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Washington Commanders Fall Short Against Miami Dolphins: A Defensive Battle at Hard Rock Stadium

In a tightly fought preseason encounter during Week 2, the Washington Commanders traveled to Hard Rock Stadium only to be edged out by the Miami Dolphins in a low-scoring affair. The scoreboard reflected a modest 13-6 victory for the hosts, leaving both squads with much to ponder. With this result, the Commanders find themselves searching for their first win of the preseason at 0-1-0, while the Dolphins kick off their campaign on a positive note at 1-0-0.


Miami Dolphins kicker Jason Sanders (7) kicks a field goal during the second half of a preseason NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rhona Wise)

The night was marked by defensive dominance from both teams. Washington's defense shone brightly, racking up four sacks and prying away two turnovers from Miami's grasp. Linebacker Jamin Davis made his presence felt with a sack and forced fumble, effectively stifling Miami's offensive rhythm. Javontae Jean-Baptiste also made significant contributions with another sack and quarterback hit that added pressure on Miami's offense.


Special teams played a pivotal role for Washington as well, with Tress Way punting six times to accumulate 273 yards and managing to pin two punts within the critical 20-yard line zone. Way's efforts underscored Washington’s tactical approach but also underscored their challenges in sustaining drives and converting them into points.


Miami Dolphins running back De'Von Achane (28) runs with the football during the first half of a preseason NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Rhona Wise)

Offensively, consistency eluded Washington despite rotating three quarterbacks throughout the game. Trace McSorley led with 93 passing yards but his performance was marred by an interception that stalled momentum. Jeff Driskel offered some efficiency completing 73 percent of his passes for 82 yards but failed to lead any scoring drives.


The ground game provided glimpses of potential with Driskel not just passing but also leading in rushing with an impressive scramble of 41 yards out of his total 45 rushing yards on the night – offering fleeting moments of optimism among Commander supporters craving offensive sparks.


Miami Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa (1) warms up before a preseason NFL football game against the Washington Commanders, Saturday, Aug. 17, 2024, in Miami Gardens, Fla. (AP Photo/Wilfredo Lee)

Despite commendable individual performances across defense, special teams, and offense – it proved insufficient against a determined Dolphins squad who seized their moments more effectively.


As they regroup from this defeat in humid Miami Gardens before an audience exceeding sixty-four thousand spectators; focus shifts towards improvement as they head back to Commanders Field in Landover for their upcoming match against New England Patriots on August 25th at eight o'clock PM Eastern Daylight Time broadcast live on NBC aiming for refinement ahead of regular season play.


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