Dolphins Survive Saints' Wild Comeback Bid 21-17

Heart-Stopping Finish at Hard Rock Stadium

The Miami Dolphins (5-7) withstood a furious late surge from the New Orleans Saints (2-10) in a 21-17 thriller on Sunday, November 30th. The Saints mounted an improbable comeback fueled by rookie kicker Charlie Smyth's perfect onside kick and Tyler Shough's heroics, but ultimately fell short in a game that defined NFL Week 13's unpredictability.

Dolphins Build Lead, Seek Reinforcements

Coming off a bye week and international trip, Miami looked to extend its three-of-last-four winning streak. Key reinforcements loomed with tackle Austin Jackson and tight end Darren Waller nearing returns after activating their practice windows. Head Coach Mike McDaniel expressed confidence in their progress, noting how their additions could bolster the team's recent "smashmouth" identity—which has seen them rush for 594 yards over their last four games. Center Aaron Brewer continued his All-Pro caliber season, anchoring an offense that consistently moved the ball.

Saints Without Kamara, Red Woes Continue

Without star running back Alvin Kamara (knee injury), the Saints' offensive struggles persisted. Their 24-10 loss to Atlanta the previous week highlighted a critical issue: four drives inside the 20-yard line produced zero touchdowns. Miami's defense capitalized, forcing three field goals (39, 25, and 48 yards) while containing Dolphins running back De'Von Achane's early 29-yard touchdown. Safety Kool-Aid McKinstry's end-zone interception of Tua Tagovailoa kept the Saints within striking distance.

Late-Game Drama Unfolds

The second half belonged to New Orleans. Tyler Shough (239 passing yards, 2 TDs) connected with Chris Olave for a 17-yard touchdown, then converted a two-point run. After Smyth nailed a 56-yard field goal (his first NFL make), the Saints trailed 21-17 with 3:03 left. Smyth then executed a flawless onside kick, recovered by Devaughn Vele, igniting hope. Shough found Vele for a 15-yard touchdown, but the two-point attempt was intercepted by Minkah Fitzpatrick, returned for a "pick two." Facing fourth-and-1 from midfield, Shough's sneak was stuffed by linebacker Danny Stutsman, sealing the Dolphins' victory.

"That was a low moment for Shough, who finished the day with 239 yards passing and two touchdowns but committed two turnovers."

What's Next?

The Dolphins travel to face the 2-9 Jets, aiming to build on their recent momentum. The Saints (2-10) face a critical offseason evaluation, with Shough's development and offensive consistency under scrutiny.