Miami Dolphins @ Indianapolis Colts
Final Score: Colts 33, Dolphins 8
Writer: Steven Pintado (@coachstevenp)
I’m not sure you could even call this a game because it was so one-sided in Indianapolis. Miami’s offense was slow and disorganized in the game today. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa cost three turnovers, and they really never got anything going until late in the game. At the same time, the Colts’ offense looked amazing as they worked down the field in the game. Daniel Jones and the passing game looked in sync, making big plays downfield and crushing the Dolphins’ secondary. This matchup raised some concerns for the Dolphins, while the Colts showed promise for a solid season.
Three Up
- Tyler Warren – The rookie TE was fantastic in this matchup. He was seeing work on early and often and being used all over the field.
- Michael Pittman Jr. – The veteran receiver seems to have a strong connection brewing with Daniel Jones and led the team in targets.
- Daniel Jones – Are we seeing a Sam Darnold-esque revival in Daniel Jones!? Jones played very well in this matchup, making great throws and continuing to show us his mobility with two rushing touchdowns today.
Three Down
- Tua Tagovailoa – It was a brutal day for Tagovailoa, with three turnovers and absolutely no time in the pocket for many plays to develop in the game.
- Ollie Gordon – The preseason hype around Gordon was high, but De’Von Achane showed that he was still the workhorse running back for the Dolphins’ offense.
- Josh Downs – Josh Downs seems to have fallen in the pecking order for targets as he finished with just three, while Pittman and Warren combined for 17.
Miami Dolphins
Quarterback
Tua Tagovailoa: 14/24, 114 Yards, TD, 2 INT | 1 Carry, 7 Yards, Fumble (LOST)
It was one of the worst games I’ve ever watched Tua Tagovailoa play in his career. Miami’s offense fell short on three of its first four drives due to turnovers by Tagovailoa. Both of his interceptions were completely on him, as they came off poor throws that sailed away from his receivers. The Dolphins quarterback was under siege all game, running for his life behind an offensive line that gave him very little time to operate. That same line also allowed a strip sack and multiple big hits on Tagovailoa in the pocket.
The Dolphins’ offense doesn’t look improved from 2024. Tagovailoa rarely attempted deep shots, which makes sense considering how little time he had to throw. The only moments he looked comfortable came late in the fourth quarter, when Miami was in garbage time. On that drive, he finally had enough protection to read his progressions and hit quick throws, leading to a late touchdown.
If Miami can’t figure out a way to protect Tagovailoa, this offense is going to be very tough to watch in 2025.
Zach Wilson: 5/8, 32 Yards | 1 Carry, 3 Yards
Backup Zach Wilson entered for the final drive with the game already out of reach. He didn’t fare much better than Tagovailoa, struggling to connect on a few open receivers and relying mostly on short throws. Wilson didn’t show anything that would suggest he’s a threat to Tagovailoa’s starting job.
Running Back
De’Von Achane: 7 Carries, 55 Yard | 4 Targets, 3 Receptions, 20 Yards, TD
Star running back De’Von Achane’s day was salvaged by a late touchdown. The score came on a short dump-off pass that Achane turned into a highlight play by breaking a few tackles and bursting into the end zone. Throughout the first half, it was clear he was the workhorse back, handling nearly all the touches in the backfield. In the second half, Achane finally broke off some big runs that gave the offense a much-needed spark. For Miami’s offense to find success this season, Achane will need more than just 10 touches a game; he has to be heavily involved.
Ollie Gordon: 2 Carries, 4 Yards | 1 Target, 1 reception, -1 Yards
One of the more surprising storylines was the lack of involvement from rookie running back Ollie Gordon. Despite the preseason hype, Gordon didn’t record a touch until the third quarter, when he was used on a short 3rd-and-1 play. Many expected him to complement Achane in a bigger role, but for now, it looks like he may only be used in specific situations. If Miami’s defense continues to struggle and the team is constantly playing from behind, it’s hard to see Gordon being a real factor in most games.
Alec Ingold: 2 Targets, 1 Reception, 1 Yard
Wide Receiver/Tight End
Tyreek Hill: 6 Targets, 4 Receptions, 40 Yards
Star receiver Tyreek Hill didn’t have a big game against the Colts, but he still led the team in targets. Most of his looks came in the short areas of the field, with very few opportunities downfield. His one true deep route was overthrown by Tagovailoa. Hill also didn’t look quite as explosive as we’ve seen in years past, which raises some concern that age might be catching up to him. His stat line could have looked better: one sideline catch that appeared to be good for about 15 yards went unchallenged by the Dolphins. Hill briefly left the game with a potential injury but returned shortly after. Despite the quiet outing, he should continue to be Miami’s top target moving forward.
Jaylen Waddle: 5 Targets, 4 Receptions, 30 Yards
Like Hill, Jaylen Waddle was limited mostly to short-area catches in this game. His best play came on a 16-yard slant in the fourth quarter. Waddle briefly left the game with a shoulder injury but was able to return to action. For Miami to unlock his full potential, the offense needs to find more creative ways to get him open in space, where his speed can make a difference. If the Dolphins’ offense doesn’t improve, Waddle could be in for another underwhelming season.
Malik Washington: 5 Targets, 2 Receptions, 20 Yards | 1 Carry, 9 Yards
Second-year receiver Malik Washington is another player Miami needs to get more touches in space. Each time he had the ball, he showcased his speed and agility, making defenders miss. He nearly added another reception but couldn’t keep his feet in bounds while trying to make a play along the sideline. Washington looked firmly established as the Dolphins’ third receiver given how often he was on the field.
Nick Westbrook-Ikhine: 2 Targets, 1 Reception, 7 Yards
The offseason signing of Nick Westbrook-Ikhine doesn’t appear likely to pay off for Miami. He saw limited snaps with the main offense and didn’t receive any targets until Zach Wilson entered the game late. Based on his usage, Westbrook-Ikhine is unlikely to play a significant role for the Dolphins this season.
Dee Eskridge: 2 Targets, 1 Reception, 9 Yards
Fifth-string receiver Dee Eskridge saw action on the final drive with the second-team offense. He projects more as a return specialist than a true receiving option for Miami. Late in the game, Zach Wilson missed him on what could have been a big play downfield.
Tanner Conner: 4 Targets, 2 Receptions, 20 Yards
Starting tight end Tanner Conner had a few decent catches in the game but failed to bring in a potential end-zone reception during Miami’s touchdown drive. He remains the backup to Darren Waller and is unlikely to see a major role in the passing game this season.
Indianapolis Colts
Quarterback
Daniel Jones: 22/29, 272 Yards, TD | 7 Carries, 26 Yards, 2 TD
What a day for Daniel Jones! In his first start for the Colts, Jones looked confident and in command of the offense. He read his progressions well, moved effectively in the pocket to avoid pressure, and consistently extended plays. The Colts’ offensive line gave him plenty of time to operate, which helped him make precise throws throughout the game. His touchdown pass to Michael Pittman Jr. was a beautifully placed deep throw, allowing Pittman to make a play and score. Jones also delivered near-perfect passes to Tyler Warren and Alec Pierce.
Jones showed off his dual-threat ability as well, rushing for 26 yards and scoring two touchdowns on the ground. Aside from one interception, there’s very little to criticize in his performance. While Miami’s secondary struggled, this game could signal the start of a rejuvenated season for Jones.
Running Back
Jonathan Taylor: 18 Carries, 71 Yards | 3 Targets, 3 Receptions, 27 Yards
Colts running back Jonathan Taylor had a solid outing in this game. It wasn’t his best performance, but it wasn’t his worst either. Taylor broke off some decent runs and showed burst on several plays, and it was encouraging to see Daniel Jones involve him in the passing game. However, many of his carries gained only two yards or fewer, which limited his overall impact. One disappointment was his inability to push into the end zone; Taylor had multiple opportunities to score but came up short. Still, he finished with 98 total yards, and there’s little concern—better games are likely ahead.
DJ Giddens: 12 Carries, 41 Yards
Rookie running back DJ Giddens saw plenty of work in his first NFL game, primarily late in the third quarter and into the fourth. He flashed his burst and vision on several runs, including a few gains around 10 yards, showing why he was an intriguing prospect entering the league. Giddens had opportunities to reach the end zone but was unable to convert. He remains the backup to Jonathan Taylor for now, with a limited role in the offense.
Ulysses Bentley V: 1 Carry
Wide Receiver/Tight End
Michael Pittman Jr.: 8 Targets, 6 Receptions, 80 Yards, 1 TD
Veteran receiver Michael Pittman Jr. was a bit of a surprise in today’s game. Pittman looked healthy, making some big plays and consistently finding space against Miami’s secondary. He emerged as one of Daniel Jones’ most trusted targets. His touchdown grab was impressive, beating his defender along the sideline and creating separation for an easy score. It was also encouraging to see Pittman generate yards after the catch, something he often struggles with when Josh Downs is on the field. With Jones showing clear trust in him, Pittman’s value this season looks strong.
Josh Downs: 3 Targets, 2 Receptions, 12 Yards
Downs didn’t see much work in today’s game. Daniel Jones rarely looked his way, despite Downs running some open routes. He was limited to a few short-area catches and didn’t have much opportunity to gain yards after the catch. In past seasons, Downs often served as a primary target when healthy, but that role may be changing in this new offense.
Alec Pierce: 3 Targets, 1 Reception, 36 Yards
Alec Pierce continued to serve as the Colts’ deep threat, with all of his targets coming downfield. His 36-yard reception was a beautifully placed ball by Daniel Jones, and Pierce adjusted well to keep his feet in bounds near the sideline. He will likely remain in that role as a vertical threat, but don’t expect him to see a high target share this season.
Adonai Mitchell: 2 Targets, 2 Receptions, 21 Yards,
Second-year receiver Adonai Mitchell needs more opportunities in the Colts’ offense, but he’s currently stuck in a crowded receiving room. He made two beautiful, tough catches in today’s game, showcasing the talent that could make him a starting receiver in the future. If he continues to play at this level, he may earn a larger role soon.
Tyler Warren: 9 Targets, 7 Receptions, 76 Yards | 1 Carry, 3 Yards
The arrival of Tyler Warren has already made an impact on the Colts’ offense. Warren was targeted early and often, with Daniel Jones using him as a safety blanket underneath. His route running and body control after the catch were impressive, and Miami had no answer for him. Warren also displayed strength, absorbing hits and breaking tackles for big gains. One of his 15-yard catches was negated by a penalty, which would have made his day even more impressive. Warren led the team with nine targets and appears to be the primary weapon in the Colts’ offense. He may continue the trend of a rookie tight end breaking out in his first season.
Mo Alie-Cox: 1 Target, 1 Reception, 20 Yards
Ashton Dulin: 1 Carry, 15 Yards