Miami Dolphins (1-0) – Jacksonville Jaguars (0-1): 20-17
Nothing was easy for Miami in this first game of the season. It started before the game with Tyreek Hill stopped by the police two hours before kickoff for a traffic violation. Very present, the receiver nevertheless held his rank (7 receptions, 130 yards, 1 TD). Inoffensive and silent for most of the first half, the Dolphins saw their salvation in a very strong defensive performance after the locker room, and in particular a brilliant action by Javon Holland who changed the momentum and put his team back on track.
Trevor Lawrence (12/21, 162 yards, 1 TD) faded as the game progressed, allowing the opponent to regain hope. Without shining, Miami won this Florida derby on the wire.
Miami still on vacation
Presented as the best attack in our pre-season power ranking, the Dolphins had a hard time getting into their game. Four first sterile possessions that left the Jaguars plenty of time to take control of the game. Travis Etienne first on the ground, then rookie Brian Thomas on the reception score. We have to wait until the last minute before the break to see the Miami attack enter the red zone and put itself in a position to score. It is Devon Achane who reduces the score on a 1-yard run.
Dolphins defense leads the way
Still struggling after the break with 2 new punts, Miami got back into the game in two plays. An exceptional save by Javon Holland snatched the leather from Etienne's hands 3 yards from the line as he was heading into the end zone. Immediate punishment. On the next play, Tua Tagovaiola (23/37, 337 yards, 1 TD) found Tyreek Hill who went on to score an 80-yard touchdown.
The defense has clearly raised its voice. Four forced punts, a 4e Attempt stopped and fumble snatched, the Jags' no longer advance. And Miami, having come back to level, gives itself the possibility of going for the victory in the last two minutes. Without brilliance, the attack manages to put Jason Sanders in position for the winning field goal. From 52 yards, the kicker offers a snatched victory for Jason McDaniels' men.
