The Miami Dolphins are set to pursue their fourth consecutive win in season openers as they get ready to take on the Jacksonville Jaguars at Hard Rock Stadium this Sunday. It marks the first time the Dolphins kick off their season against the Jaguars, the last team from the AFC they haven’t faced in an opener.
The Dolphins have an overall opener record of 32 wins, 25 losses, and one tie, with many memorable matches over the years. Here’s a recap of the top 10 most thrilling, significant, and unique games among them:
10 — 1995: Miami trounced the New York Jets with a score of 52-14, leveraging six Jets turnovers to secure a 38-point victory.
9 — 2014: The Dolphins, led by standout performances from new signing Knowshon Moreno and defensive powerhouse Cameron Wake, overpowered the New England Patriots 33-20, thanks in large part to a flawless second half.
8 — 1972: In the first game at Arrowhead Stadium, the Dolphins set the tone for their undefeated season by beating Kansas City 20-10, capitalizing on four turnovers and a strong game from Larry Csonka.
7 — 1984: Dan Marino dazzled with five touchdown passes against Washington, heralding what would be a record-breaking season with a 35-17 win.
6 — 1992: Rescheduled due to Hurricane Andrew, the Dolphins’ season began with a dramatic 27-23 victory over Cleveland, highlighted by a late Mark Higgs touchdown.
5 — 1999: Facing off against the post-John Elway Denver Broncos, Miami’s clean play and a defensive touchdown by Jason Taylor led to a convincing 38-21 win on Monday night.
4 — 2001: On Sunday night, the Dolphins overcame the Tennessee Titans 31-23 on the road, featuring a memorable pick-six by new Hall of Famer Zach Thomas.
3 — 2018: Marked by two lengthy lightning delays, making it the longest NFL game ever at over seven hours, this 27-20 victory over Tennessee was filled with critical big plays.
2 — 2023: In a nail-biter at SoFi Stadium, Miami’s passing attack, powered by Tua Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill, edged out the LA Chargers 36-34 after multiple lead changes and a crucial late defensive stand.
1 — 1994: Dan Marino’s return from an Achilles tendon injury was legendary, leading Miami to a 39-35 victory over New England with a clutch last-minute touchdown pass to Irving Fryar for his third of the day, marking a memorable and triumphant comeback that fans still celebrate.
