Tennessee Titans vs Miami Dolphins Match Player Stats: In-Depth Breakdown of Key Performances and Turning Points

Introduction

The matchup between the Tennessee Titans and the Miami Dolphins was one of the most anticipated games of the season. Both teams came into this clash with playoff aspirations, but very different trajectories. The Titans, known for their gritty defense and calculated offense, squared off against a Dolphins team that has often relied on explosive plays and fast starts. The contest offered insight into each team’s strengths, weaknesses, and depth.

Game Overview

The Tennessee Titans defeated the Miami Dolphins 28-27 in a game that went down to the wire. The Titans mounted a 15-point comeback in the fourth quarter, scoring two touchdowns in the final five minutes. The Dolphins, missing key starters due to injury, failed to hold their lead in critical moments. This game was a clear example of execution under pressure and showcased how pivotal decision-making and depth can impact the final result.

Tennessee Titans Offensive Player Statistics

Quarterback: Will Levis

Will Levis had one of the most composed performances of his rookie season. He finished the game completing 23 of 38 passes for 327 yards, 1 touchdown, and no interceptions. Levis managed the pocket well and made crucial completions in high-pressure scenarios, including a game-winning touchdown drive.

Running Backs

• Derrick Henry: Henry had a solid outing, finishing with 19 carries for 78 yards and a touchdown. He also added 3 receptions for 16 yards. His ability to keep drives alive through short gains and second-effort plays was instrumental in tiring out Miami’s defensive front.
• Tyjae Spears: Spears contributed 7 carries for 33 yards and made an impact in the receiving game with 4 receptions for 49 yards. His versatility allowed the Titans to switch tempo during critical possessions.

Offensive Line

The Titans’ offensive line gave up two sacks but generally provided Levis with enough time to scan the field. Their pass protection improved notably in the fourth quarter, which allowed Levis to operate more freely during the comeback.

How Tennessee Achieved Victory in This Match

The Titans won through a combination of patience, resilience, and late-game execution. They capitalized on Miami’s defensive fatigue and missing personnel. The defense made timely stops while the offense remained poised, especially in the final quarter. Levis remained calm and consistent, targeting different receivers and using the middle of the field effectively.

Miami Dolphins Offensive Player Statistics

Quarterback: Mike White (Starting in place of Tua Tagovailoa)

With Tua sidelined due to injury, Mike White stepped in and had a mixed performance. He completed 21 of 34 passes for 236 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions. White started strong but struggled under pressure in the second half, particularly during Tennessee’s late surge.

Running Backs

• Raheem Mostert: Mostert led the backfield with 16 carries for 64 yards and a touchdown. His production dropped in the second half as the Titans’ defense tightened its run containment.
• De’Von Achane: Achane had 9 carries for 40 yards and caught 3 passes for 28 yards. His speed posed a threat, but his usage was limited during the critical late-game drives.

Receivers

Titans

• DeAndre Hopkins: Hopkins recorded 6 receptions for 102 yards. His route-running and reliable hands helped sustain several important drives.
• Nick Westbrook-Ikhine: Contributed 4 catches for 59 yards and played a key role in blocking and short-yardage situations.
• Chigoziem Okonkwo: The tight end caught 5 passes for 71 yards, offering Levis a dependable outlet in the middle zones.

Dolphins

• Tyreek Hill: With Tua out, Hill was targeted 9 times but only came down with 5 receptions for 63 yards. He scored a touchdown but was largely neutralized in the second half.
• Jaylen Waddle: Waddle caught 4 passes for 44 yards. His influence was limited due to consistent coverage and an underwhelming passing rhythm from White.
• Durham Smythe: The tight end provided short-yardage support with 3 catches for 26 yards.

Defensive Statistics: Tennessee’s Key Advantages

The Titans defense made critical plays in the second half. Jeffery Simmons anchored the defensive line with 5 tackles and 1 sack. Harold Landry III added pressure off the edge and contributed 4 tackles with a forced fumble.

Key Stats:

• 2 interceptions (Elijah Molden and Amani Hooker)
• 3 sacks
• 5 tackles for loss
• 6 quarterback hits

The secondary held up in crucial moments, including a fourth-quarter interception that turned momentum in Tennessee’s favor. Their ability to close off deep options forced the Dolphins to play a short-yardage game, reducing their explosiveness.

Dolphins’ Challenges: Offensive Difficulties in Tua’s Absence

Tua’s absence was felt throughout the game. Mike White was serviceable early on but failed to stretch the field. Timing with receivers, particularly Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle, seemed inconsistent. Miami’s offense lacked rhythm and failed to respond under pressure. The offensive line allowed 3 sacks and 8 quarterback pressures. Without Tua’s quick release and decision-making, the offense became predictable. Additionally, the play-calling leaned conservative late in the game, which played into Tennessee’s defensive strengths.

Quarterly Breakdown

1st Quarter

• Dolphins took an early 7-0 lead with a 12-play, 75-yard drive ending in a Mostert rushing touchdown.
• Titans responded with a field goal (Nick Folk, 42 yards).
  Score: 7-3 Dolphins

2nd Quarter

• Mike White connected with Tyreek Hill for a 25-yard touchdown pass.
• Titans countered with a Henry touchdown run from 3 yards out.
  Score: 14-10 Dolphins

3rd Quarter

• Dolphins controlled possession and added a field goal.
• Titans’ drive stalled inside the red zone; they settled for a second Folk field goal.
  Score: 17-13 Dolphins

4th Quarter

• Dolphins opened with another touchdown (White to Waddle, 14 yards).
• Titans began comeback: Levis connected with Okonkwo for a 28-yard gain, setting up a Spears rushing touchdown.
• Following a Dolphins 3-and-out, Titans scored again with a 17-yard pass from Levis to Hopkins.
• Titans defense stopped Dolphins’ final drive on 4th and 3.
  Final Score: 28-27 Titans

Special Teams: Nick Folk’s Memorable Performance

Veteran kicker Nick Folk was instrumental. He went 2-for-2 on field goals (42 and 37 yards) and converted all extra points. His kickoffs consistently pinned the Dolphins inside the 25-yard line. Folk’s consistency continues to be a strength for Tennessee, and his calm demeanor proved vital during the Titans’ comeback.

Five Key Plays That Altered the Outcome

1. Elijah Molden Interception (3rd Quarter) – With the Dolphins driving, Molden intercepted White at the Titans’ 22-yard line, halting momentum and preventing a possible two-score lead.
2. Spears 18-yard Run (4th Quarter) – Broke multiple tackles to reach the red zone and set up a quick touchdown, sparking Tennessee’s rally.
3. Levis-to-Hopkins Touchdown (Final 2 Minutes) – A perfectly timed slant route, exploiting single coverage, capped the comeback.
4. Fourth Down Stop (Final Drive) – Titans defensive front collapsed the pocket on 4th and 3, forcing White into an incompletion.
5. Nick Folk’s Late PAT – After the final touchdown, Folk nailed the extra point to give the Titans a one-point lead, which ultimately sealed the win.

Injury Update

Miami Dolphins:

• Tua Tagovailoa (concussion protocol): Did not play.
• Terron Armstead (LT): Left in 3rd quarter with knee injury; did not return.
• Bradley Chubb: Missed the game due to a knee injury sustained in the previous week.

Tennessee Titans:

• Treylon Burks: Inactive due to hamstring tightness.
• Kristian Fulton: Left the game briefly but returned in the 4th quarter.
• No major injuries reported during the game.

Implications of This Game

Tennessee’s victory keeps them in contention for a Wild Card spot. The resilience displayed in this win could serve as a turning point for their season. Will Levis’ continued development gives the Titans hope for both the present and futureFor Miami, the loss was a setback in their push for the AFC East title. More concerning was the lack of offensive identity without Tua. The defense also showed signs of vulnerability late in the game, which could become problematic against playoff-caliber opponents.

Future Prospects

Titans:
They’ll face the Houston Texans next, a team also battling for playoff positioning. If Levis continues his upward trend and the defense maintains intensity, Tennessee could make a late-season push.

Dolphins:
The status of Tua remains critical. If he returns next week, the offense can reestablish rhythm. However, consistency on defense and offensive line protection must be addressed regardless of the quarterback situation.

Final Thoughts

The Titans-Dolphins game was a classic case of execution under adversity. Tennessee proved that persistence, effective adjustments, and steady quarterback play can overcome early deficits. Miami’s inability to close the game, especially without their starting quarterback, raised significant concerns. As the playoff race tightens, both teams now face increased pressure. The Titans left with momentum and confidence, while the Dolphins are left with questions about depth, adaptability, and the importance of staying healthy in key positions.

FAQS

1. How did Will Levis perform in the Titans vs Dolphins match?
Will Levis threw for 327 yards with one touchdown, leading a critical fourth-quarter comeback.

2. Why did Miami struggle against Tennessee?
Miami lacked rhythm with backup quarterback Mike White and couldn’t protect their late lead in the final quarter.

3. Who stood out among the Titans’ receivers?
DeAndre Hopkins caught six passes for 102 yards, delivering big plays in high-pressure moments.

4. How was Nick Folk’s role important?
Nick Folk stayed perfect on field goals and extra points, helping the Titans keep pace and finish the comeback.

5. What was the biggest defensive moment for Tennessee?
Elijah Molden’s interception in the third quarter stopped a Dolphins scoring drive and shifted momentum.