CLEVELAND — In an unexpected turn, Tyler Huntley stepped up as the starting quarterback for Tua Tagovailoa, leading the Dolphins to a crucial 20-3 victory over the Cleveland Browns. This win has kept Miami’s hopes for the playoffs alive as they enter their final game of the season with a record of 8-8.
With Tagovailoa sidelined due to a hip injury, Huntley made a significant impact, scoring one touchdown on the ground and throwing for another. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel expressed pride in Huntley’s performance, highlighting how well he handled the pressure, despite initial doubts about Tagovailoa’s availability right until game time. “This was not ideal in any way, shape, or form,” McDaniel remarked, acknowledging the challenges faced by the team.
To secure a playoff spot, Miami must achieve a win against the New York Jets next Sunday while hoping for a loss from the Denver Broncos against the Kansas City Chiefs. Unfortunately for the Dolphins, the Chiefs are expected to rest many of their star players, including quarterback Patrick Mahomes, making the path ahead uncertain for Miami.
Dolphins defensive tackle Calais Campbell shared his excitement, stating, “For the first time in my life, I’m about to be a huge Chiefs fan.” He further emphasized that while the situation was not guaranteed, the team still had a fighting chance to reach the postseason. Huntley’s performance reassured the team that they have a capable quarterback in the wings, especially with Tagovailoa’s status still questionable.
Huntley completed 22 of 26 passes for 225 yards and maintained a turnover-free game, demonstrating growth in his role. He previously spent the summer with the Browns before being signed by the Dolphins in September after Tagovailoa’s concussion.
Despite facing his former team, Huntley dismissed any thoughts of revenge, stating, “When I left, that was it.” Campbell noted the positive impact Huntley’s signing had for the Dolphins after Cleveland decided to release him.
Planning for the future also loomed large for the Browns. With a dismal 3-13 record and a fifth consecutive loss, they face the prospect of significant changes in the offseason, including a possible search for a new quarterback as they prepare for the 2025 draft. Coach Kevin Stefanski, however, remains confident in his position amid the team’s struggles, emphasizing the ongoing efforts to improve.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson, starting for the second game in a row, encountered difficulties, completing only 24 of 47 passes for 170 yards while suffering an interception and a fumble. Campbell pointed out the Dolphins’ defense was effective against him, consistently applying pressure.
The weather conditions—windy and wet—complicated matters for both offenses, but the Dolphins adapted better. Huntley showcased his agility with a 13-yard touchdown run, extending Miami’s lead to 13-3 mid-game. Receiver Tyreek Hill praised Huntley for making pivotal plays throughout the match, noting that Tagovailoa had made significant efforts to try to play despite his injury concerns.
The Dolphins faced potential moments of tension when the Browns threatened to narrow the lead. However, cornerback Jalen Ramsey thwarted their attempts, breaking up a critical fourth-and-goal pass in the end zone. Huntley later connected with tight end Jonnu Smith for a touchdown that solidified Miami’s victory, while kicker Jason Sanders added field goals to round out the scoring.
Browns defensive end Myles Garrett celebrated his 29th birthday by achieving two sacks, bringing his season total to 14, marking his fourth consecutive year of double-digit sacks, a remarkable feat in NFL history.
In terms of injuries, both teams dealt with significant setbacks. The Dolphins lost left tackle Terron Armstead to a knee injury, while several Browns players, including cornerback Denzel Ward and running back Jerome Ford, faced health issues that impacted their participation in the game.
Looking ahead, the Dolphins are set to conclude their regular season against the Jets next Sunday, while the Browns will head to Baltimore for their upcoming match.
