The Miami Dolphins wrapped up their 2024 home schedule in dramatic fashion with a victory over the San Francisco 49ers at Hard Rock Stadium.
Despite being eliminated from playoff contention, the 49ers arrived determined to play Grinch to Miami’s postseason dreams.
In a matchup filled with history and high stakes, Miami emerged victorious, 29-17, keeping its slim playoff hopes alive while delivering another loss to the 49ers team that had been seeking redemption.
Jonnu Smith
Dolphins tight end Jonnu Smith stole the spotlight in this pivotal game, cementing his place in Miami Dolphins history.
Smith broke franchise records for the most receptions and receiving yards in a season by a tight end, with 802 yards and 76 receptions and counting so far, both of which are career highs for him.
Smith’s journey from Florida International University (FIU) to becoming a cornerstone of the Dolphins offense this season is significant.
“God is good all the time,” said Smith after the game. “All praise is due to my lord and savior Jesus Christ. It’s been an eventful year for me, man. You know what I mean? From the standpoint of individually obviously, but just from the standpoint of coming in here and going through OTAs and training camp and knowing the plan, but just exceeding the expectations.”
Smith’s rise has been fueled by hard work and a strong belief in his faith and abilities. His connection with Dolphins tight ends coach Jon Embree has also been instrumental in his development.
“‘Embo’ (Jon Embree) has been such a huge part of this thing right here, man,” Smith said. “Just the standard that he holds me to every day. If you look at the list of guys he had, it’s no secret his type of coach. His belief in me has allowed me to take my game to another level.”
Jon Embree has coached pro bowlers like George Kittle and Hall of Famers like Tony Gonzalez.
A Historic Return
This game marked the 49ers’ first visit to Hard Rock Stadium since their heartbreaking loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in Super Bowl LIV.
Unfortunately for San Francisco, history repeated itself as the team fell short on Miami’s home turf. Despite being eliminated from playoff contention, the 49ers played purposefully, aiming to spoil Miami’s postseason aspirations.
Deebo Strikes First
The game opened with both teams feeling each other out. The Dolphins scored first with a Jason Sanders field goal, but the 49ers struck first in the second quarter when quarterback Brock Purdy connected with Deebo Samuel for a touchdown. The score energized the visitors, but Miami answered with another Sanders field goal and a signature Tyreek Hill touchdown reception to take a 10-7 lead.
Tua’s Milestone Moment
That touchdown pass was more than just another highlight for the Dolphins; it marked Tua Tagovailoa’s 100th career touchdown pass as a Miami Dolphin.
The milestone underscored Tagovailoa’s growth as a leader and playmaker for Miami.
“I just found that out today,” said Tagovailoa postgame. “That’s cool. That’s awesome that we got to do that in a win. But regarding the accolades and whatnot, that’s probably least on my mind. I’m just trying to find ways to end the season the way we want to and control what we can control.”
A Nail-Biting Fourth Quarter
The game’s final act was a rollercoaster of emotions. With Miami holding a narrow 22-17 lead late in the fourth quarter, the 49ers mounted a determined drive to take the lead.
However, Dolphins defensive back Kader Kohou delivered a game-sealing interception, halting the 49ers’ comeback hopes.
On the ensuing possession, running back Devon Achane provided the exclamation point with a 50-yard touchdown run, sending the Hard Rock Stadium crowd into a frenzy and cementing the Dolphins’ victory.
Playoff Hopes Hang by a Thread
The Dolphins improved to 7-8 with the win, but their path to the playoffs remains precarious.
Miami must win its final two games and hope for help from other teams in the crowded AFC playoff picture.
“I think that mindset, for all the stuff to go on during the year, for the naysayers to be aplenty, I was just proud of this effort and the guys’ effort in general. And that gives you a chance to win December football,” said coach Mike McDaniel.
“Regardless, unless you’re playing in February, you also have to get adept at experiencing that, going through that, having some momentum, and then going back and applying it to the next opponent because no one cares about one win in December or January realistically,” he added.
Looking Ahead
The Dolphins will now hit the road for their final two games, knowing each is a playoff game. Next up for the Dolphins is a trip to Cleveland to face the Browns on Dec. 29, followed by a matchup against the New York Jets on Jan. 5. Both games are expected to be in frigid temperatures.
For Miami fans, Sunday’s win was a reminder of the team’s potential and a glimmer of hope that their playoff dreams are still alive, at least for another week.
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