Oct 24, 2023 - Sports

Dolphins drop their second game of the season

Everett Cook

Head coach Mike McDaniel of the Miami Dolphins shows frustration — Coach Mike McDaniel gets frustrated during the second half against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday night. Photo: Tim Nwachukwu/Getty Images

The Dolphins (5–2) are still in first place in the AFC East, so the sky is not falling. But after losing to the Philadelphia Eagles (6–1) on Sunday night, 31–17, it no longer appears they will run away with the division.

It's Miami's second loss of the season after falling in Week 4 to the Buffalo Bills.

Why it matters: The offense has looked like an all-time unit at times — but the Dolphins' five wins have come against teams that are now a combined 8–25 this season.

Driving the news: The Eagles almost completely shut down the Dolphins' vaunted rushing attack, which finished with 45 yards after averaging more than 180 over the first six games.

And the defense was helpless against the Eagles' near-unstoppable "Tush Push" play when they needed to get a stop. Philadelphia converted all four of its fourth-down tries, including two in the fourth quarter that helped put the game away.

The other side: Positives include an 11-catch performance from wide receiver Tyreek Hill, wide receiver Jaylen Waddle returning to the game after injuring his back and Miami holding the Eagle's powerful rushing attack to just 2.9 yards per carry.

What's next: The Dolphins head back home to Hard Rock Stadium this Sunday for a 1pm game against the New England Patriots (2–5), a longtime division rival.

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Dolphins drop their second game of the season

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