The Miami Dolphins scored a highly improbable victory on Sunday, prevailing over the hapless Baltimore Ravens, 15-13. On a day when Miami earned only 8 first downs all day, Raven mistakes, especially two critical throws by Raven quarterback Matt Schaub, made the difference.
The Dolphin offense was doing nothing on its own. Their first four possessions resulted in four punts.
Baltimore looked like they would break on top in the second quarter, but an 80-yard drive resulted in no points when Miami made a goal line stand to take over on their own 2.
A Dolphin punt followed, but on the Ravens’ next possession, Schaub threw his first interception. Reshad Jones returned it to the Baltimore 38, followed by a Ryan Tannehill to DeVante Parker touchdown pass on the subsequent play for a 7-0 lead.
Three plays later, Schaub was picked off again, this time by Derrick Shelby, who took it 22 yards for another score. Jay Ajayi ran in a two-point conversation for a 15-0 lead.
Trailing 15-3, the Ravens got back in the game in the second half with a Schaub to Javorius Allen 41-yeard touchdown pass that made it 15-10. The fourth quarter saw them draw within two and had an opportunity to take the lead after recovering a Lamar Miller fumble at the Miami 41.
Justin Tucker’s 55-yard field goal attempt was wide right, ending Baltimore’s last scoring threat.
The Dolphins gained only two first downs in the second half. The Ravens had 22. Baltimore dominated time of possession, holding the ball for 38 minutes to Miami’s 22.
Miami ran only 46 plays for 219 total yards, while the Ravens gained 375 yards on 75 plays. Unfortunately for the Ravens, they led the turnover statistic as well.
Miller’s fumble paled in comparison to Schaub’s interceptions. The Dolphins did nothing on offense for more than 55 minutes, but scored twice within 20 seconds as a direct result of those plays on defense. If there was a bright spot, it was Miller’s 113 rushing yards on 20 carries.
Miami improves to 5-7 and welcomes the New York Giants to Sun Life Stadium next Monday Night.
