Dolphins Defeat Jaguars 20-17 in Season Opener

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla., Sept. 8 (UPI) — The Miami Dolphins showcased their remarkable speed and adaptability in a thrilling game against the Jacksonville Jaguars, rallying to secure a 20-17 victory with a quick, decisive comeback.

The pivotal moment came late in the third quarter. With the Dolphins trailing 17-7, safety Javon Holland forced a crucial fumble in the red zone, preventing the Jaguars from extending their lead to 24-7. On the ensuing play, quarterback Tua Tagovailoa connected with Tyreek Hill for an electrifying 80-yard touchdown pass.

Despite an earlier misstep, kicker Jason Sanders redeemed himself with two field goals, including a game-winning 52-yarder as time expired, marking a dynamic start to the season for the Dolphins.

“I feel like that had to be the play of the game,” said Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel, praising Holland’s critical forced fumble. “It was a gigantic flip in points and momentum. It was really cool to see a guy who, when the opportunity came, made his play when the team desperately needed it.”

Tyreek Hill had a standout performance, racking up 130 yards from seven receptions. Tagovailoa completed 23 of 37 passes for a total of 338 yards, while the Dolphins outgained the Jaguars with 400 total yards compared to Jacksonville’s 267. Though they faced a 17-7 deficit at halftime, the Dolphins defense tightened significantly in the second half.

Travis Etienne was the first to score during the game, finding the end zone with a 1-yard run for the Jaguars with just 4:34 remaining in the first quarter.

The Jaguars’ defense effectively contained the Dolphins’ rushing game, limiting Miami to only 29 rushing yards in the first half, which included just one yard in the first quarter. Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence added to the lead with a 14-yard touchdown pass to rookies Brian Thomas Jr. in the second quarter.

Miami responded with a 12-play drive that culminated in a 1-yard touchdown run by running back De’Von Achane, but the Jaguars regained a ten-point advantage just before halftime with a 53-yard field goal from kicker Cam Little.

The Dolphins struggled initially in the second half, as the Jaguars stopped their opening drive. However, Holland’s game-changing play on Etienne turned the tide. Tagovailoa quickly capitalized on the momentum shift, hitting Hill along the left sideline, who showcased his speed with a long-distance score to cut into the Jaguars’ lead.

Following the touchdown, the Jaguars turned the ball over on downs. Miami was unable to capitalize immediately, as Sanders missed a field goal attempt that could have tied the game. Nonetheless, Sanders found redemption later, kicking a 37-yard field goal with just over four minutes left on the clock.

On the Jaguars’ subsequent drive, the Dolphins’ pass rushers, Emmanuel Ogbah and Jaelan Phillips, combined for crucial sacks that forced a punt, allowing Miami to regain possession. The Dolphins efficiently moved down the field, setting the stage for Sanders’ game-winner.

Lawrence recorded 12 completions on 21 attempts, managing 162 yards and one touchdown in the loss. Dolphins wide receiver Jaylen Waddle also displayed his skills, collecting 109 yards on five receptions.

The Dolphins are set to host the Buffalo Bills in their next game at Hard Rock Stadium at 8:15 p.m. EDT on Thursday. Meanwhile, the Jaguars will face the Cleveland Browns in their next matchup at 1 p.m. on September 15 in Jacksonville.