Dolphins Keep Playoff Hopes Alive with Dominant Win Over Browns

The Miami Dolphins kept their playoff aspirations intact with a 20-3 victory over the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. The win improved Miami’s record to 8-8, leaving them just one game shy of the final AFC wild card spot.

The Dolphins’ defense was the key to the win, stifling Cleveland’s offense and limiting them to just 276 total yards. Rookie quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson struggled against Miami’s relentless pressure, completing only 24 of 47 passes for 170 yards and an interception. Miami’s defensive dominance was punctuated by crucial plays, including linebacker Tyrel Dodson’s game-changing interception and a key fourth-and-1 stop late in the second quarter.

Quarterback Tyler Huntley was solid in his fourth start of the season, leading Miami with precision and athleticism. Huntley completed an impressive 22 of 26 passes for 225 yards and a touchdown while adding 52 rushing yards and another score on the ground. His dual-threat performance was pivotal in Miami’s offensive efficiency.

The Dolphins took an early lead with Jason Sanders’ 54-yard field goal, his ninth consecutive make from beyond 50 yards this season. While Cleveland tied the game with a field goal of their own, Miami’s defense and Huntley’s steady leadership helped them retake control. Huntley’s 13-yard rushing touchdown and a seven-yard scoring pass to Jonnu Smith sealed the game, with Smith tying the Dolphins’ single-season record for touchdowns by a tight end.

Wide receiver Tyreek Hill led the Dolphins’ offense with nine receptions for 105 yards, while rookie Malik Washington contributed four catches for 41 yards. The Dolphins’ complementary play on both sides of the ball demonstrated their readiness for high-stakes football.

Miami will face the New York Jets in their regular-season finale, needing a win and help from other results to secure a playoff berth. With Tua Tagovailoa potentially returning from injury, the Dolphins have a golden opportunity to continue their postseason push. Sunday’s performance against Cleveland showed that Miami is peaking at the right time, with a chance to make a splash in the AFC playoff race.

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