In a must-win game, the Miami Dolphins defeated the San Francisco 49ers 29-17 on Sunday to keep their playoff aspirations alive. Powered by a balanced performance from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa and kicker Jason Sanders, the Dolphins (7-8) remain in the hunt for a postseason berth. Meanwhile, the 49ers (6-9) were officially eliminated from playoff contention earlier in the day due to victories by the Los Angeles Rams and Washington Commanders.
Tua Tagovailoa finished 22-of-34 for 215 yards and a touchdown, but the Dolphins’ offense struggled to convert opportunities into touchdowns early. Miami moved into 49ers territory three times in the first half but settled for three field goals before Tagovailoa connected with Tyreek Hill for a 3-yard touchdown late in the second quarter.
Jason Sanders was pivotal, hitting five field goals, including a 54-yarder, to improve his season total to 11-of-13 from beyond 50 yards. His accuracy proved crucial as the Dolphins maintained control of the game despite inconsistent performances from their star players.
Hill, Miami’s top wideout, continued his up-and-down season, catching just three of seven targets for 29 yards and a touchdown. He also had three costly drops, including one on a potential score in the third quarter. After the game, Hill took accountability, saying, “I’ve got to be better for this team.”
San Francisco’s night was marred by penalties and missed opportunities. The 49ers were flagged 11 times for 90 yards, with three crucial penalties late in the fourth quarter gifting the Dolphins 25 yards on a critical drive. Miami capitalized with Sanders’ 48-yard field goal, extending their lead to 24-17.
The 49ers showed signs of life in the fourth quarter when quarterback Brock Purdy found tight end Eric Saubert for a 2-yard touchdown, cutting the deficit to two points. Purdy, who finished 26-of-40 for 313 yards and two touchdowns, led a valiant effort but couldn’t overcome the team’s mistakes.
After punting the ball back to Miami with 6:45 remaining, San Francisco’s consecutive penalties allowed the Dolphins to regain momentum. On the following 49ers drive, Purdy was pressured by Dolphins defensive tackle Calais Campbell and threw a critical interception to Kader Kohou.
Miami sealed the game on the ensuing possession with a 50-yard touchdown run by rookie running back De’Von Achane, who broke free against a weary San Francisco defense.
The Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith set franchise records for receptions (76) and receiving yards (802) in a single season, catching six passes for 62 yards. Jason Sanders a perfect 5-of-5 on field goals, Sanders once again showcased his reliability, particularly on long kicks. Deebo Samuel the 49ers receiver caught his first touchdown since Week 6, muscling his way into the end zone on a 16-yard reception.
The Dolphins, now 7-8, must win their final two games and hope for losses by both the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers to secure a postseason spot. Up next, Miami faces the Cleveland Browns on the road.
For the 49ers, the loss ensures a losing season for the first time since 2020. They’ll look to bounce back against the Detroit Lions at home next Monday night.
Miami’s victory highlighted their resilience, but with little margin for error, the final weeks of the season will determine whether they can overcome long odds to secure a playoff berth.
