Miami Dolphins vs Los Angeles Rams Match Player Stats
Let’s be honest, when the Miami Dolphins faced off against the Los Angeles Rams, few expected a 23–15 game to tell such a detailed and statistically rich story. But as any seasoned NFL fan knows, it’s not just about the final score. It’s about the subtle shifts in momentum, the breakdowns in the red zone, the unexpected standout performances, and yes, the mistakes that can cost a team a win.
So, what really happened on that November night at SoFi Stadium? Let’s break it down, drive by drive, stat by stat, and maybe even a little snark.
How Did the Game Play Out Quarter by Quarter?
The Dolphins came into this matchup with a 3–6 record and not much to brag about, especially on the road. The Rams, meanwhile, were 4–5 and hoping to get back to .500 with another home victory. What ensued was a low-scoring, mistake-filled game that was as intriguing statistically as it was competitively.
Here’s how the quarters unfolded:
| Quarter | Miami Dolphins | Los Angeles Rams |
|---|---|---|
| Q1 | 7 | 0 |
| Q2 | 3 | 6 |
| Q3 | 7 | 0 |
| Q4 | 6 | 9 |
| Total | 23 | 15 |
The Dolphins struck first, and even though the Rams attempted a late-game rally, Miami’s discipline and red-zone execution kept them in control. Not a high-octane offensive clinic, but certainly a chess match between two sides trying to prove something mid-season.
Why Did the Rams Outgain the Dolphins but Still Lose?
This is one of those games where the stat sheet and the scoreboard didn’t quite align. The Los Angeles Rams actually gained 327 total yards, compared to Miami’s modest 238. So, why didn’t they win?
Let’s take a look:
| Stat Category | Dolphins | Rams |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | 238 | 327 |
| Turnovers | 2 | 2 |
| First Downs | 15 | 20 |
| Penalty Yards | 15 | 64 |
| 3rd Down Conversions | 6/13 | 3/12 |
| Red Zone Conversions | 2/3 | 0/3 |
| Possession Time | 29:48 | 30:12 |
Statistically speaking, the Rams did a lot right, more yards, more first downs, and even a hair more time with the ball. But they couldn’t punch it in when it mattered. Zero red zone success and sloppy penalties were the backbreakers. Think of it like baking a perfect cake and forgetting the sugar.
Who Were the Key Performers in the Game?
This game wasn’t about MVP-worthy explosions. It was about gritty, calculated plays and unsung heroes who didn’t light up the scoreboard but moved the chains and got the job done.
Quarterback Comparison
| Player | Comp/Att | Yards | TDs | INTs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tua Tagovailoa | 20/28 | 207 | 1 | 1 |
| Matthew Stafford | 32/46 | 293 | 0 | 1 |
Tua didn’t out-throw Stafford, but he certainly outplayed him in terms of impact. One touchdown, one interception, and most importantly, the W. Stafford’s stat sheet looks nice until you realise he couldn’t convert his yardage into touchdowns.
Top Skill Players
| Stat | Dolphins | Rams |
|---|---|---|
| Rushing Leader | De’Von Achane – 37 yds | Kyren Williams – 62 yds |
| Receiving Leader | Jaylen Waddle – 57 yds | Puka Nacua – 98 yds |
Puka Nacua was electric, pulling in 9 catches for nearly 100 yards, but the Rams just couldn’t turn his performance into points. Waddle, with just 3 receptions, made his touches count when they needed him.
How Did the Defences Shape the Outcome?
Defensively, this game was a quiet war. No team dominated, but both made life difficult for the opposing offence in key moments. The real story was in the red zone, where the Dolphins stood tall and the Rams flopped.
Defensive Highlights
- Calais Campbell recorded a sack for Miami, reminding everyone he’s still got it.
- Kobie Turner returned the favour for the Rams, though it wasn’t enough to shift momentum.
- Jordyn Brooks, Miami’s linebacker, led all tacklers with 11, he was everywhere.
- Omar Speights kept the Rams in it with 8 tackles, but the Dolphins’ defence just made more crucial stops.
Two turnovers apiece meant both teams had moments of sloppiness, but Miami’s defence executed better when backed against the wall.
What Was the Bigger Picture for Both Teams?
Here’s where things get even more interesting. With this win, the Dolphins moved to 4–6, closing the gap in the AFC East. The Rams dropped to the same record, which hurts more because it was a home game, and they’re now 3–3 at SoFi.
More importantly, this game continued Miami’s dominance in the head-to-head rivalry. Historically, they’ve owned the Rams. And not just recently, this goes back decades.
All-Time Record
| Category | Dolphins | Rams |
|---|---|---|
| Total Meetings | 15 | 15 |
| Wins | 13 | 2 |
| Points Scored | 370 | 260 |
| Last 5 Games | 5 Wins | 0 Wins |
If the Rams are the polite guests, the Dolphins are the hosts who keep winning the board game night.
How Does the Head-to-Head Data Stack Up?
The numbers don’t lie. Whether it’s passing, rushing, or even punting (yes, punting!), Miami holds the upper hand historically. Here’s a quick peek at the long-term trend.
Passing Totals (Head-to-Head – 1971–2024)
| Team | Completions | Yards | TD | INT |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MIA | 272 | 2,873 | 28 | 12 |
| LAR | 333 | 3,697 | 16 | 19 |
Rushing Totals (Head-to-Head)
| Team | Attempts | Yards | Yards/Attempt | TD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MIA | 438 | 1,851 | 4.2 | 14 |
| LAR | 378 | 1,674 | 4.4 | 11 |
Interestingly, the Rams average slightly more yards per rush, but Miami finds the end zone more often. That’s the theme of this matchup in a nutshell, the Dolphins finish what the Rams start.
What’s Next for the Dolphins and Rams?
With identical 4–6 records, both teams still technically have a shot at the postseason, though they’ll need strong finishes and a bit of luck. Miami’s road form is improving, now at 2–3 away, and this win may be the spark they need heading into December.
For the Rams, the alarm bells are ringing. Their red zone woes need fixing, and fast. There’s also the discipline factor, 64 penalty yards at home isn’t going to get you to the playoffs.
If you’re a Dolphins fan, you’re cautiously optimistic. If you’re a Rams fan, you’re probably frustrated and questioning everything from play-calling to clock management.
FAQs
How did Miami manage to win with fewer total yards?
Efficiency. Miami scored on two of their three red zone trips, while the Rams went 0-for-3. Yardage is nice, but touchdowns win games.
Was Matthew Stafford’s performance the problem?
Not entirely. Stafford threw for 293 yards but failed to produce a single touchdown. His interception late in the game didn’t help, either.
How has Miami historically performed against the Rams?
Dominant would be an understatement. With 13 wins in 15 meetings, Miami has been the Rams’ regular-season nightmare.
Which defensive player stood out the most?
Jordyn Brooks led all tacklers and helped Miami shut down key drives. He was a major factor in limiting the Rams’ red zone chances.
Did either team break any records?
No records broken, but Miami’s continued streak over the Rams adds another chapter to an already lopsided rivalry.
What can the Rams fix before the next game?
Plenty. Red zone play-calling, discipline, and finishing drives are all top priorities if they want to salvage the season.
Are the playoffs still realistic?
Mathematically, yes. Realistically, both teams need to go on a hot streak and hope a few rivals falter down the stretch.
