Miami Dolphins Defeat Cleveland Browns: A Game Summary
The Miami Dolphins traveled to Huntington Bank Field this Sunday, December 31, 2024, to face the Cleveland Browns in a crucial game for playoff aspirations. The Dolphins entered the matchup needing a win after the Cincinnati Bengals had secured their playoff spot with a victory the previous day. Amidst the pressure, they delivered, defeating the Browns decisively with a score of 20-3.
Game Highlights
The Dolphins took an early lead in the first quarter with a 54-yard field goal by kicker Jason Sanders. The Browns responded in the second quarter with a field goal of their own from Dustin Hopkins, tying the game at 3-3. However, Miami regained the lead just before halftime with another field goal, making it 6-3 heading into the break.
The Dolphins then launched an offensive surge in the second half, with quarterback Tyler Huntley scoring a rushing touchdown from 13 yards out. This increased their lead to 13-3. In the final moments of the game, Huntley’s short pass to Jonnu Smith for a touchdown capped off the Dolphins’ tally at 20 points.
Cleveland’s Struggles
On the other hand, the Cleveland Browns experienced significant challenges throughout the game, struggling offensively under quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson. The young quarterback threw for only 170 yards and managed to complete only 24 out of 47 passes, contributing to two turnovers. Despite the defense’s commendable efforts, including several strong tackles and key sacks by Myles Garrett, who finished the night with two sacks and caused a fumble, the Browns were unable to find the end zone, concluding their scoring at just three points.
Player Highlights
- Tyler Huntley (Dolphins QB): Completed 22 out of 26 passes for 225 yards, along with two rushing touchdowns.
- Myles Garrett (Browns DE): Made history with his two sacks, marking 14 sacks for the season, becoming the first in NFL history to achieve this in four consecutive seasons.
- Jonnu Smith (Dolphins TE): Caught a touchdown pass, increasing his season tally.
The Dolphins improve their record to 8-8, keeping their playoff hopes alive as they head into the final week of the NFL season, while the Browns fall to 3-13, marking a disappointing season.
What’s Next?
The Dolphins will look to secure their playoff spot in next week’s matchup, while the Browns aim to end their season on a high note as they prepare to face the Baltimore Ravens.
