Fresh off of a Week One loss to the Las Vegas Raiders, the Miami Dolphins traveled to northern California to square off against the San Francisco 49ers in Week Two. Despite a competitive first half, the boys in aqua and orange imploded in the second half — ultimately losing the game by a score of 35-13.
In a year when we weren’t expecting the Dolphins to amass a lot of wins, they’re certainly meeting those expectations. However, despite the current struggles, there are glimmers of hope to be found
if your sights are set on the future and not necessarily on the here and now. Taking their lumps in 2026 could allow the team to blossom in 2027 or 2028 once the organization establishes a solid foundation and clears out the massive amount of dead cap currently on the books.
Still, it still hasn’t been a pleasant experience watching the Dolphins play through two games this season. Regardless, we’re going to trudge along and bring to you the good, bad and ugly from each contest. Let’s dive in.
GOOD
Malik Willis connects with Ryan Miller for deep touchdown late
The San Francisco 49ers defense is loaded with stars. From Nick Bosa to Fred Warner, Dre Greenlaw and others, the 49ers boast a ferocious opposition for offenses to face. They took it to Miami’s offense for most of Sunday’s clash, however, late in the contest, Dolphins quarterback Malik Willis uncorked a beautiful deep ball to wide receiver Ryan Miller — finding the pass catcher streaking up the sideline. Miller brought the ball in and took it all the way to the house — good for a 77 yard score.
It’s in moments like that where you see the vision new general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan had when signing Willis to a three-year deal in the offseason. Of course, with little weaponry surrounding him besides running back De’Von Achane, it isn’t always going to look pretty for Willis this season.
However, with Sunday’s bomb to Miller, Willis has now thrown his first touchdown as a member of the Miami Dolphins. Here’s hoping there are plenty more to come.
BAD
Dolphins defense couldn’t stop 49ers passing attack
While the 49ers’ defense is loaded with talent, the Dolphins’ defense isn’t. To make matters worse, their top pass rusher, third-year EDGE defender Chop Robinson, missed Sunday’s game due to a concussion suffered in practice just a few days prior to the game.
On Sunday, 49ers quarterback Brock Purdy had his way with Miami’s defense to the tune of 20 completions on 22 attempts for 287 passing yards and and two passing scores. Tight end George Kittle reeled in 4 balls for 80 yards and a touchdown. Wide receiver Mike Evans tallied 3 receptions for 54 yards, while running back Christian McCaffrey added 4 catches for 43 yards.
Whenever the 49ers needed a play to be made, they let Purdy go to work — and he rewarded that faith by finishing with a 149.1 passer rating against Miami.
UGLY
Dolphins offensive line dominated by 49ers defense
While Miami’s defense faltered, San Francisco’s didn’t. All day long, 49ers defenders had their way with the Dolphins’ offensive line. Kadyn Proctor struggled. Jonah Savaiinaea struggled. Austin Jackson struggled. Patrick Paul had his share of mistakes as well.
The 49ers finished with four sacks on Sunday. That’s 9 sacks through two games for this Dolphins team. If offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik wants his side of the ball to play better, he’s going to have to scheme up some help for his offensive line. Malik Willis and his mobility is propping this unit up as best as he can, but it still hasn’t been enough.
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The Dolphins went winless on their West Coast roadtrip to open the season. The team starts off the Jeff Hafley era with an 0-2 record with the Kansas City Chiefs coming to town next Sunday. Do you think the Dolphins can keep it close against Patrick Mahomes, Ken Walker III, Travis Kelce and company this week? Let me know in the comments below or on Twitter at @MBrave13. Fins up.
