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The matchup between the Miami Dolphins and the Houston Texans on December 15, 2024 was a game full of defence, key plays and player performances that shaped the outcome.
In this article, I will walk you through the match player stats, highlight important moments, and help you understand what made the difference.
Match Overview
On December 15, 2024, the Texans beat the Dolphins 20 to 12.
The Dolphins scored 0 in the first, 6 in the second, 6 in the third, and 0 in the fourth. The Texans scored 3 in the first, 10 in the second, 7 in the third, and 0 in the fourth.
A big part of the story was that the Texans forced four turnovers from the Miami quarterback.
So the outcome was shaped not just by yards or big plays, but by key mistakes and how each team took advantage.
Key Player Stats for the Dolphins
Here are some of the important numbers from the Dolphins side.
Passing
- Tua Tagovailoa completed 29 of 40 attempts for 196 yards, threw 1 touchdown and 3 interceptions.
That interception count hurt the Dolphins because each one gives the opponent a chance. - A completion rate of 29 of 40 is decent, but the 3 picks are important.
Rushing
- De Von Achane had 12 rushing attempts for 41 yards with no touchdowns.
- Raheem Mostert carried 6 times for 8 yards with no touchdowns.
Rushing did not break open the game for Miami. The yardage was modest.
Receiving
- Mack Hollins caught 5 passes for 52 yards.
- Jaylen Waddle had 2 catches for 36 yards.
- Achane also had 7 receptions for 35 yards.
Overall the Dolphins offence moved the ball at times, but big plays and turnover issues made it harder.
Key Player Stats for the Texans
Some Texans players stepped up and helped seal the win.
Passing
- C. J. Stroud went 18 of 26 for 131 yards and threw 2 touchdowns with 0 interceptions.
This was a clean performance with smart play.
Rushing
- D. Ogunbowale had 1 rush for 35 yards.
- Joe Mixon ran 12 times for 23 yards.
The rushing numbers were not huge, but the Texans did not need big rush plays to control the game.
Receiving
- Nico Collins had 4 catches for 17 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Even with low yards the touchdowns were very important. - Joe Mixon had 5 catches for 33 yards.
- T. Dell had 2 catches for 26 yards.
The Texans made their receptions count when it mattered most.
Defensive and Turnover Impact
While the above focus is on offence, the defence and turnovers were the turning point of the game.
- The Dolphins quarterback threw 3 interceptions. That gave the Texans extra chances.
- The Texans forced four turnovers overall.
When a team turns over the ball that many times, it becomes very hard to win.
Special teams and field position also played a role. The Texans limited big plays and used their chances better.
Match Highlights and Turning Moments
- Early lead by Texans with a 44 yard field goal to make it 3 to 0 after the first quarter.
- In the second quarter the Dolphins got two field goals to get 6 points.
- Just before halftime the Texans scored again and made it 13 to 6.
- In the third quarter the Texans had a 9 play 70 yard drive ending with a 6 yard touchdown pass to Collins. That pushed them to 20 to 6.
- The Dolphins answered with a 7 yard touchdown pass but the extra point or conversion failed so they stayed at 12.
- No scoring happened in the fourth quarter and the Texans held on for the win.
The Texans built a lead and the Dolphins could not catch up.
What This Match Means and Lessons
- Turnovers win games. The Dolphins had decent yardage but turnovers cost them.
- Efficiency is more important than high yard numbers. The Texans used their chances better.
- Red zone success is important. Scoring close to the goal line is a big difference maker.
- Defence and special teams matter. They helped the Texans stay in control.
- Momentum can change quickly. The third quarter touchdown changed the flow of the game.
What to Watch For in Future Matchups
- Will the Dolphins reduce their turnover rate
- Can the Texans keep their receivers active in key moments
- How will rushing improve for both teams
- Can the Dolphins defence handle red zone pressure better
- Will second half coaching adjustments improve
Final Thoughts
This game between the Miami Dolphins and the Houston Texans is a good example of how statistics show more than raw yard numbers. The Texans had fewer yards in some areas but were cleaner and smarter in key moments. They took advantage of the Dolphins mistakes and used their chances well.
For the Dolphins the main lesson is to protect the ball and finish scoring drives. For the Texans the goal is to continue being efficient and strong on defence and special teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who was the standout receiver in this game
Nico Collins for the Texans with 2 touchdowns was very important for scoring. - How many turnovers did the Dolphins commit
The Dolphins quarterback had 3 interceptions and there were four turnovers in total. - What was the final score
Texans 20, Dolphins 12. - Which team had better rushing yards
Neither team dominated the rushing game. Miami had slightly higher yardage but not by a large amount. - How did the quarterbacks perform
Tua Tagovailoa had 196 yards with 1 touchdown and 3 interceptions. C. J. Stroud had 131 yards with 2 touchdowns and 0 interceptions. - Were there important defensive plays
Yes. Forced turnovers and good defensive pressure helped the Texans win. - How did the Dolphins rushing game look
Achane had 41 yards on 12 carries. Mostert had 8 yards on 6 carries. - How well did the Texans convert scoring chances
The Texans were efficient and scored two touchdowns when they reached good field position. - What is the general head to head trend between the teams
The Texans have more wins historically in their matchups with the Dolphins. - What can fans learn from this game
Fans can see that ball security and red zone success are more important than total yardage. Key moments decide the game.
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