Dolphins Keep Playoff Hopes Alive With 29-17 Win Over 49ers

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — In a game critical for their slim playoff aspirations, the Miami Dolphins (7-8) triumphed over the San Francisco 49ers (6-9) with a commanding 29-17 victory on Sunday. Cornerback Kader Kohou’s late-game interception sealed the win, showcasing a team determined to keep their postseason dreams alive.


Tua Tagovailoa led the offense with 215 passing yards and a touchdown, while Jason Sanders delivered five clutch field goals, including a 54-yarder. Running back De’Von Achane starred with 190 all-purpose yards and a game-sealing 50-yard touchdown run, embodying the team’s fight to stay in contention.

“The whole year, even when things weren’t going our way, I always knew we had a playoff team,” said Kohou, who emphasized the team’s playoff mindset.

Stro
The Dolphins’ defense stepped up in pivotal moments, pressuring 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy into mistakes. Defensive tackle Calais Campbell played a critical role, forcing Purdy into Kohou’s interception late in the fourth quarter.

“There’s a lot of fight left in us,” said Campbell. “As long as we’re alive, we’re going to act like we’re alive.”

Linebacker Jordyn Brooks also shined before leaving the game with an injury, amassing seven tackles and becoming the first Dolphins player since Zach Thomas in 2006 to record over 120 tackles and at least three sacks in a season.


While Tyreek Hill had an inconsistent day, catching only 3 of 7 targets for 29 yards and a touchdown, tight end Jonnu Smith was a bright spot. Smith broke the franchise single-season records for receptions (76) and receiving yards (802) by a tight end, delivering key plays to keep Miami’s drives alive.

Achane’s electrifying 50-yard touchdown run with under two minutes left served as an exclamation point for the Dolphins’ balanced attack.


San Francisco entered the game already eliminated from playoff contention due to earlier results. Despite a strong effort by Purdy, who threw for 313 yards and two touchdowns, the 49ers couldn’t overcome 11 penalties for 90 yards and critical mistakes in the fourth quarter.

Deebo Samuel provided a highlight with his first touchdown since Week 6, muscling his way into the end zone on a 16-yard reception. However, the team’s struggles ultimately ensured their first losing season since 2020.


Jason Sanders continued his stellar season, going 5-for-5 on field goals, including three from 50-plus yards. He extended his streak of consecutive field goals to 23, setting a Dolphins record.

Playoff Picture
The Dolphins must now win their final two games against the Cleveland Browns (3-11) and New York Jets (4-10) while relying on losses by teams ahead of them, including the Broncos, Colts, and Chargers. Despite their slim chances—3.7% according to ESPN’s Football Power Index—the Dolphins are fighting to keep their postseason hopes alive.

“We’re just trying to win every game,” Kohou said. “We’re not ready for the season to be over.”

With their backs against the wall, the Dolphins proved on Sunday that they won’t go down without a fight.

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