Miami Dolphins’ Tua Tagovailoa Takes Blame for Loss, Coach Mike McDaniel Faces Growing Criticism

The Miami Dolphins’ 31-6 loss to the Cleveland Browns on Sunday wasn’t just another defeat for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. The three-time Pro Bowl quarterback was benched in the fourth quarter after throwing three interceptions, and he took full responsibility for the team’s struggles.

“Definitely not happy, not proud of where I’m at with my play, with how I’ve gone about things this year,” Tagovailoa said after the game. “I know I’ve gotta be a lot better — and I’ve been better for the Miami Dolphins in years past. But this isn’t years past, this is this year.”

Tagovailoa’s struggles were evident, finishing the game with a career-low 24.1 passer rating. He averaged just 4.3 yards per attempt and was sacked twice. Coach Mike McDaniel benched him for rookie Quinn Ewers with 8:16 left in the contest.

Tagovailoa’s Stats:

• Completions: 12-of-23
• Yards: 100
• Interceptions: 3
• Sacks: 2
• Passer Rating: 24.1

Despite the loss, Tagovailoa’s teammates seem to support him. However, the same can’t be said for the team’s coach, Mike McDaniel, who is facing growing criticism after the Dolphins’ worst start since 2021. McDaniel pointed to the team’s mistakes, saying they “did everything to lose the game.” The team committed 11 penalties, the most since 2022, and four turnovers, which ultimately led to their downfall.

“All options are on the table” isn’t a phrase McDaniel used when discussing the quarterback position, but the heat is on. When asked about his job security, McDaniel emphasized his focus on doing his job. “You have a job, you do your job and you do it to the best of your ability,” he said. “That’s where my concern lies. I think it’s offensive to all parties involved if I’m spending that precious time thinking about myself.”

Upcoming Games:

• October 26: Miami Dolphins vs. Atlanta Falcons
• October 30: Baltimore Ravens vs. Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins’ next game is against the Atlanta Falcons on October 26. Given their current record, they’ll need a significant improvement to turn their season around. With Tagovailoa’s struggles and McDaniel’s growing criticism, the team’s performance will be closely watched in the coming weeks.

Conclusion

The Miami Dolphins’ loss to the Cleveland Browns has put coach Mike McDaniel and quarterback Tua Tagovailoa under scrutiny. Tagovailoa’s three interceptions led to his benching, and the team’s 11 penalties and four turnovers ultimately cost them the game. Despite the criticism, McDaniel remains focused on his job, and Tagovailoa has taken full responsibility for his performance. The Dolphins will need to regroup and make adjustments if they want to turn their season around.

FAQs

Q: Why was Tua Tagovailoa benched?

A: Tua Tagovailoa was benched after throwing three interceptions and struggling throughout the game.

Q: What was the final score of the game?

A: The Cleveland Browns won 31-6 against the Miami Dolphins.

Q: How many penalties did the Dolphins commit?

A: The Dolphins committed 11 penalties, the most since 2022.

Q: What did Mike McDaniel say about his job security?

A: Mike McDaniel emphasized his focus on doing his job and dismissed concerns about his job security.

Q: When is the Dolphins’ next game?

A: The Dolphins’ next game is against the Atlanta Falcons on October 26.