MIAMI, FL — In a heart-pounding finale, the Miami Dolphins saw the victory slip away against the Arizona Cardinals, with a decisive field goal by Chad Ryland as time expired giving the visitors a 28-27 victory. Despite a promising start and control for a good part of the game, Miami succumbed to the pressure of Kyler Murray and an Arizona attack that never stopped believing.
A Promising Start for Miami
The first half saw the Dolphins get off to an explosive start. Tua Tagovailoa, always precise, orchestrated an initial drive that led the Dolphins to score a touchdown thanks to Raheem Mostert. With a fast and dynamic offense, Miami took full advantage of Tyreek Hill’s speed and De’Von Achane’s versatility, leading 13-7 before halftime.
Arizona’s Comeback
Despite the initial deficit, the Cardinals responded with determination. Led by a Kyler Murray in great form, Arizona found the right countermeasures to stem Miami’s attack and capitalize on offensive possessions. With precise passes and perfect clock management, Murray kept his team in the game, throwing two touchdowns and constantly putting the Dolphins defense in difficulty.
The Second Half and the Miami Crisis
The third quarter saw a change of pace. Despite another Dolphins touchdown, this time on a run by Achane, Arizona responded blow for blow. The Cardinals’ defense forced Miami to make a crucial mistake that led to a safety, further narrowing the margin.
With the score still in the balance in the fourth quarter, Murray demonstrated his ability to lead decisive drives, orchestrating a methodical attack that brought the Cardinals close to the opponent’s red zone.
The Final Drive and the Defeat of the Dolphins
With less than two minutes on the clock, the Dolphins tried to hold off Murray, but Miami’s defense couldn’t contain James Conner, who gained crucial yards and got Arizona into field goal position. With three seconds left, Ryland converted a 34-yard attempt, completing the comeback and leading the Cardinals to the victory.
The Star of the Match
Arizona Cardinals
- Kyler Murray: With 307 yards thrown and two touchdowns, Murray showed that he is fully fit and capable of making a difference in key moments.
- James Conner: With a solid performance in both rushing and receiving, Conner contributed key plays on the final drive, racking up over 50 rushing yards.
- Marvin Harrison Jr.: The rookie recorded 111 yards and a touchdown, proving to be a key presence for Arizona’s offense.
Miami Dolphins
- Tua Tagovailoa: Despite a hot start, Tua finished with 234 yards and just one touchdown. His accuracy wasn’t enough to hold off the Cardinals’ final assault.
- De’Von Achane: He shone with 97 rushing yards and a receiving touchdown, but couldn’t maintain the same impact late on.
- Tyreek Hill: With 72 yards on six receptions, Hill was a consistent deep threat, but the Cardinals defense was able to limit him in crucial moments.
For the Dolphins, this defeat is a serious blow to their playoff ambitions. Despite a powerful attack, Mike McDaniel’s team must improve in managing the end of games and in the ability to close out matches in which they have the advantage.
The Cardinals, on the other hand, can enjoy a hard-fought but deserved victory. With Kyler Murray in top form and a defense that has shown character, Arizona proves to be a team to keep an eye on in the race for the postseason.
