Instant takeaways from the Miami Dolphins' loss to the Kansas City Chiefs.
The Miami Dolphins came into Week 3 as a big underdog, but the team looked very different from what it had been in the first two games.
After a quick touchdown from the Kansas City Chiefs, Miami began to clamp down defensively and continued to move the chains on offense.
Here are the takeaways from the Dolphins' loss to the Chiefs.
Dolphins Fall Victim to Depth
The Dolphins were already facing an issue in the backfield, as backup running back Jaylen Wright had been ruled out due to a foot injury.
Just five carries into the game, De'Von Achane suffered a knee injury and was taken out of the game. He was not able to return, leaving the team with Ollie Gordon II as the only healthy back.
Miami then utilized Malik Washington as the emergency running back alongside Gordon. Gordon also suffered cramping and had to exit for a brief period.
Defense Mostly Tightens Down
After the initial touchdown, it appeared that the Dolphins' defense would face another game where they would be beaten down. However, that was not the case.
Miami continued to play good football and kept the Chiefs mostly scoreless in the second half. Chop Robinson finally got through to Mahomes, but the tackle was flagged for roughing the passer.
Zeek Biggers and Jordyn Brooks also joined for a sack on Mahomes early on, but it was called back due to a penalty.
Rookie Jacob Rodriguez also pulled off a huge interception as he ran in and dove for a tipped ball.
After the Dolphins surrendered plenty of points to their first two opponents, they played well against a strong Chiefs offense that was expected to run the score up.
It took Kansas City a long time to get points again, which was towards the end of the fourth quarter.
Chris Bell Shows Promise
Rookie receiver Chris Bell showed some big play capabilities, as he picked up 67 yards on four receptions. One of which was a 44-yard catch and run.
Bell showed exactly why the Dolphins took a chance on drafting him, despite his season-ending ACL tear. The rookie pass catcher has continued to elevate his game each week, and there is a lot of promise in his game.
Jeff Hafley's Culture Continues to Show
Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley has spoken plenty about the team showing toughness and grit, and a never-give-up kind of attitude, and that was shown plenty. Despite facing an opponent that was expected to beat them handily, the team continued to play tough football.
It will still take some time for things to truly click, but the Dolphins are starting to show promise each week. A few missed plays and some objectively tough calls could have swayed this game the other way.
This Miami team could easily fold, but they continue to fight through every play. Once they get more roster talent, they could be a dangerous team.
