponents. The Dolphins are actually 1-5 towards play-off groups and face a troublesome street match-up towards the Chiefs, a staff they misplaced to in Week 9.
Regardless of the challenges, head coach Mike McDaniel is concentrated on addressing the problems and getting ready for the upcoming recreation towards Kansas Metropolis. The Dolphins goal to bounce again within the postseason after a late-season skid.
