By Nunnie Robinson, Westside Gazette Sports Editor
In a prime time NFL Monday night football, game, the Miami Dolphins traveled to the other coast, So-Fi Stadium, Englewood, California, home of the Los Angeles Rams, took control of the game early and defeated the Rams 23-15, a victory that reshaped the team’s outlook on the second half of the season. By virtue of a fast start offensively and an inspired defensive effort, the Fins played arguably their best game.
The Fins scored in the first quarter on an 18 yard reverse sweep by Malik Washington to take a 7-0 lead. Later in the second quarter, the Dolphins extended the lead to 10-0 by virtue of a 50 yard field goal by Jason Sanders. Tua Tagovailoa again put fear in the Dolphins fateful when, after throwing an interception, attempted to tackle the Rams defender head first near sideline. Fortunately, a knee to Tua’s head proved inconsequential. Tua did say that tackling the player head first was not his intention.
The Dolphins defense, led by Calais Campbell, Zack Sieler and Jalen Ramsey played tenacious, inspired football, holding the Rams offense to field goals of 34 and 55 yards. The first half ended with the Dolphins leading 10-6.
In the second half with 5:32 remaining, Miami extended their lead to 17-6 on 1 yard pass from Tua to Tyreek Hill which was set up an amazing catch and run by tight end Jonnu Smith. Although the Rams ran more offensive plays, Anthony Weaver’s vaunted defense kept them out of the end zone, maintaining a 17-6 lead at the end of the third quarter.
At the beginning of the fourth quarter, the Rams closed the gap to 17-9, scoring on a 53 yard field goal by placekicker Karty. However, the Fins countered with a 37 yard field goal by Jason Sanders with approximately 9:00 minutes remaining. Can you envision a developing kicking theme?
