Miami Dolphins vs Detroit Lions

The Miami Dolphins pulled off a 24–17 win over the Detroit Lions at Ford Field, showcasing the depth of their roster and the impact of rising talent. With starters mostly resting, the game served as a proving ground for backups and rookies, highlighting key contributors who could play meaningful roles during the regular season. The contest featured fast drives, clutch plays, and several momentum-shifting moments that kept fans engaged.

Quarterback play defined much of the action. Zach Wilson led the Dolphins early, completing passes efficiently for 151 yards and a touchdown. Rookie Quinn Ewers also impressed, throwing two second-half touchdown passes to wide receiver Theo Wease Jr., who finished with six receptions for 80 yards and proved to be a reliable target in crucial moments. Detroit countered with Kyle Allen, who completed 14 of 17 passes for 124 yards and two touchdowns, making his case as the leading backup option for the Lions’ roster.

The running game provided balance for both teams. Miami leaned on their ground attack to control tempo and sustain drives, while Detroit used short passes and quick runs to keep their offense moving. Wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa made a notable impact for Detroit, hauling in a touchdown and showcasing his potential as a deep-threat option. These contributions demonstrated that both teams have emerging talent capable of influencing games beyond the regular starters.

Defensively, the Dolphins showcased their playmaking ability. Rookie cornerback Jason Marshall Jr. led the team in tackles, and linebacker Channing Tindall recorded a sack and a tackle for loss, setting the tone for Miami’s defense. Detroit’s defense also made key plays, with cornerback Nick Whiteside and defensive back Erick Hallett breaking up multiple passes, highlighting the strength and depth of the Lions’ secondary.

Special teams and field position played an understated role in the contest. Dolphins punter Jake Bailey averaged 47.3 yards per punt, consistently flipping the field, while Lions punter Jack Fox matched his performance. By the final whistle, Miami had capitalized on big plays and defensive stops, but Detroit left the field with encouragement from their rookies and backups, signaling that both teams have promising depth as the 2025 season approaches.