The Miami Dolphins faced the San Francisco 49ers on December 22, 2024, at Hard Rock Stadium, with both teams clinging to slim playoff hopes. Entering the match with matching 6-8 records, the stakes were monumental; the loser would be officially eliminated from playoff contention. The Dolphins, coming off a disappointing 20-12 loss to the Houston Texans, were determined to turn their season around as they hosted the reigning NFC champions.
Recent injuries weighed heavily on both rosters. Star wide receiver Jaylen Waddle was ruled out due to knee issues, leaving Tua Tagovailoa to rely more heavily on Tyreek Hill, who had been dealing with his own injury concerns. On the other side, the 49ers were buoyed by the return of defensive lynchpins Nick Bosa and Dre Greenlaw, providing much-needed reinforcements on what had been unnerving defensive performances.
Kickoff was scheduled for 4:25 PM ET, with the 49ers entering as 1.5-point favorites amid concerning win-loss records. During the week leading up to the match, various experts leaned favorably toward the 49ers, with predictions ranging from 24-20 to 30-27. USA Today's predictions tilted slightly toward the Dolphins securing victory, but overall sentiment pointed to San Francisco as likely victors.
Right from the outset, the 49ers struck first after Brock Purdy managed to set up Jake Moody for a 21-yard field goal, putting them on the board early. Tagovailoa responded by leading his team downfield, completing impressive passes but struggling to finish drives efficiently. His throws to River Cracraft and Jonnu Smith showcased the Dolphins' potential but faltered against the fierce 49ers defense.
By the end of the first quarter, the 49ers had led the score, capitalizing on key mistakes from Miami. San Francisco's defense demonstrated their prowess, making Tagovailoa uncomfortable with consistent pressure. Observers noted, "Success for the 49ers hinges on their ability to make Tua Tagovailoa uncomfortable in the pocket. If they do, he'll fold." This prediction rang true as Miami's offense showed vulnerability against aggressive defense.
Throughout the game, Miami struggled to find offensive consistency. A second field goal from Jason Sanders provided some glimmer of hope, reducing the deficit but failing to keep pace with the 49ers' scoring drives. The Dolphins' rushing game also faltered; without Waddle’s explosive speed, traditional strategies became easier for the 49ers to predict and counter.
The second quarter saw rising tensions as both teams traded possessions, but Miami's continued inability to capitalize on opportunities drew concern. Analysis came from the booth, commenting, “Both teams are clinging to slim chances of making the playoffs,” which encapsulated the atmosphere as teams strove against mistakes. The 49ers' ability to connect plays became increasingly evident, as Purdy found his rhythm with YAC threats like Deebo Samuel and George Kittle.
Late-game adjustments proved futile for Miami, as they fell behind. Each stopped drive mounted pressure on Tagovailoa, compounded by the 49ers' defensive intelligence. The match culminated with the 49ers taking advantage of each misstep and missed opportunities of Miami. “Expect the Dolphins offense to lay an egg for the second week in a row,” analysts noted beforehand, and the reality played out much as predicted.
Following the culmination of this clash, one thing became apparent: both franchises faced uncertain futures. With the playoff narrative washed away, the 49ers achieved victory on the scoreboard, but the overall goal of postseason play began to fade for both teams as their season approaches closure. The final tally reflected the struggle at Hard Rock Stadium, as the Dolphins were left contemplating their next moves with 2025 looming on the horizon.
