Rookie Ewers Leads Dolphins to 20-17 Victory Over Bucs
UPDATE: Rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers threw for 172 yards and two touchdowns, leading the Miami Dolphins to a thrilling 20-17 victory over the struggling Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday in Miami Gardens, Florida. This marks a pivotal moment as the Dolphins aim to finish strong despite being eliminated from playoff contention.
The Dolphins, now at 7-9, showcased resilience against the Bucs, who have now lost four consecutive games and seven of their last eight. Tampa Bay remains one game behind the Carolina Panthers for a playoff spot in the NFC South, a situation that intensifies with their upcoming showdown against Carolina next week.
In a game filled with tension, Baker Mayfield connected on 33 of 44 passes for 346 yards but struggled under pressure, throwing two interceptions. His latest pick came in the red zone as the Buccaneers were desperately trying to close a ten-point gap in the fourth quarter. Despite the setbacks, Mayfield brought the Bucs within three points with a 4-yard touchdown pass to Mike Evans with just 54 seconds left.
“We fought hard, but we need to execute better,” Mayfield said postgame. “We can’t keep digging ourselves into these holes.”
The Dolphins struck first with Ewers’ impressive 63-yard touchdown pass to rookie Theo Wease Jr., marking Ewers’ first career touchdown. He also connected with tight end Greg Dulcich for an 11-yard score, leading Miami to a commanding position early in the game. Running back De’Von Achane contributed with 18 carries for 83 yards, effectively navigating the Bucs’ seventh-ranked run defense.
The Buccaneers initially took the lead with a lengthy 16-play touchdown drive on their opening possession but faltered thereafter, allowing 17 unanswered points from the Dolphins. Despite a late field goal from Chase McLaughlin, who had a blocked 55-yard attempt earlier, Tampa Bay couldn’t secure the comeback, ending with a failed onside kick recovery.
Injuries plagued both teams during this intense matchup. The Buccaneers lost linebacker Haason Reddick and guard Michael Jordon to concussions, while the Dolphins saw players like linebacker Chop Robinson exit with injuries.
Looking ahead, the Buccaneers will host the Carolina Panthers next weekend, a must-win game if they hope to keep their playoff hopes alive. Meanwhile, the Dolphins will travel to face the New England Patriots as they look to build on this momentum.
This game not only impacts the standings but also highlights the urgent need for Tampa Bay to regroup and find their form before the playoffs, while Miami seeks to end their season on a high note.
