The Miami Dolphins (4-6) secured their second straight win of the season with a 34-19 triumph over the struggling Las Vegas Raiders (2-8). Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa delivered a commanding performance, throwing three touchdown passes and orchestrating long, methodical drives that kept the Raiders’ defense on its heels throughout the game.
One of the highlights came in the second quarter when tight end Jonnu Smith waved his left arm downfield to get Tagovailoa’s attention. The Raiders‘ secondary failed to pick him up, leaving Smith wide open for a 57-yard catch-and-run touchdown. The play electrified Hard Rock Stadium, with Smith’s teammates celebrating before he even crossed the goal line. It was a season-best performance for Smith, who finished with 101 yards receiving on just four catches.
Tagovailoa completed 28 of 36 passes for 288 yards, throwing touchdowns to Smith, Tyreek Hill, and Jaylen Waddle. Hill’s eight-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter was his second score in as many games, part of a solid 61-yard day for the star receiver.
“It’s all about execution,” Tagovailoa said postgame. “We’ve been working to find our rhythm, and today felt like we’re moving in the right direction.”
Tagovailoa’s efficiency wasn’t limited to big plays. The Dolphins methodically chewed up the clock with three scoring drives of more than seven minutes, their ball control neutralizing the Raiders’ attempts to claw back into the game.
Miami’s rushing attack also contributed to the win. Running back De’Von Achane carried the ball 17 times for 73 yards, including a bruising two-yard touchdown in the third quarter that extended Miami’s lead to 24-13. The Dolphins’ 30-point output marked their highest-scoring game of the season, a notable improvement from an offense that has struggled to replicate last year’s explosive form.
While Miami’s offense shined, the defense played its part in sealing the victory. Cornerback Jalen Ramsey intercepted Raiders quarterback Gardner Minshew in the fourth quarter, halting a potential comeback. Ramsey’s pick was Minshew’s 13th turnover of the season, adding to the quarterback’s woes after being briefly benched for Desmond Ridder in Week 10.
Minshew, however, showed flashes of resilience, completing 30 of 43 passes for 282 yards. Tight end Brock Bowers was his favorite target, hauling in 13 catches for 126 yards in a breakout performance. Yet, the Raiders struggled to capitalize in the red zone and extend drives, a recurring theme during their six-game losing streak.
For Miami, the win signals a potential turning point. Coming off a gritty Monday night victory over the Rams, the Dolphins are building momentum as they chase a wildcard spot in the AFC.
“We’ve faced adversity, but this team is coming together,” Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel said. “It’s not always about how you start; it’s about how you finish.”
The Raiders, meanwhile, continue their spiral. With a sixth consecutive loss, their playoff hopes are all but extinguished. They’ll look to regroup with a home game against the Denver Broncos next week.
The Dolphins will aim to extend their winning streak when they face the New England Patriots in a AFC East clash nest Sunday.
