Let’s dive deep into the Miami Dolphins’ narrow 28-27 loss to the Arizona Cardinals and examine the five pivotal plays that shaped this contest at Hard Rock Stadium. With Tua Tagovailoa back in the lineup, the Dolphins were hoping to turn their recent luck around, but it was a game of fine margins, and these key moments made all the difference.
- Harrison’s Diving Catch
Harrison’s spectacular 16-yard diving catch became a turning point early in the fourth quarter.
The Cardinals were on shaky ground facing third-and-4, trailing 27-18. Thanks to a successful replay challenge, the catch stuck, giving Arizona a crucial first down.
The pass from Kyler Murray under heavy pressure from Jordyn Brooks showcased Murray’s resilience, mirroring some classic quarterback grit. Had this play resulted in an incompletion, we might have seen the Cardinals punting from their own 36-yard line instead.
This catch kept Arizona’s offensive momentum alive, setting the stage for what was to come.
- Murray’s Third-Down Run
In the closing moments, Murray showed why he’s one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the league.
On a critical third-down play, he darted around the edge, evading Emmanuel Ogbah, ensuring the Dolphins’ defense wouldn’t see the field again. This run was more than just yards; it was a dagger that sealed Miami’s fate, leaving them hoping for a miracle missed field goal from Arizona.
Unfortunately for the Dolphins, Murray’s clutch play left them without a final shot at redemption.
- The Dolphins’ Last Offensive Play
While much of the focus might be on the Dolphins’ defense giving up the decisive field goal drive, let’s not forget Miami’s missed opportunity on offense.
Facing a crucial third-and-9 at Arizona’s 47-yard line, immediate pressure closed in on Tua Tagovailoa. With little time to react, he offloaded a short pass to De’Von Achane in the flat, merely bypassing the potential sack but not advancing the sticks.
This failed conversion left the Dolphins vulnerable, setting up Arizona’s eventual game-winning drive.
- Conner’s Key Run
On the Cardinals’ decisive final drive, Miami seemed to have regained control, placing Arizona in a first-and-20 predicament.
However, Marvin Harrison Jr.’s 18-yard catch quickly shifted momentum. The real backbreaker came when James Conner, who had been largely contained all day, blasted through the middle for a crucial 17-yard run.
It wasn’t just any run—it was a display of power and determination, dragging defenders along and positioning Arizona well within field goal range at Miami’s 33-yard line, redefining the complexion of the game’s final chapter.
- The Safety
Though it will command headlines, the safety that put Miami up 20-12 was deceptive in its impact.
While it extended Miami’s lead, the ensuing Arizona touchdown brought the Cardinals right back, narrowing the gap to 20-18. This sequence shifted the game’s momentum and mood when Miami seemed to be cruising.
The safety altered the psychological landscape of the game, giving Arizona renewed vigor.
Each of these moments contributed to the high drama at Hard Rock Stadium, encapsulating a comeback victory that will sting for Miami but showcased the Cardinals’ tenacity and skill in clutch situations.