Tua Tagovailoa had a tough evening on Thursday, throwing three interceptions before leaving the game due to concussion symptoms. The Miami Dolphins suffered a significant defeat to the Buffalo Bills, 31-10.
Tagovailoa struggled against the Bills’ defensive line (now 2-0) and was tackled hard by Damar Hamlin late in the third quarter after a run that brought the Dolphins to the 10-yard line. He managed to walk off the field but headed directly to the locker room. Shortly after, the Dolphins confirmed that he wouldn’t return to the game.
Backup quarterback Skylar Thompson, a seventh-round pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, stepped in for Tagovailoa. However, Miami’s offense faltered, turning the ball over after four plays and missing a critical scoring opportunity.
Last year, Tagovailoa had an impressive, injury-free season, finishing with 29 touchdown passes and leading the NFL with 4,624 passing yards. He recently signed a four-year, $212 million contract extension and was the top quarterback in passing yards after Week 1 of the current season.
By the time Tagovailoa exited, the Bills had already secured a comfortable 31-10 lead, thanks in part to running back James Cook, who scored two rushing touchdowns and added a third receiving touchdown. The Bills maintained their dominance for the final 15 minutes, further diminishing Miami’s chances.
The Dolphins’ only touchdown came from running back De’Von Achane, who caught a pass from Tua Tagovailoa to tie the game at 7-7 in the first quarter, responding to a quick Bills score.
Tyreek Hill, who faced media attention following his recent arrest near Hard Rock Stadium, was limited to just three catches for 24 yards, and a single 12-yard rush.
Miami also suffered another blow when veteran tackle Terron Armstead left the game with a shoulder injury. Though his return was initially uncertain, he was taken to the locker room for further testing.
Expectations were high for head coach Mike McDaniel and the Dolphins this season, but the results after two games are less than promising. Last week, Miami narrowly defeated the Jacksonville Jaguars at home.
The Dolphins will now have 10 days to regroup before traveling to Seattle for their next game against the Seahawks. Meanwhile, the Bills will face the Jaguars again in a prime-time Monday night showdown on September 23.