As the Miami Dolphins head to Los Angeles for a Week 10 Monday Night Football matchup, both teams are looking to find consistency amid challenging seasons. The Dolphins, despite a disappointing 2-6 record, have been revitalized by the recent return of quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who’s been highly efficient and is giving Miami fans hope for a strong finish. The Rams, at 4-4, have had an up-and-down season but boast a disruptive defense led by emerging talent Braden Fiske. Both teams need a win to stay in the playoff conversation, making this primetime matchup an intriguing contest.
Since returning from injured reserve two weeks ago, Tagovailoa has shown sharp accuracy, completing 80.3% of his passes with three touchdowns and zero interceptions. His highlight was an impressive 14-play, 97-yard drive capped with a 14-yard touchdown pass to De’Von Achane against the Buffalo Bills. Miami’s offense thrives when Tua is in rhythm, and his ability to maintain composure under pressure will be critical against a Rams defense that has found renewed interior strength.
Rookie defensive tackle Braden Fiske has been a bright spot for the Rams, showing dominance with two sacks and two tackles for loss in their last game against the Seahawks. Drafted with high expectations, Fiske has stepped into the Rams‘ defensive front as a formidable force, recording three sacks and four tackles for loss over his last five games. His presence could be a game-changer, especially given Miami’s injury concerns on the offensive line.
This matchup pits two former teammates, both familiar with each other’s strengths, in a head-to-head battle. Kupp returned from an ankle injury to quickly resume his role as the Rams’ top target, racking up 16 catches for 155 yards and a touchdown in the last two games. Ramsey, recently back on the field for the Dolphins, is coming off a strong game with his first interception of the season against Buffalo. He has the ability to disrupt Kupp’s routes, and their history adds an extra layer of intrigue as they bring their practice battles to game day.
The Dolphins have historically dominated this series, leading 12-2 and winning five straight against the Rams. The Rams’ last win over Miami dates back to 2001, when they were still in St. Louis, which is also their only home victory in this series. Miami has won all four of their meetings in Los Angeles, adding a psychological edge for the Dolphins heading into this contest.
For the Dolphins, Tagovailoa’s efficiency and leadership will be crucial. His recent form shows he’s capable of moving the ball and avoiding costly turnovers, but the offensive line will have to hold up against a Rams pass rush led by Fiske. Achane’s contributions in both the run and pass games could take pressure off Tua and provide the Dolphins’ offense with more versatility.
The Rams need another strong performance from Fiske to disrupt Tagovailoa’s rhythm and test Miami’s patchwork offensive line. Offensively, Los Angeles will rely on Kupp’s ability to break free from Ramsey’s coverage. If Kupp can find open space, it will give the Rams a reliable option on third downs and in the red zone.
With both teams battling inconsistency, this game could come down to key matchups and execution in critical moments. The Dolphins will need to keep the chains moving against a Rams defense that’s getting better each week, while the Rams’ success depends on whether they can protect QB Matthew Stafford long enough to exploit the Dolphins’ secondary.
Key Injuries
Dolphins
- WR Tyreek Hill (wrist): Questionable, did not practice Friday or Saturday
- RT Austin Jackson (knee): Out
- S Jevon Holland (hand/knee): Questionable
- DT Zach Sieler: Expected to return after missing two games with a fractured orbital bone
Rams
- RT Rob Havenstein (ankle): Out
- Warren McClendon Jr. will likely replace Havenstein, though OT Joe Noteboom, recently activated from injured reserve, is also an option.
