Follow usThis was the moment Jason Sanders had anticipated throughout the season. As a member of the Miami Dolphins, a team renowned for scoring more touchdowns than any other in the NFL, the former All-Pro kicker found himself with fewer field goal attempts due to their prolific offense.
Facing the Dallas Cowboys on Sunday, Sanders, with only 21 field goal attempts all season, became a crucial asset in a pivotal game for Miami. His powerful right leg came into play, and he didn’t disappoint. As time expired, Sanders nailed his fifth field goal of the day—a 29-yarder—securing a 22-20 victory for the Dolphins and, more importantly, a coveted playoff berth.
Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa played a significant role in the victory, throwing for 293 yards and a touchdown. The AFC East-leading Dolphins, with an 11-4 record, triumphed against a team with a winning record for the first time in the season. The decisive drive, covering 64 yards and consuming the final 3:27 of the game, featured crucial connections between Tagovailoa and Tyreek Hill, who returned to action with a stellar performance after missing the previous week due to an ankle injury.
Hill, leading the NFL in receiving yards, contributed nine catches for 99 yards. Despite Miami boasting the league’s top passing and scoring offense, a top-five rushing attack, and a rising defense, their victories before Week 16 had come against teams with a .500 or worse record. The win against the Cowboys marked a significant milestone for the Dolphins as they continued their pursuit of postseason success.
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