The Miami Dolphins will face off against the Washington Commanders on Saturday night at Hard Rock Stadium, marking a significant moment in their NFL preseason. Unlike their previous exhibition match against the Atlanta Falcons, where most starters did not participate, the Dolphins are expected to showcase key players this time around.
Fans can look forward to seeing stars like quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, wide receiver Tyreek Hill, running back Raheem Mostert, and cornerback Jalen Ramsey, along with first-round draft pick edge rusher Chop Robinson. Head coach Mike McDaniel indicated that the intention is for starters to see some game time, although the exact playing time for individual players remains uncertain.
However, the Dolphins will be without leading receivers Jaylen Waddle and Odell Beckham Jr. due to injuries. Beckham’s lack of participation throughout the summer has raised some eyebrows, particularly since he signed a $3 million contract with the team.
While it remains unclear how many series the starters will play, it’s anticipated they will be on the field for two or three series in the first half. Afterward, fans can expect to watch players vying for final roster spots as the preseason nears its conclusion.
In game updates, Jason Sanders missed a 49-yard field goal attempt early in the fourth quarter after Miami moved into Washington territory. To open the second half, Sanders successfully converted a 33-yard field goal, extending Miami’s lead to 13-6. This score was set up by a significant 59-yard run from Chris Brooks, who left the game after a tough hit.
The Commanders struggled with their kicking game as Riley Patterson made a 38-yard field goal just before halftime, leaving the score at 10-6 in favor of the Dolphins. Patterson has converted only two of five field goal attempts during the preseason.
Dolphins owner Stephen Ross praised Tagovailoa’s performance, noting the importance of retaining promising young talents like Tua and Waddle. Following a solid opening drive, Tagovailoa threw a 13-yard touchdown pass to River Cracraft, putting Miami ahead 7-0. In total, Tagovailoa completed all five of his passes for 51 yards throughout the drive.
On the other side, the Commanders’ Jayden Daniels, the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, began the game at quarterback but faced challenges as his opening drive ended in a missed 49-yard field goal attempt.
The Dolphins-Commanders matchup is set for 7 p.m. on August 17 at Hard Rock Stadium, with coverage available on several local channels and streaming options like NFL+, Fubo, and YouTube TV.