Dolphins Escape with 20-17 Victory Over Buccaneers in Wild Week 17 Showdown

The Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Buccaneers entered their Week 17 matchup with identical 6-9 records, both teams determined to avoid concluding their disappointing seasons on a negative note. What ensued was a competitive clash that highlighted the challenges faced by both teams while also revealing moments of brilliance.

First Quarter Fireworks

The game commenced with both offenses displaying impressive capability. Tampa Bay struck first when Baker Mayfield successfully located Chris Godwin in the end zone for a 5-yard touchdown pass. The veteran receiver, who has been diligently working to reclaim his performance following ankle surgery, exhibited his dependable hands even in challenging situations.

Miami quickly responded with an explosive play of their own. Quarterback Quinn Ewers launched an impressive 63-yard touchdown pass to Theo Wease Jr., demonstrating the deep-ball accuracy that has elevated his status as a promising quarterback prospect. The first quarter concluded in a 7-7 tie, setting the stage for an electrifying contest.

Second Quarter Drama

The second quarter became the domain of Miami's formidable ground game and opportunistic defense. De'Von Achane, who has established himself as the Dolphins' undisputed lead back this season, began to assert his dominance on the field. The electrifying running back navigated through Tampa Bay's struggling defense with ease, creating valuable scoring opportunities through his speed and keen vision.

Miami's defense orchestrated a critical turnover when a defender intercepted a pass from Mayfield that was intended for Jalen McMillan. This interception paved the way for a methodical drive that culminated in an 11-yard touchdown pass from Ewers to Greg Dulcich, granting the Dolphins a 14-7 lead at halftime.

Tampa Bay had opportunities to retaliate, but a blocked field goal attempt by a Dolphins defender prevented them from scoring, even as they managed to move the ball effectively.

Third Quarter Adjustments

In the third quarter, Tampa Bay's offense finally discovered its rhythm. Mayfield, who had been underwhelming compared to his impressive 2024 season, began establishing a stronger connection with his receivers. Jalen McMillan, a second-year receiver seeking consistency, started to make impactful plays down the field.

The Buccaneers methodically advanced down the field, with Bucky Irving contributing significantly both in the running game and through the air. Ultimately, Tampa Bay settled for a field goal, trimming Miami's lead to 14-10 as both teams prepared to enter the final quarter.

Fourth Quarter Thriller

Miami extended their lead early in the fourth quarter with another successful field goal, raising the score to 17-10. Yet Mayfield and the Buccaneers were far from finished. Despite having thrown two interceptions during the game, the veteran quarterback demonstrated resilience by leading a dramatic late-game comeback effort.

With less than a minute remaining, Mayfield connected with Mike Evans for a 4-yard touchdown pass. Evans, who has faced injuries this season while striving to maintain his streak of 1,000-yard seasons, delivered in a crucial moment for his team. This touchdown leveled the score at 17-17, and the Buccaneers successfully converted the extra point, creating a tie.

However, Miami had one final response. In the closing moments of the game, they executed a field goal, securing a 20-17 victory and prompting jubilant celebrations from the home crowd.

Looking Ahead

This triumph improves Miami's record to 7-9, offering them a slight sense of pride to conclude what has been a frustrating season. The Dolphins exhibited glimpses of the potential that initially fueled their hopes earlier in the year, with Achane's 83 rushing yards and Ewers' two touchdown passes instilling optimism for the future.

Conversely, Tampa Bay's loss brings their record to 7-9, extending their losing streak to four games. Despite Mayfield's impressive 346 passing yards and solid performances from Godwin (108 receiving yards) and McMillan (114 receiving yards), the Buccaneers ultimately fell short of executing the comeback.

Both teams will aim to conclude their seasons on a positive note in Week 18, seeking to build momentum as they transition into the offseason and prepare for the next year's campaigns.