In a closely contested preseason opener, the Miami Dolphins edged out the Atlanta Falcons with a 20-13 victory at Hard Rock Stadium on Friday night. Both teams showcased their emerging talents and tested their depth, with several rookies making notable contributions.
Atlanta’s rookie quarterback Michael Penix Jr., the eighth overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, made his much-anticipated debut. The former Washington standout completed 9 of 16 passes for 104 yards, demonstrating poise and potential in his first NFL action. Penix led the Falcons’ offense for five drives, including two that culminated in scores.
Penix’s highlight of the night was a 41-yard completion to wide receiver Chris Blair down the sideline midway through the first quarter. This impressive throw set up Younghoe Koo’s 39-yard field goal, putting Atlanta on the board early.
Penix also guided a scoring drive capped by Carlos Washington’s 1-yard touchdown run, showcasing his ability to manage the game and move the ball effectively. After a solid showing, Penix was replaced by veteran quarterback Taylor Heinicke with 6:40 remaining in the second quarter.
Despite missing several key veterans, including quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and star wide receiver Tyreek Hill, who were held out for rest after securing new contracts during training camp, the Dolphins rallied after an early deficit. Miami kicker Jason Sanders was instrumental, nailing two long field goals of 58 and 47 yards.
The Dolphins seized control of the game in the second quarter with two quick touchdowns. Rookie running back Jaylen Wright emerged as a key contributor, rushing 10 times for 55 yards, including a 6-yard touchdown that put Miami ahead. The touchdown was set up by a fumble recovery from linebacker Isaiah Mack, following a mishandled snap by Heinicke.
Quarterback Skylar Thompson also made an impact, connecting with Jeff Wilson Jr. on a 6-yard touchdown pass that tied the game at 10 apiece before Wright’s go-ahead score.
The second half saw both teams trading field goals, with Koo adding another for Atlanta, and Sanders responding in kind for Miami. The Falcons had opportunities to tie the game or take the lead in the fourth quarter but faltered in the red zone, turning the ball over on downs twice inside Miami’s 10-yard line.
Atlanta’s offense, now led by Heinicke after Penix’s departure, struggled to finish drives, and Miami’s defense held firm when it mattered most.
The game also marked the coaching debut for Falcons’ head coach Raheem Morris, who took the reins after Arthur Smith’s departure. Morris, known for his defensive acumen, will likely focus on refining the team’s offensive execution and capitalizing on red-zone opportunities as the preseason progresses.
For the Falcons, Penix is expected to serve as an understudy to veteran quarterback Kirk Cousins, who joined Atlanta on a four-year deal in the offseason. Penix’s performance, while not flawless, showed flashes of the talent that made him a top draft pick.
On the Dolphins’ side, the game provided a glimpse of the depth and resilience of their roster, particularly with the contributions from rookies like Wright. With veterans like Tagovailoa and Hill waiting in the wings, Miami looks poised to build on this preseason momentum as they prepare for the regular season.
The Falcons will look to bounce back in their next preseason matchup, while the Dolphins will aim to build on their winning start as both teams continue to shape their rosters for the 2024 season.
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