The Miami Dolphins did their best to stop the NFL's stop offense in the Detroit Lions, but it was simply not enough. Defensively, things were going the Dolphins' way until they could not stop Jared Goff and company.

Again, this was a game where the Dolphins were expected to get blown out, but that wasn't the case. Miami fought hard but ultimately fell.

Here are the instant takeaways from the Dolphins losing 19-9 in Week 9.

Malik Willis appeared on the injury report with a groin ailment, and that was evidently impacting his ability to run the ball. Multiple times, the quarterback evaded pressure, but he was moving slowly each time.

The offensive line did a good enough job, but they finally began to be overwhelmed, and Willis could not get away fast enough due to being limited by his groin.

The Dolphins needed to play mistake-free football to ensure they could get past the top offense in the league. That was nowhere near the case.

Miami had five penalties before the half, and tacked on another six to end the day. With 11 penalties and 87 penalty yards, they continually shot themselves in the foot with drive-stalling mistakes. 

Head coach Jeff Hafley needs to continue to preach process and discipline, or this team will never beat better opponents.

Miami has a strong defense, and that was on full display against the Lions. The unit eventually wilted late in the third quarter, but they were able to hold the Lions to four field goals and one touchdown.

Linebacker Jordyn Brooks nearly had a defensive touchdown, but it was overturned because Goff showed his arm was coming forward on a passing play. However, rookie cornerback Chris Johnson got his first interception in the NFL on another defensive play where Chop Robinson got after the Lions' passer.

Once the offense takes the next step, this Dolphins team could be very scary.

Rookie wide receiver Caleb Douglas shows what this Miami offense can eventually be. His ability to make highlight plays and extend drives is impressive to watch.

Douglas picked up 70 yards through the air and is the right kind of force that will benefit the Dolphins down the line. 

Once the offense finds a way to get the rest of the pass catchers involved in a meaningful manner, this can open another level for Douglas and company.

After being one of the worst pass rush units in the NFL, the Dolphins have been figuring out a way to get after quarterbacks.

The defense now has eight sacks over the last three games. Chop Robinson and Josh Uche are working well together, and that continues to show on the field.