The Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats have a storied history in the NFL, with their matchups often delivering exciting moments and standout performances. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just love football stats, diving into the player performances from their latest clash on December 29, 2024, offers a thrilling look at how these teams battled it out. In this article, we’ll break down the key player stats, highlight top performers, and analyze what made this game a must-watch. Our goal is to keep things clear, engaging, and easy to follow for fans of all ages. Let’s get started with the numbers that defined the Dolphins’ 20-3 victory over the Browns!
Game Overview: Dolphins Dominate in a Low-Scoring Affair
The Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats at Huntington Bank Field in Cleveland, Ohio, in a Week 17 matchup that had playoff implications for Miami. With a final score of 20-3, the Dolphins kept their postseason hopes alive, while the Browns struggled to find offensive rhythm. The game, played on December 29, 2024, saw Miami’s backup quarterback Tyler Huntley step up in the absence of Tua Tagovailoa, while Cleveland’s Dorian Thompson-Robinson faced challenges against a stout Dolphins defense. Both teams showed grit, but Miami’s efficiency and timely plays made the difference.
Let’s dive into the stats, focusing on the players who shaped the outcome. We’ll cover quarterbacks, running backs, receivers, and defensive standouts, with a table summarizing the key numbers for easy reference.
Quarterback Performances: Huntley Shines, Thompson-Robinson Struggles
Tyler Huntley (Miami Dolphins)
With Tua Tagovailoa sidelined due to a hip injury, Tyler Huntley took the reins for Miami. The 26-year-old, who spent the 2024 preseason with the Browns before joining the Dolphins, proved he could handle the pressure. Huntley completed 22 of his 26 passes for 225 yards, throwing one touchdown and avoiding any turnovers. His 115.5 passer rating was a testament to his precision and decision-making. Huntley also added 53 rushing yards on six carries, including a touchdown that helped seal the game. His ability to extend plays with his legs and connect with receivers like Jonnu Smith kept Miami’s offense moving smoothly.
Dorian Thompson-Robinson (Cleveland Browns)
On the other side, Cleveland’s second-year quarterback Dorian Thompson-Robinson had a tough day. Starting his second consecutive game, he completed just 18 of 34 passes for 170 yards, with no touchdowns and two costly turnovers (one interception and one fumble). His struggles in the red zone and inability to sustain long drives limited the Browns to just three points, courtesy of a field goal. Thompson-Robinson’s performance reflected the Browns’ broader offensive woes, as penalties and negative plays derailed their momentum.
Running Backs: Ground Game Contributions
De’Von Achane (Miami Dolphins)
Miami’s De’Von Achane was a key factor in the ground game, though his stats were modest compared to his explosive Week 16 performance. Achane rushed for 65 yards on 12 carries, averaging 5.4 yards per carry. He also added 30 receiving yards on three catches, showcasing his versatility as a dual-threat back. His ability to break tackles and gain positive yards helped Miami control the clock, finishing with 30:41 in time of possession.
Jerome Ford (Cleveland Browns)
For the Browns, Jerome Ford was a bright spot in an otherwise stagnant offense. Ford carried the ball 10 times for 45 yards, averaging 4.5 yards per carry. He also caught two passes for 15 yards. While Ford showed bursts of speed, the Browns’ inability to sustain drives limited his opportunities. Cleveland’s offense managed just 276 total yards, with Ford being one of the few consistent contributors.
Wide Receivers and Tight Ends: Who Made the Plays?
Tyreek Hill (Miami Dolphins)
Despite being listed as questionable with a wrist injury, Tyreek Hill played and delivered for Miami. He caught five passes for 70 yards, stretching the Browns’ secondary with his speed and creating openings for teammates. Hill’s presence forced Cleveland’s defense to adjust, opening up opportunities for other receivers and the run game.
Jonnu Smith (Miami Dolphins)
Tight end Jonnu Smith was Huntley’s go-to target, especially in clutch moments. Smith hauled in six receptions for 75 yards, including a critical 7-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter that extended Miami’s lead to 13-3. His reliable hands and ability to find soft spots in the Browns’ zone coverage were pivotal.
Jerry Jeudy (Cleveland Browns)
Cleveland’s Jerry Jeudy led the Browns’ receiving corps with seven catches for 95 yards, including a highlight-reel 17-yard sliding grab. Despite his efforts, Jeudy couldn’t find the end zone, and the Browns’ offense stalled in key moments. His 1,072 receiving yards on the season (eighth in the NFL) highlight his importance to Cleveland’s passing game, but he needed more support to turn the tide.
Defensive Standouts: Making the Difference
Myles Garrett (Cleveland Browns)
On defense, Myles Garrett celebrated his 29th birthday with a dominant performance. The reigning NFL Defensive Player of the Year recorded two sacks, bringing his season total to 14. Garrett became the first player in NFL history to record 14-plus sacks in four consecutive seasons. His third-quarter sack on Huntley, where he fought through a double team, showcased his elite athleticism. Despite the Browns’ loss, Garrett’s disruption kept Miami’s offense in check for much of the game.
Jalen Ramsey (Miami Dolphins)
Miami’s defense was anchored by cornerback Jalen Ramsey, who made a game-changing play by breaking up a fourth-and-goal pass intended for Jerry Jeudy in the end zone. Ramsey’s coverage limited Cleveland’s passing attack, holding them to an 18% third-down conversion rate (2 of 11). His leadership and physicality set the tone for Miami’s defensive effort.
Xavien Howard (Miami Dolphins)
Cornerback Xavien Howard also played a crucial role, limiting Cleveland’s deep-ball opportunities. His coverage skills helped Miami’s defense register three sacks and seven quarterback hits on Thompson-Robinson, disrupting the Browns’ rhythm.
Special Teams: Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats
Jason Sanders (Miami Dolphins)
Miami’s kicker Jason Sanders was nearly perfect, making field goals of 54 and 39 yards. His 54-yarder, which bounced off the crossbar but went through, extended his franchise-record streak to 25 consecutive made field goals. Sanders’ reliability provided crucial points in a low-scoring game.
Dustin Hopkins (Cleveland Browns)
For the Browns, Dustin Hopkins redeemed a recent slump by nailing a 25-yard field goal in the second quarter, tying the game at 3-3. However, Cleveland’s inability to reach scoring position limited his opportunities. Hopkins’ make was a small victory in an otherwise challenging day for the Browns’ special teams.
Key Team : A Snapshot Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats
Here’s a quick look at the team stats that shaped the game:
- Total Yards: Dolphins 280, Browns 276
- Turnovers: Dolphins 0, Browns 2
- First Downs: Both teams had 18
- Time of Possession: Dolphins 30:41, Browns 29:19
- Third-Down Conversions: Dolphins 2/10 (20%), Browns 2/11 (18%)
Both teams struggled to convert on third downs, but Miami’s zero turnovers and timely scoring plays gave them the edge. The Browns’ four turnovers on downs, combined with Thompson-Robinson’s interception and fumble, were costly.
Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats Table: Quick Reference
| Player | Team | Position | Stats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tyler Huntley | Dolphins | QB | 22/26, 225 yards, 1 TD, 0 INT, 115.5 passer rating; 6 rushes, 53 yards, 1 TD |
| Dorian Thompson-Robinson | Browns | QB | 18/34, 170 yards, 0 TD, 1 INT, 1 fumble lost |
| De’Von Achane | Dolphins | RB | 12 rushes, 65 yards, 5.4 YPC; 3 receptions, 30 yards |
| Jerome Ford | Browns | RB | 10 rushes, 45 yards, 4.5 YPC; 2 receptions, 15 yards |
| Tyreek Hill | Dolphins | WR | 5 receptions, 70 yards |
| Jonnu Smith | Dolphins | TE | 6 receptions, 75 yards, 1 TD |
| Jerry Jeudy | Browns | WR | 7 receptions, 95 yards |
| Myles Garrett | Browns | DE | 2 sacks, 4 tackles |
| Jalen Ramsey | Dolphins | CB | 1 pass breakup, 3 tackles |
| Xavien Howard | Dolphins | CB | 2 tackles, 1 pass defended |
| Jason Sanders | Dolphins | K | 2/2 FG (54, 39 yards), 2/2 XP |
| Dustin Hopkins | Browns | K | 1/1 FG (25 yards), 0/0 XP |
What Made the Difference Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats?
Miami’s Efficiency
The Dolphins won this game by playing clean football. Huntley’s turnover-free performance and Miami’s ability to capitalize on short fields (like the 18-second touchdown drive after a Browns turnover on downs) kept them in control. Their defense, led by Ramsey and Howard, shut down Cleveland’s passing game and pressured Thompson-Robinson into mistakes.
Cleveland’s Offensive Struggles
The Browns’ offense couldn). ’t find its groove, with Thompson-Robinson’s turnovers and four failed fourth-down attempts proving costly. Despite Garrett’s heroics on defense, Cleveland couldn’t overcome their own mistakes. The absence of key players like tight end David Njoku (knee) and wide receiver Cedric Tillman (concussion) further limited their options.
Historical Context: Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats Rivalry
The Dolphins lead the all-time series against the Browns 11-9, with this latest win adding to their edge. Past games have featured high-scoring affairs, like Miami’s 39-17 rout in 2022, where Tua Tagovailoa threw for 310 yards and three touchdowns. While the 2024 matchup was lower-scoring, it highlighted the Dolphins’ ability to adapt without their starting quarterback and the Browns’ ongoing search for offensive consistency.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Implications and Beyond Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats
For Miami, the win improved their record to 8-8, keeping their playoff hopes alive heading into Week 18 against the New York Jets. They’ll need a win and some help (like a Denver Broncos loss to Kansas City) to secure a wild-card spot. Huntley’s performance showed he’s a capable backup, but Tagovailoa’s status remains uncertain.
For Cleveland, the loss dropped them to 3-13, cementing a disappointing season. With their draft position improving for 2025, the Browns may focus on finding a long-term quarterback solution. Players like Garrett and Jeudy remain bright spots, but the team needs to address offensive inconsistencies.
Why These Miami Dolphins vs Cleveland Browns Match Player Stats Matter
Player stats tell the story of the game beyond the final score. Huntley’s efficiency and dual-threat ability kept Miami in control, while Thompson-Robinson’s struggles highlighted Cleveland’s challenges. Standout performances from Hill, Smith, and Garrett showed why individual brilliance matters, even in a team sport. For fans, these numbers offer insight into what worked, what didn’t, and what to watch for in future games.
Final Thoughts
The Miami Dolphins’ 20-3 win over the Cleveland Browns on December 29, 2024, was a tale of execution versus missed opportunities. Tyler Huntley’s steady hand, paired with a strong defensive effort from Jalen Ramsey and Xavien Howard, powered Miami to victory. Meanwhile, Myles Garrett’s dominance couldn’t overcome Cleveland’s offensive struggles, led by a shaky performance from Dorian Thompson-Robinson. Whether you’re a stats nerd or just love football, this game offered plenty to dissect.