The Miami Dolphins earned a much-needed 23-15 victory over the Los Angeles Rams in a game that highlighted both teams’ struggles this season. Last year’s playoff contenders, Miami and Los Angeles, have faltered due to inconsistency and untimely errors. For Miami, the win snapped a three-game losing streak and offered a glimmer of hope at 3-6. The Rams, now 4-5, saw their playoff aspirations dim after losing their momentum from a three-game winning streak.
This game may leave both teams with regrets. The Dolphins will wonder what might have been had Tua Tagovailoa not missed time with a concussion and if narrow losses earlier in the season had gone their way. The Rams, under Sean McVay, were uncharacteristically sloppy, and their inability to capitalize on opportunities led to a disappointing performance at home.
The first half was defined by missed opportunities and mistakes. Miami started strong with an efficient touchdown drive but faltered offensively for the remainder of the half. Los Angeles, meanwhile, struggled to find any rhythm, turning the ball over and failing to protect quarterback Matthew Stafford. A late Rams field goal kept the game within reach at halftime, with Miami leading 10-6.
In the second half, the Rams’ woes continued. A mishandled snap and penalties erased a chance at a critical field goal, while their inability to score touchdowns in the red zone proved costly. Miami, despite its own offensive inconsistencies, took advantage of Los Angeles’ mistakes. A long reception by Jonnu Smith set up a Tyreek Hill touchdown, pushing the Dolphins’ lead to 17-6.
Late-game execution made the difference. The Dolphins managed the clock effectively, extending their lead to 11 points with a 50-yard field goal by Jason Sanders in the final minutes. The Rams had chances to close the gap but settled for field goals instead of finding the end zone, which ultimately sealed their fate.
Defensive play was a bright spot for both teams in an otherwise sloppy contest. Miami’s defense sacked Stafford multiple times, including critical third-down stops, and stifled the Rams’ offense that had shown promise in recent weeks. Los Angeles also forced turnovers, but their offense failed to capitalize on those opportunities, leaving points on the board.
Tua Tagovailoa had an up-and-down performance, with a costly interception and fumble but also delivered key plays in crucial moments. Jason Sanders was the most consistent performer for Miami, converting three field goals, including two from beyond 50 yards. On the other side, Stafford’s 293 passing yards lacked a touchdown, and the Rams’ offense struggled to execute when it mattered most.
This game underscored the Dolphins’ potential when playing to their strengths. With Tagovailoa healthy and their defense performing at a high level, Miami remains a dangerous team despite its 3-6 record. However, the margin for error is razor-thin as they must be nearly perfect to keep their postseason hopes alive.
For the Rams, this loss raises questions about their ability to compete in the NFC playoff race. Their lack of discipline and failure to convert opportunities into points highlight deeper issues. Both teams face an uphill battle, but Monday’s result showed Miami was better prepared to capitalize on the moment.
