DOLPHINS SQUAD SHOW: Miami Dolphins Starters SHINE, Backups COLLAPSE in 20-7 Loss to Commanders

The Miami Dolphins opened their preseason matchup against the Washington Commanders looking like a completely different football team. Malik Willis commanded a brilliant 14-play, 93-yard touchdown drive, De’Von Achane powered the ground game, Caleb Douglas continued his breakout summer with another spectacular catch, Malik Washington remained reliable, and Miami’s starting offensive line delivered perhaps its most encouraging performance of camp. Then the starters came out. Washington outscored Miami 20-0 after the Dolphins’ opening touchdown, exposing major questions about Miami’s roster depth. Quinn Ewers struggled badly, finishing 1-of-8 for 27 yards with an interception, while Cam Miller threw two more interceptions as Miami’s backup quarterbacks combined for three turnovers. The Dolphins also battled dropped passes, holding penalties, a personal foul that drew an immediate reaction from Jeff Hafley, inconsistent offensive-line depth and questions about where reliable reinforcements will come from behind the starters.