Miami Dolphins Keep Playoff Hopes Alive With Crucial Win Over 49ers

The Miami Dolphins were determined to keep their slim playoff chances alive, and they did just that with a 29-17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers. After a devastating loss to the Houston Texans in Week 15, which had significantly reduced their postseason hopes, the Dolphins showed resilience and grit, ensuring their journey for a wildcard spot would continue.

The win brought their record to 7-8, but it wasn’t just about the victory on the scoreboard—it was about showing the world that they still had a fighting chance. As cornerback Kader Kohou said, “We’re still thinking playoffs, and we’re just trying to win every game.” And that’s exactly what they did.

Tua Tagovailoa Steers the Dolphins to Victory

Tua Tagovailoa played a pivotal role in the Dolphins’ victory, completing 22 of 34 passes for 215 yards and one touchdown. While not a jaw-dropping performance, Tagovailoa’s precision and calm demeanor were crucial as Miami needed every point to stay alive in the playoff race. He also showed his leadership in key moments, particularly when Tyreek Hill caught a 3-yard touchdown pass just before halftime to give the Dolphins a 13-7 lead.

Tagovailoa has had his ups and downs this season, but he showed his maturity and poise in this must-win game. “That was something that we needed to see as a team together,” Tagovailoa said after the game, emphasizing how Miami was able to play complementary football in all three phases—offense, defense, and special teams.

Miami’s Defense: The Real Difference-Maker

The Dolphins’ defense stepped up when it mattered most. While Brock Purdy had a solid game, throwing for 313 yards and two touchdowns, it was Miami’s defense that ultimately decided the outcome.

Kader Kohou’s interception of Purdy late in the fourth quarter, after Calais Campbell pressured the quarterback, helped seal the game for the Dolphins. This interception was pivotal because it gave Miami the ball back with enough time to make a final push and De’Von Achane’s 50-yard touchdown run added the final nail in the coffin.

Self-Inflicted Wounds Doom the 49ers

Despite a valiant effort from the 49ers, particularly from Deebo Samuel, who caught his first touchdown since Week 6, the 49ers’ mistakes were too costly. San Francisco was penalized 11 times for 90 yards, which stalled several promising drives. At one point, illegal substitution, unnecessary roughness, and offsides penalties gave the Dolphins 25 yards in just two plays, setting up a 48-yard field goal by Jason Sanders that extended Miami’s lead.

After that, Kohou’s interception sealed the deal, and the 49ers’ season officially ended with a 6-9 record, ensuring they would have a losing season for the first time since 2020.

Key Takeaways: Dolphins’ Road to the Playoffs

The Dolphins now face an uphill battle, needing to win their final two games and get some help from other teams, particularly the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers, who must lose their remaining games for Miami to clinch a playoff spot.

Here are the key takeaways from Miami’s win over San Francisco:

• Tua Tagovailoa: 22 of 34, 215 yards, 1 touchdown
• Kader Kohou: Late interception to seal the win
• Jason Sanders: Perfect 5-for-5 on field goals, including a 54-yarder
• De’Von Achane: 50-yard touchdown run to finish the game
• Tyreek Hill: 3 receptions, 29 yards, 1 touchdown (accountable for drops)
• Jonnu Smith: Set Dolphins’ single-season franchise records for receptions (76) and receiving yards (802)

Tyreek Hill’s Inconsistent Season Continues

Tyreek Hill’s performance was a microcosm of his season—uneven but still impactful. Hill caught just 3 of 7 targets for 29 yards and a touchdown, but the drops on the first two drives of the game were notable. In particular, Hill blamed himself for the missed opportunity on a potential 70-yard touchdown early in the game.

“I completely blame myself for not getting my head around and not seeing the ball,” Hill said after the game. Despite his inconsistencies, Hill remains a key player for Miami, and the team will need him to be sharper in their final two regular-season games.

Special Teams Standout: Jason Sanders

One of the most consistent players for the Dolphins this season has been kicker Jason Sanders. He was 5-for-5 on field goals in this game, including a 54-yard kick that proved essential in keeping the Dolphins ahead. Sanders has been 11 of 13 on field goals over 50 yards this season, demonstrating his clutch abilities.

Miami’s special teams, led by Sanders, have been reliable throughout the season, and his performance against San Francisco was a big reason why the Dolphins kept their playoff dreams alive.

The 49ers’ Struggles and Injuries

The 49ers were hampered by injuries throughout the game. Key players like LB Dre Greenlaw (right calf), LG Aaron Banks (knee), and LT Jaylon Moore (quad) all left the game with injuries. DE Leonard Floyd played through a shoulder injury but was not at 100%. These injuries disrupted the 49ers’ ability to find any real momentum on either side of the ball.

Despite the 49ers’ loss, Deebo Samuel’s 16-yard touchdown in the second quarter was a highlight. After a tough start to the season, it was nice to see the star receiver getting back to form. However, San Francisco’s playoff dreams were extinguished long before the game ended.

What’s Next for the Dolphins?

With the 7-8 record and playoff hopes still alive, Miami faces a crucial final stretch to secure a postseason berth. They must win both of their remaining games and hope for losses from the Broncos and Chargers.

• Week 17: Dolphins vs. Jets
• Week 18: Dolphins vs. Patriots

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Can the Dolphins still make the playoffs with a 7-8 record?
A: Yes, the Dolphins can still make the playoffs, but they need to win their final two games and hope for losses by the Denver Broncos and Los Angeles Chargers.

Q: What happened to the 49ers’ playoff hopes?
A: The 49ers were eliminated from playoff contention before the game due to wins by the Los Angeles Rams and Washington Commanders earlier in the day.

Q: How did Miami win despite Tyreek Hill’s inconsistency?
A: Despite his drops, Miami’s balanced attack, including Tua Tagovailoa’s steady play, Jason Sanders’ field goals, and a strong defensive effort, helped Miami secure the win.

Q: What injuries affected both teams?
A: Miami lost WR Jaylen Waddle (knee injury), and defensive players Kendall Fuller and Jordyn Brookes also left the game. San Francisco lost key players like LB Dre Greenlaw and LG Aaron Banks.