The Miami Dolphins and the Los Angeles Rams have met many times in NFL history. One game that many fans still remember is the match from November 2020. It was a special game for the Dolphins because it showed how strong their defense and special teams could be. It was also the first start for rookie quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. The Rams were known for a strong passing offense and a powerful defense, so many people expected a tough fight. This game became very interesting because both teams had different strengths and played with a lot of energy.
This guide gives you a simple and clear look at the player stats and the key moments from that match. The goal is to help any reader, even someone new to football, understand how the game went and why it was special. The language here is easy to follow and friendly, so you can enjoy learning more about this famous matchup.
Match Overview
The Dolphins won the game with a score of 28 to 17. Even though the score looks close, the flow of the game felt very different. The Dolphins did not win because of a huge offensive show. Instead, they won because their defense and special teams made big plays at the right moments. The Rams gained many more yards than Miami. But football is not only about yards. It is about scoring and protecting the ball. The Dolphins did this better that day.
The game had four important parts. First was the strong defensive start by Miami. Second was Tua Tagovailoa making his first NFL start. Third was the Dolphins defense creating turnovers that changed the game. And last was the Rams trying to come back in the second half but falling short because Miami stayed calm and smart.
Miami Dolphins Player Stats and Highlights
Tua Tagovailoa
This was Tua Tagovailoa’s first NFL start. He finished with simple but safe numbers.
- 12 completions on 22 passes
- 93 passing yards
- 1 touchdown
- No interceptions
Even though his stats were not big, he made smart choices. He did not force dangerous throws. He showed calm energy on the field. His first touchdown pass came after a short field created by the defense. Many fans remember this game not because of high passing yards but because it showed that Tua could grow into a strong leader.
Dolphins Running Game
The Dolphins did not run the ball many times. Their ground game was slow because the Rams defense, led by star players, played very strong at the line.
- Myles Gaskin had the most touches but did not gain many yards.
Even so, the running game helped control the clock and open small chances for short passes.
Dolphins Wide Receivers
Miami receivers did not get many chances because the team did not throw much. Still, they did their job when needed.
- DeVante Parker caught key passes that helped Miami move the ball.
- Jakeem Grant helped more on special teams than in offense.
Dolphins Defense
The defense was the real star of the game. They made some of the biggest plays of the season.
Important defensive highlights:
- Two interceptions against Rams quarterback Jared Goff
- Two forced fumbles
- One fumble returned for a touchdown by Andrew Van Ginkel
The Dolphins defense is remembered for speed, quick reactions, and strong tackling. This game showed how pressure on the quarterback can change everything. They kept Goff under stress and created many mistakes.
Dolphins Special Teams
Special teams also made a huge play.
- Jakeem Grant returned a punt for a touchdown
This touchdown gave Miami more control and more confidence. Special teams often do not get much attention, but in this game they played a major part in the win.
Los Angeles Rams Player Stats and Highlights
Jared Goff
Rams quarterback Jared Goff had a very busy day. He threw many passes and gained many yards, but he also made mistakes that hurt his team.
- 35 completions on 61 passes
- 355 passing yards
- 1 touchdown
- 2 interceptions
- 2 lost fumbles
These numbers show a mix of strong effort and costly errors. The Dolphins defense was fast and created pressure, which made Goff throw risky passes.
Rams Running Game
The Rams used a mix of running backs, but the Dolphins defense held them to short gains most of the time.
- Darrell Henderson and Malcolm Brown shared carries but did not break many big plays.
Rams Receivers
The Rams receivers had a productive game in terms of yards.
- Robert Woods and Cooper Kupp both caught many passes.
Kupp had more than 100 receiving yards. Woods also added a rushing touchdown on a special trick play. These players helped keep the Rams close in the score even when things were going wrong.
Rams Defense
The Rams defense, led by star lineman Aaron Donald, made life difficult for Miami’s offense. They forced a fumble on Tua early in the game. They also limited Miami’s total yards. But they could not stop Miami’s defense and special teams from taking over.
Key Moments That Changed the Game
1. Early Turnovers
Two early turnovers by the Rams gave the Dolphins great field position. Miami scored fast and built a lead that helped them stay comfortable for the rest of the match.
2. Fumble Return Touchdown
When Andrew Van Ginkel recovered a fumble and ran it back for a touchdown, the whole stadium felt a shift in energy. This play made Miami believe they could win even if their offense stayed quiet.
3. Punt Return Touchdown
Jakeem Grant’s punt return was one of the most exciting moments of the game. It showed how special teams can change momentum in a few seconds.
4. Defensive Pressure
The Dolphins kept sending pressure at Goff. Even though he gained many yards, he could not avoid mistakes. This pressure made the Rams chase the score instead of controlling the game plan.
Why This Match Still Matters
This game is talked about because it shows how a team can win without huge offensive numbers. It teaches an important lesson. Football is a team sport. Defense, special teams, and smart play calling can win games even when the offense is still growing. For the Dolphins, this match was an example of a complete team victory. For the Rams, it was a reminder that ball security is very important.
Fans also remember this game because it was Tua Tagovailoa’s first start. People wanted to see how he would handle the pressure. While his yard numbers were small, his calm and steady play brought hope for the future.
Conclusion
The match between the Miami Dolphins and the Los Angeles Rams was a strong example of how a team can win with discipline, teamwork, and smart play. The Dolphins did not need big offensive numbers to take control of the game. Their defense and special teams made the key plays that changed the score and the energy on the field. Tua Tagovailoa also showed calm leadership in his first start, which gave hope for the future.
The Rams played hard and gained many yards, but their turnovers made it difficult for them to stay in front. This game teaches an important lesson. In football, it is not only about yards or long drives. It is about taking chances, protecting the ball, and staying focused in important moments.
This match is still remembered because it shows how one team can win by using every part of the game. It also shows how young players can grow, how defenses can decide a match, and how special teams can change the score in one fast play. It was a game full of action and learning, and fans from both sides still talk about it today.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who won the Dolphins vs Rams game in 2020
The Dolphins won with a score of 28 to 17.
2. Did Tua Tagovailoa play well in his first start
He played safe and smart. His numbers were small but he made no big mistakes.
3. How many yards did Jared Goff throw
He threw for 355 yards.
4. Who scored a defensive touchdown for Miami
Andrew Van Ginkel scored after a fumble return.
5. Did the Rams outgain the Dolphins in total yards
Yes, the Rams gained many more yards but still lost.
6. Who returned the punt for a Dolphins touchdown
Jakeem Grant scored the punt return touchdown.
7. Why did the Dolphins defense play so well
They used fast pressure and forced turnovers.
8. Did the Dolphins run the ball well
No, the run game was limited but still helped control the clock.
9. Who were the top Rams receivers
Cooper Kupp and Robert Woods had strong games.
10. Why is this game remembered today
It showed strong Dolphins defense and marked Tua’s first start.
Related Topic
Colts vs Vikings: Simple Guide to Player Stats and Game Highlights
India vs New Zealand Cricket Timeline: A Simple Guide to Their Biggest Matches
