The Baltimore Ravens delivered a statement win on Thursday night, dismantling the Miami Dolphins 28-6 in a game that showcased Lamar Jackson's electric return and left Miami fans searching for answers.
Jackson Shines After Injury Layoff
Lamar Jackson, back from a right hamstring strain that sidelined him for three weeks, looked every bit the two-time MVP. He threw for
204 yards and four touchdowns, completing 18 of 23 passes with remarkable efficiency. Jackson's poise and precision were evident as he connected on his first nine passes of the second half, putting the game out of reach before the fourth quarter even began.
Tight end
Mark Andrews was Jackson's favorite target, hauling in two touchdowns. Charlie Kolar and Rashod Bateman also found the end zone, with Bateman's 9-yard score sealing the rout late in the third quarter.
Dolphins' Offense Falters Amid Costly Mistakes
Miami quarterback
Tua Tagovailoa managed 261 passing yards but couldn't overcome a series of blunders. The Dolphins outgained Baltimore in the first half and held the Ravens to just one third-down conversion, but turnovers and penalties proved fatal.
- Rookie Tahj Washington fumbled at the Dolphins' 4-yard line, setting up a Ravens touchdown.
- Riley Patterson missed a crucial 35-yard field goal after a false start penalty.
- Malik Washington fumbled at the Ravens' 10-yard line, ending Miami's best scoring chance in the fourth quarter.
Running back
De'Von Achane provided a spark with 67 rushing yards, and Jaylen Waddle led receivers with 82 yards, but Miami's only points came from two long field goals.
Injuries and Frustration Mount for Miami
The Dolphins' night went from bad to worse as several key players left with injuries, including rookie running back Ollie Gordon (ankle), linebacker Chop Robinson (concussion), safety Ifeatu Melifonwu (toe), and cornerback Rasul Douglas (toe). Head coach
Mike McDaniel voiced his frustration after the loss, acknowledging the team's 2-7 record and the growing impatience among fans.
"It sucks," McDaniel admitted, reflecting the mood in Miami Gardens as fans exited the stadium early.
What This Means for Both Teams
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Ravens (3-5): With Jackson healthy and the offense clicking, Baltimore is suddenly a contender in the wide-open AFC North. Derrick Henry's 119 rushing yards added balance, and the defense capitalized on Miami's mistakes.
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Dolphins (2-7): Miami's playoff hopes are fading fast. The team must address turnovers, penalties, and injuries to salvage the season. Fan frustration is at a boiling point, and changes may be on the horizon.
Actionable Takeaways and Future Implications
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Baltimore heads to Minnesota next Sunday, looking to build on their momentum.
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Miami will host Buffalo, hoping to regroup and end their losing streak.
If the Dolphins can't clean up their execution and get healthy, expect more tough nights ahead. For the Ravens, Jackson's return could be the spark that reignites their season.
Sources
1. Baltimore Ravens vs. Miami Dolphins Live Score and Stats
2. Dolphins 27 Jets 21: Jets are the worst team in the NFL
3. Late for Work: Ravens 'Looked Like the Ravens Again' in Dominant Win over Dolphins
4. Lamar Jackson expected to play Thursday for Ravens versus Dolphins
5. Game Recap: Lamar Jackson Leads Ravens Past Dolphins in Return
6. Dolphins losing fan base if changes not made - The Phinsider
7. Mike McDaniel shares fans' frustrations in latest loss, which pushed Dolphins to 2-7: 'It sucks'
8. Dolphins vs. Ravens Week 9 'TNF' open thread - Buffalo Rumblings
9. Baltimore Ravens vs Miami Dolphins Game Highlights - YouTube
10. NFL News, Scores, Stats, Standings and Rumors - CBS Sports
11. Covers.com - Sports Betting Odds, Lines, Picks & News 2025
12. Bleacher Nation | Chicago Sports News, Rumors, and Analysis
