Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Miami Dolphins Match Player Stats
The tampa bay buccaneers vs miami dolphins match player stats reveal how Miami secured a narrow 20-17 victory over Tampa Bay in an important Week 17 NFL matchup on December 28, 2025. Played at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, Florida, the contest featured two productive passing performances, an explosive rushing display from De’Von Achane, and several defensive plays that ultimately influenced the result.
Baker Mayfield delivered 346 passing yards and two touchdowns for Tampa Bay, but his two interceptions and a lost fumble proved costly. On the other side, rookie quarterback Quinn Ewers completed 14 of 22 passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns without throwing an interception. Miami also received valuable contributions from Achane, Jaylen Wright, Theo Wease Jr., and Greg Dulcich.
Although Tampa Bay generated more total offensive yards, Miami made better use of its opportunities. The Dolphins combined an effective rushing attack with timely defensive takeaways and reliable kicking to protect their lead. Their 20-17 victory demonstrated that offensive production alone does not determine the outcome of an NFL game.
This breakdown examines the final score, quarterback performances, rushing and receiving statistics, defensive contributions, special teams, individual player performances, and the most important lessons from the matchup.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Miami Dolphins Match Overview
The December 28 meeting was a Week 17 regular-season contest between two teams entering the final stages of the 2025 NFL campaign. Miami had home-field advantage, while Tampa Bay traveled to Hard Rock Stadium looking to improve its position before the final week.
Miami ultimately won by three points, finishing with a 20-17 advantage.
Match Information
| Match Detail | Information |
| Matchup | Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Miami Dolphins |
| Date | December 28, 2025 |
| Competition | National Football League |
| NFL Week | Week 17 |
| Venue | Hard Rock Stadium |
| Location | Miami Gardens, Florida |
| Final Score | Miami 20, Tampa Bay 17 |
| Winning Team | Miami Dolphins |
| Losing Team | Tampa Bay Buccaneers |
| Tampa Bay Record | 7-9 |
| Miami Record | 7-9 |
| ESPN Game ID | 401772916 |
Both teams finished the matchup with identical 7-9 records. However, Miami had the advantage where it mattered most: the final score.
Final Score by Quarter
The scoring pattern shows how Miami created its advantage before halftime and maintained enough control to prevent Tampa Bay from completing its comeback.
| Quarter | Tampa Bay | Miami |
| First Quarter | 7 | 7 |
| Second Quarter | 0 | 10 |
| Third Quarter | 3 | 0 |
| Fourth Quarter | 7 | 3 |
| Final Score | 17 | 20 |
Both teams started with touchdowns in the opening quarter. Tampa Bay scored first through Chris Godwin Jr., while Miami responded with a spectacular 63-yard touchdown connection between Quinn Ewers and Theo Wease Jr.
The second quarter became an important turning point. Miami added a field goal and another touchdown, moving ahead 17-7 at halftime.
Tampa Bay managed a field goal in the third quarter, but Miami answered with another three points in the fourth. The Buccaneers scored a late touchdown to reduce the deficit to three, but they could not complete the comeback.
How the Game Developed: Quarter-by-Quarter Analysis
Understanding the scoring sequence provides more insight than looking at the final score alone. Each quarter presented a different challenge for both offenses.
First Quarter: Both Offenses Find the End Zone
Tampa Bay began the scoring with an impressive opening offensive possession.
The Buccaneers moved the ball 68 yards across 14 plays. Baker Mayfield found Chris Godwin Jr. for a five-yard touchdown, giving the visiting team an early 7-0 advantage.
The drive demonstrated Tampa Bay’s ability to use short passes and controlled offensive execution to move down the field.
Miami responded quickly.
Quinn Ewers connected with Theo Wease Jr. on a 63-yard touchdown pass. The play exposed space behind Tampa Bay’s defense and immediately changed the momentum.
Riley Patterson converted the extra point, tying the game at 7-7.
The opening quarter showed two different offensive approaches. Tampa Bay relied on a longer possession, while Miami produced an explosive scoring play.
Second Quarter: Miami Takes Control
Miami gained the advantage in the second quarter.
Riley Patterson converted a 29-yard field goal, putting the Dolphins ahead 10-7.
The home team then extended its lead through another successful passing possession. Ewers connected with tight end Greg Dulcich for an 11-yard touchdown.
Patterson converted the extra point, making the score 17-7.
Tampa Bay failed to score during the quarter. Despite Mayfield’s ability to move the football through the air, the Buccaneers could not turn their offensive opportunities into points.
Miami entered halftime with a 10-point advantage.
Third Quarter: Tampa Bay Starts Its Response
The Buccaneers needed a strong third quarter to get back into the contest.
They managed to improve their position with a 33-yard field goal from Chase McLaughlin.
That reduced Miami’s lead to 17-10.
However, the Dolphins prevented Tampa Bay from building further momentum. Their defense continued to pressure the opposing offense, while their own offense avoided the mistakes that could have allowed the Buccaneers to tie the game.
Neither team scored a touchdown during the third quarter.
Fourth Quarter: Defensive Plays Decide the Result
The fourth quarter delivered the most important moments of the contest.
Miami increased its lead to 20-10 after Riley Patterson converted a 31-yard field goal.
Tampa Bay then faced another difficult situation when Mayfield threw an interception intended for Emeka Egbuka. Ashtyn Davis intercepted the pass and returned it 21 yards.
Another turnover followed when Mayfield was sacked and lost possession of the football. Miami recovered the fumble.
Despite those setbacks, Tampa Bay refused to give up.
Mayfield led a quick three-play, 91-yard scoring drive. A significant 59-yard reception by Chris Godwin Jr. helped move the Buccaneers into scoring position.
Mayfield then connected with Mike Evans for a four-yard touchdown.
The extra point made the score 20-17 with approximately 50 seconds remaining.
Tampa Bay still needed another opportunity to recover possession, but its onside kick attempt was unsuccessful. Miami maintained its advantage and secured the victory.
The closing sequence illustrated the importance of protecting possession in a close NFL game.
Quarterback Performance: Baker Mayfield vs Quinn Ewers
Quarterback statistics were among the most interesting parts of this matchup. Both players threw two touchdown passes, but their performances differed in efficiency, passing volume, and ball security.
Mayfield produced significantly more passing yards. However, Ewers avoided interceptions and finished with a higher passer rating.
Baker Mayfield’s Passing Statistics
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Baker Mayfield
346
Passing yards
2 interceptions
| Passing Statistic | Performance |
| Completions | 33 |
| Pass Attempts | 44 |
| Completion Percentage | 75.0% |
| Passing Yards | 346 |
| Yards per Attempt | 7.9 |
| Passing Touchdowns | 2 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
| Sacks Taken | 3 |
| Sack Yards Lost | 19 |
| Passer Rating | 93.6 |
| ESPN QBR | 65.1 |
Mayfield completed 33 of his 44 passing attempts, giving him a completion percentage of 75%.
His 346 passing yards demonstrated his ability to attack Miami’s secondary and distribute the football to several receivers.
He also threw two touchdown passes, including the opening score to Chris Godwin Jr. and the late touchdown to Mike Evans.
However, the two interceptions were significant problems.
Mayfield’s passing production looked impressive, but the turnovers reduced the value of his offensive output. Tampa Bay also struggled to establish a consistent running game, which increased the importance of Mayfield’s passing performance.
Another important detail was his two fumbles, with one resulting in a lost possession. Combined with his interceptions, those mistakes contributed to three Tampa Bay turnovers.
What made Mayfield’s performance important?
- He completed 75% of his passes.
- He generated 346 passing yards.
- He recorded two touchdown passes.
- He connected with multiple receivers for significant gains.
- He committed two interceptions and lost one fumble.
His statistical production was strong, but ball security was the biggest weakness in his performance.
Quinn Ewers’ Passing Statistics
Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Miami Dolphins – NFL 2025
Quinn Ewers
118.0
Passer rating
Zero interceptions
| Passing Statistic | Performance |
| Completions | 14 |
| Pass Attempts | 22 |
| Completion Percentage | 63.6% |
| Passing Yards | 172 |
| Yards per Attempt | 7.8 |
| Passing Touchdowns | 2 |
| Interceptions | 0 |
| Sacks Taken | 2 |
| Sack Yards Lost | 19 |
| Passer Rating | 118.0 |
| ESPN QBR | 34.7 |
Ewers attempted considerably fewer passes than Mayfield, but his performance was efficient enough to help Miami build an early lead.
He completed 14 of 22 attempts for 172 yards and two touchdowns.
His most important contributions came through the touchdown passes to Theo Wease Jr. and Greg Dulcich.
The 63-yard connection with Wease was particularly valuable because it produced an immediate scoring response after Tampa Bay had taken the lead.
Ewers also demonstrated good decision-making by avoiding interceptions. That distinction became increasingly important as the game progressed.
His two sacks resulted in 19 lost yards, showing that Tampa Bay’s defensive front created some pressure. Nevertheless, Ewers maintained control of the football through the air.
His 118.0 passer rating was higher than Mayfield’s 93.6 rating.
Head-to-Head Quarterback Comparison
| Category | Baker Mayfield | Quinn Ewers |
| Completions | 33 | 14 |
| Attempts | 44 | 22 |
| Completion Percentage | 75.0% | 63.6% |
| Passing Yards | 346 | 172 |
| Yards per Attempt | 7.9 | 7.8 |
| Touchdowns | 2 | 2 |
| Interceptions | 2 | 0 |
| Sacks | 3 | 2 |
| Passer Rating | 93.6 | 118.0 |
| QBR | 65.1 | 34.7 |
The comparison highlights an important difference between passing production and quarterback efficiency.
Mayfield led in completions, attempts, and total passing yards. Ewers, however, recorded the higher passer rating and avoided interceptions.
The QBR figures also need to be considered separately from passer rating. They use different calculation methods and are not interchangeable measurements.
For this matchup, the most useful conclusion is that Mayfield generated more offense, while Ewers made fewer costly mistakes.
Rushing Statistics: De’Von Achane Leads Miami’s Ground Attack
The rushing comparison was one of the clearest advantages for Miami.
Tampa Bay finished with only 53 rushing yards on 16 attempts. Miami recorded 145 yards on 30 attempts.
That difference gave the Dolphins another way to control the game and reduced their dependence on passing.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Rushing Leaders
Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Miami Dolphins – NFL 2025
Bucky Irving
19
Rushing yards
| Player | Attempts | Yards | Average | Longest Run |
| Bucky Irving | 9 | 19 | 2.1 | 12 |
| Baker Mayfield | 3 | 16 | 5.3 | 11 |
| Rachaad White | 2 | 10 | 5.0 | 7 |
| Sean Tucker | 2 | 8 | 4.0 | 6 |
| Team Total | 16 | 53 | 3.3 | 12 |
Irving led Tampa Bay in rushing attempts and rushing yards.
However, his nine carries produced only 19 yards. His average of 2.1 yards per attempt shows how difficult it was for the Buccaneers to establish a reliable ground attack.
Mayfield added 16 rushing yards on three attempts. His mobility helped him gain additional yardage, although quarterback rushing was not enough to compensate for the team’s limited production from its running backs.
Rachaad White and Sean Tucker also contributed, but neither received enough opportunities to make a significant difference.
The biggest issue was the overall rushing average. Tampa Bay managed only 3.3 yards per attempt.
That limited the offense’s ability to maintain balance and created additional pressure on Mayfield to produce through the air.
Miami Dolphins Rushing Leaders
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De’Von Achane
83
Rushing yards
| Player | Attempts | Yards | Average | Longest Run |
| De’Von Achane | 18 | 83 | 4.6 | 18 |
| Jaylen Wright | 5 | 56 | 11.2 | 32 |
| Jaylen Waddle | 1 | 7 | 7.0 | 7 |
| Quinn Ewers | 4 | 5 | 1.3 | 7 |
| Malik Washington | 1 | 1 | 1.0 | 1 |
| Greg Dulcich | 1 | -7 | -7.0 | -7 |
| Team Total | 30 | 145 | 4.8 | 32 |
Achane was Miami’s primary rushing option.
He carried the football 18 times for 83 yards, averaging 4.6 yards per attempt. His consistency gave Miami a dependable option throughout the game.
Jaylen Wright was another major contributor.
Although he received only five carries, he gained 56 yards. His 11.2-yard average was particularly impressive, and his longest run covered 32 yards.
Wright’s contribution gave Miami an additional explosive element in the running game.
The difference between Achane and Wright is worth understanding. Achane provided the larger workload and consistent production, while Wright delivered more explosive yardage on fewer opportunities.
Miami’s 145 rushing yards also meant that the offense did not need Ewers to attempt 40 or more passes.
Rushing Comparison
| Team | Attempts | Rushing Yards | Average |
| Tampa Bay | 16 | 53 | 3.3 |
| Miami | 30 | 145 | 4.8 |
Miami recorded 92 more rushing yards than Tampa Bay.
That advantage helped the Dolphins create a more balanced offensive performance. It also exposed a major difference between the teams: Tampa Bay relied heavily on its quarterback’s arm, while Miami could produce meaningful yardage on the ground.
Receiving Statistics: Jalen McMillan and Miami’s Explosive Plays
The receiving numbers provide another important perspective on the matchup.
Tampa Bay generated 346 receiving yards, while Miami produced 172. The Buccaneers had considerably more passing volume, but Miami made its limited opportunities count.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Receiving Leaders
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Jalen McMillan
114
Receiving yards
| Player | Receptions | Targets | Yards | Average | Touchdowns |
| Jalen McMillan | 7 | 9 | 114 | 16.3 | 0 |
| Chris Godwin Jr. | 7 | 8 | 108 | 15.4 | 1 |
| Cade Otton | 4 | Not listed | 33 | 8.3 | 0 |
| Mike Evans | 3 | Not listed | 31 | 10.3 | 1 |
| Emeka Egbuka | 3 | Not listed | 20 | 6.7 | 0 |
| Tez Johnson | 2 | Not listed | 19 | 9.5 | 0 |
| Bucky Irving | 5 | Not listed | 14 | 2.8 | 0 |
| Rachaad White | 2 | Not listed | 7 | 3.5 | 0 |
| Sean Tucker | 0 | Not listed | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| Team Total | 33 | 44 | 346 | 10.5 | 2 |
Jalen McMillan was Tampa Bay’s leading receiver in the supplied player statistics.
He recorded seven receptions for 114 yards on nine targets, averaging 16.3 yards per catch.
His production helped Mayfield maintain an aggressive passing approach. McMillan’s ability to generate meaningful gains made him an important part of the Buccaneers’ offensive performance.
Chris Godwin Jr. also delivered a strong game.
He recorded seven receptions for 108 yards and one touchdown. His opening-quarter touchdown gave Tampa Bay an early lead, while his 59-yard gain during the fourth-quarter comeback helped create another scoring opportunity.
Mike Evans finished with three catches for 31 yards and a touchdown. Although his overall yardage was lower than that of McMillan and Godwin, his late touchdown was important.
Cade Otton added four receptions for 33 yards, providing another reliable option in the passing game.
The distribution of receiving production shows that Tampa Bay had several players capable of making plays. Its challenge was converting that production into a winning result.
Miami Dolphins Receiving Leaders
Tampa Bay Buccaneers v Miami Dolphins – NFL 2025
Theo Wease Jr.
63
Receiving yards and a touchdown
| Player | Receptions | Targets | Yards | Average | Touchdowns |
| Theo Wease Jr. | 1 | Not listed | 63 | 63.0 | 1 |
| Greg Dulcich | 5 | Not listed | 58 | 11.6 | 1 |
| De’Von Achane | 3 | Not listed | 29 | 9.7 | 0 |
| Julian Hill | 1 | Not listed | 16 | 16.0 | 0 |
| Cedrick Wilson Jr. | 1 | Not listed | 8 | 8.0 | 0 |
| Malik Washington | 1 | Not listed | 4 | 4.0 | 0 |
| Darren Waller | 1 | Not listed | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| Jaylen Waddle | 0 | Not listed | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| Quinn Ewers | 1 | Not listed | -6 | -6.0 | 0 |
| Team Total | 14 | 22 | 172 | 12.3 | 2 |
Wease delivered one of the most memorable individual plays of the matchup.
His only reception covered 63 yards and resulted in a touchdown. That single play gave Miami a significant scoring opportunity and demonstrated the value of explosive passing plays.
Greg Dulcich was more involved throughout the passing game.
He caught five passes for 58 yards and scored one touchdown. His contribution was especially valuable because he gave Ewers a dependable target beyond the opening explosive play.
Achane added three receptions for 29 yards. His receiving production complemented his 83 rushing yards and made him an important part of Miami’s overall offensive strategy.
Julian Hill, Cedrick Wilson Jr., Malik Washington, and Darren Waller also appeared in the receiving statistics.
Receiving Comparison
| Category | Tampa Bay | Miami |
| Receptions | 33 | 14 |
| Receiving Yards | 346 | 172 |
| Average per Reception | 10.5 | 12.3 |
| Receiving Touchdowns | 2 | 2 |
| Passing Attempts | 44 | 22 |
Tampa Bay produced twice as many receiving yards as Miami.
However, Miami averaged 12.3 yards per reception compared with Tampa Bay’s 10.5. The Dolphins also scored two passing touchdowns despite having fewer receptions.
This demonstrates the difference between total passing volume and the ability to generate high-value plays.
Defensive Performance: Miami’s Turnovers Change the Game
The defensive statistics help explain why Tampa Bay lost despite producing more offensive yards.
Miami’s defense recorded two interceptions and recovered a Tampa Bay fumble. Those three takeaways were crucial in a game decided by only three points.
Tampa Bay’s defense also made important plays, but it failed to record an interception.
Miami Dolphins Defensive Statistics
| Defensive Category | Miami |
| Total Tackles | 70 |
| Solo Tackles | 41 |
| Sacks | 3 |
| Tackles for Loss | 6 |
| Passes Defended | 6 |
| Quarterback Hits | 4 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
Miami’s defense produced pressure and disrupted Tampa Bay’s passing game at important moments.
The three sacks limited Mayfield’s ability to operate comfortably. Six tackles for loss also demonstrated that Miami’s defenders were effective at disrupting offensive plays behind the line of scrimmage.
The six passes defended provided further evidence of the secondary’s contribution.
However, the interceptions were the biggest defensive difference.
Jack Jones Leads Miami in Tackles
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Jack Jones
10
Total tackles
| Defensive Statistic | Performance |
| Total Tackles | 10 |
| Solo Tackles | 8 |
| Tackles for Loss | 1 |
| Passes Defended | 1 |
Jack Jones led Miami’s defensive players with 10 total tackles.
His eight solo tackles demonstrate that he made several individual stops without requiring assistance from another defender.
He also recorded a tackle for loss and a pass defended.
His performance contributed to Miami’s ability to limit Tampa Bay’s offensive opportunities and maintain defensive pressure.
Miami’s Interceptions
Two defensive backs recorded interceptions for the Dolphins.
| Player | Interceptions | Return Yards |
| Jason Marshall Jr. | 1 | 24 |
| Ashtyn Davis | 1 | 21 |
| Team Total | 2 | 45 |
Jason Marshall Jr. recorded an interception with 24 return yards.
Ashtyn Davis added another interception, returning it 21 yards. His fourth-quarter interception was particularly important because Tampa Bay was attempting to reduce Miami’s lead.
The timing of Davis’s interception made it one of the defining defensive moments of the contest.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers Defensive Statistics
| Defensive Category | Tampa Bay |
| Total Tackles | 58 |
| Solo Tackles | 31 |
| Sacks | 2 |
| Tackles for Loss | 6 |
| Passes Defended | 3 |
| Quarterback Hits | 3 |
| Interceptions | 0 |
Tampa Bay’s defense recorded two sacks and six tackles for loss.
Those numbers show that the Buccaneers were capable of creating pressure and disrupting Miami’s offensive rhythm.
Nevertheless, they did not record an interception.
The absence of interceptions was particularly important because Ewers attempted only 22 passes. Miami’s quarterback was able to complete his scoring opportunities without giving the opposing defense an additional possession.
Defensive Comparison
| Statistic | Tampa Bay | Miami |
| Total Tackles | 58 | 70 |
| Solo Tackles | 31 | 41 |
| Sacks | 2 | 3 |
| Tackles for Loss | 6 | 6 |
| Passes Defended | 3 | 6 |
| QB Hits | 3 | 4 |
| Interceptions | 0 | 2 |
Miami led in tackles, sacks, passes defended, quarterback hits, and interceptions.
Both teams recorded six tackles for loss, but Miami had the more productive overall defensive performance.
The most important distinction was possession. Miami generated two interceptions and recovered a fumble, while Tampa Bay failed to take the ball away.
Special Teams Statistics: Riley Patterson Makes the Difference
Special teams often become particularly important in games decided by a field goal.
This matchup was no exception.
Miami’s Riley Patterson converted both of his field-goal attempts, while Tampa Bay’s Chase McLaughlin missed one of his two attempts.
Kicking Comparison
| Statistic | Chase McLaughlin | Riley Patterson |
| Team | Tampa Bay | Miami |
| Field Goals Made | 1 | 2 |
| Field Goals Attempted | 2 | 2 |
| Field Goal Percentage | 50% | 100% |
| Longest Field Goal | 33 yards | 31 yards |
| Extra Points Made | 2 | 2 |
| Extra Points Attempted | 2 | 2 |
| Total Points | 5 | 8 |
Patterson converted both field-goal attempts and both extra points.
His eight points represented an important contribution to Miami’s final score.
McLaughlin converted one field goal and both extra points, finishing with five points.
The difference between the kickers was three points, exactly matching Miami’s winning margin. That does not mean one missed kick alone explains the outcome, but it highlights how valuable reliable kicking can be in a close contest.
Punting Statistics
| Statistic | Riley Dixon | Jake Bailey |
| Team | Tampa Bay | Miami |
| Total Punts | 3 | 5 |
| Total Punting Yards | 126 | 236 |
| Average | 42.0 | 47.2 |
| Longest Punt | 58 yards | 58 yards |
| Touchbacks | 0 | 0 |
| Inside the 20 | 2 | 1 |
Jake Bailey averaged 47.2 yards per punt, compared with Riley Dixon’s 42.0.
Dixon placed two punts inside the 20-yard line, while Bailey placed one there.
Both punters recorded a longest punt of 58 yards.
The figures show that Miami had more punting opportunities, partly because its offense did not sustain every possession. However, Bailey generated the higher average.
Kick and Punt Returns
| Team | Returner | Return Type | Attempts | Yards | Average |
| Tampa Bay | Kameron Johnson | Kick | 3 | 75 | 25.0 |
| Miami | Malik Washington | Kick | 1 | 47 | 47.0 |
| Tampa Bay | Kameron Johnson | Punt | 2 | 27 | 13.5 |
| Miami | No return recorded | Punt | 0 | 0 | 0 |
Malik Washington’s 47-yard kick return was a notable contribution for Miami.
Kameron Johnson handled most of Tampa Bay’s return work, recording 75 kickoff return yards and 27 punt return yards.
These plays provided both teams with opportunities to improve their field position.
Complete Team Statistics: Tampa Bay vs Miami
Individual performances are important, but team statistics provide a broader understanding of how the contest unfolded.
Tampa Bay finished with more total yards, first downs, passing yards, and time of possession. Miami, however, gained considerably more rushing yardage and protected the football more effectively.
Overall Team Comparison
| Team Statistic | Tampa Bay | Miami |
| Final Score | 17 | 20 |
| Total Net Yards | 380 | 298 |
| Passing Yards (Gross) | 346 | 172 |
| Net Passing Yards | 327 | 153 |
| Rushing Yards | 53 | 145 |
| Total Offensive Plays | 63 | 54 |
| First Downs | 21 | 13 |
| Passing First Downs | 14 | 6 |
| Rushing First Downs | 5 | 7 |
| Third-Down Conversion | 6/13 | 4/12 |
| Third-Down Percentage | 46% | 33% |
| Fourth-Down Conversion | 2/2 | 0/0 |
| Sacks Allowed | 3 | 2 |
| Turnovers | 3 | 0 |
| Penalties | 5 | 10 |
| Penalty Yards | 45 | 77 |
| Time of Possession | 32:06 | 27:54 |
One of the most interesting aspects of this comparison is that Tampa Bay gained 82 more total net yards than Miami but still lost.
The Buccaneers also recorded eight more first downs and held possession for more than four additional minutes.
However, those advantages did not translate into a victory.
Miami was more efficient in the areas that directly influenced the scoreboard. Its rushing attack created 145 yards, its defense forced three turnovers, and its kicker converted every field-goal attempt.
Understanding the Turnover Difference
Turnovers were arguably the most important statistical factor in the matchup.
Tampa Bay recorded:
- Two interceptions thrown by Baker Mayfield.
- Two team fumbles.
- One lost fumble.
Miami recorded:
- Two defensive interceptions.
- One team fumble that was not lost.
- No interceptions thrown by Quinn Ewers.
The Buccaneers therefore finished with three turnovers, while Miami finished without a lost possession.
This difference is particularly significant in a game decided by three points.
Tampa Bay’s offensive production created opportunities, but its mistakes repeatedly interrupted promising possessions.
Miami did not need to dominate every offensive category because its defense consistently gave the team opportunities to maintain control.
The Most Important Factors Behind Miami’s Victory
Several individual performances and team-level advantages combined to produce Miami’s result.
1. Miami Won the Rushing Battle
The Dolphins finished with 145 rushing yards, compared with Tampa Bay’s 53.
Achane carried the ball 18 times for 83 yards, while Wright added 56 yards on only five attempts.
Together, their production gave Miami a reliable ground attack.
Tampa Bay’s running game struggled to create the same consistency. Irving averaged just 2.1 yards per carry.
The difference allowed Miami to remain productive without depending entirely on Ewers.
2. The Dolphins Protected the Football
Miami’s offense avoided interceptions and lost fumbles.
Ewers completed both of his touchdown passes without throwing an interception.
Mayfield, on the other hand, threw two interceptions and lost a fumble.
The three-turnover difference gave Miami a major advantage in possession management.
3. Miami Took Advantage of Explosive Passing Opportunities
The touchdown pass from Ewers to Wease was a defining moment.
A 63-yard scoring play allowed Miami to respond immediately after Tampa Bay scored its opening touchdown.
Dulcich’s 11-yard touchdown reception then helped Miami build a 17-7 halftime advantage.
These plays were especially valuable because Miami did not need a high volume of passing attempts to generate points.
4. Riley Patterson Delivered Reliable Kicking
Patterson converted both field goals and both extra points.
His eight total points were an important part of Miami’s winning score.
Tampa Bay’s McLaughlin missed one field-goal attempt, leaving the Buccaneers with fewer points from their kicking opportunities.
5. Miami’s Defense Delivered at Critical Moments
The Dolphins recorded two interceptions and recovered a fumble.
Ashtyn Davis’s fourth-quarter interception was particularly important because it interrupted Tampa Bay’s attempt to close the scoring gap.
Miami’s defense also recorded three sacks and six tackles for loss.
These contributions helped the home team protect its advantage.
Why Tampa Bay Lost Despite Gaining More Yards
The difference between total yardage and winning football is an important lesson from this game.
Tampa Bay generated 380 total net yards. Miami produced 298.
At first glance, those numbers suggest that the Buccaneers controlled the offensive statistics. However, football games are not decided by total yardage alone.
Three issues explain why Tampa Bay’s greater production did not lead to a victory.
Poor Ball Security
The Buccaneers committed three turnovers.
Each turnover represented an opportunity for Miami to gain possession without having to earn it through a defensive stop.
Mayfield’s two interceptions and lost fumble were particularly damaging because they came during important stages of the game.
Limited Running Game
Tampa Bay’s 53 rushing yards were considerably lower than Miami’s 145.
This imbalance placed additional responsibility on Mayfield.
Although he passed for 346 yards, the Buccaneers struggled to maintain an effective ground attack.
A productive running game can help control the clock, reduce defensive pressure on the quarterback, and create more balanced offensive opportunities.
Tampa Bay did not receive enough of those benefits.
Missed Opportunities
The Buccaneers had 21 first downs compared with Miami’s 13.
They also converted six of 13 third-down attempts.
Those numbers demonstrate that Tampa Bay could move the ball and extend drives.
However, converting offensive opportunities into points was a different challenge.
The missed field-goal attempt, turnovers, and limited second-quarter production all contributed to the defeat.
What the Match Player Statistics Reveal About Individual Roles
The individual numbers also help explain how each team’s offensive strategy worked.
Baker Mayfield: High Volume, High Responsibility
Mayfield’s 346 passing yards were the highest individual passing total in the game.
His 33 completions demonstrated how frequently Tampa Bay used the passing game to advance the football.
However, the 44 attempts also reflect the pressure placed on him by the limited running game.
His two touchdowns helped Tampa Bay remain competitive, but the turnovers prevented his passing production from delivering a victory.
Quinn Ewers: Efficient Scoring Contributions
Ewers attempted half as many passes as Mayfield.
Despite the lower volume, he produced two touchdowns and did not throw an interception.
His 63-yard touchdown connection with Wease provided Miami with an explosive offensive play, while his connection with Dulcich extended the lead.
His contribution was less about accumulating passing yards and more about converting opportunities into points.
De’Von Achane: Consistency and Versatility
Achane’s 83 rushing yards made him Miami’s leading ground contributor.
He also caught three passes for 29 yards.
That gave him 112 combined rushing and receiving yards from scrimmage.
His ability to contribute in both phases made him an important part of Miami’s offensive structure.
Jaylen Wright: An Important Secondary Contributor
Wright’s 56 rushing yards on five attempts deserve attention.
His 11.2-yard average was the highest among Miami’s regular rushing contributors.
His 32-yard longest run helped demonstrate how quickly Miami could generate yardage through the ground game.
Jalen McMillan: Tampa Bay’s Leading Receiver
McMillan led the supplied receiving statistics with 114 yards on seven receptions.
His 16.3 yards per catch reflected his ability to create significant gains.
He was an important part of Mayfield’s passing production, even though Tampa Bay ultimately fell short.
Chris Godwin Jr.: A Key Scoring Target
Godwin recorded 108 receiving yards and a touchdown.
His opening-quarter score helped Tampa Bay establish an early advantage.
His 59-yard reception during the fourth quarter also helped create the opportunity for the Buccaneers’ late touchdown.
Greg Dulcich: Miami’s Reliable Receiving Option
Dulcich recorded five receptions for 58 yards and one touchdown.
His involvement was important because Ewers needed reliable options beyond the deep passing game.
Dulcich provided a productive intermediate target and helped Miami build its first-half lead.
Historical and Statistical Significance of the Result
The December 28 contest was important because both teams were approaching the end of their regular-season schedules.
Tampa Bay entered the matchup looking to improve its 2025 campaign, while Miami was attempting to finish its home schedule with a positive result.
The 20-17 outcome provided Miami with a victory over an opponent that had generated considerably more passing production.
The result also illustrated how several different football skills work together:
- Quarterback decision-making determines whether passing opportunities become productive possessions.
- Running-back production creates offensive balance.
- Defensive pressure can disrupt an otherwise productive passing attack.
- Interceptions and fumble recoveries can change possession at critical moments.
- Kicking accuracy can influence the final margin.
For readers studying individual performances, this game is a useful example of why a complete statistical breakdown should include offense, defense, and special teams.
Looking only at Mayfield’s 346 passing yards would miss the importance of Miami’s takeaways. Looking only at Ewers’s 172 passing yards would overlook Achane’s rushing contribution and the Dolphins’ defensive performance.
A complete evaluation requires all these numbers to be considered together.
Where to Verify the Official Game Information
For readers who want to examine the game report and scoring sequence, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ official Week 17 game recap provides additional context about the 20-17 result.
The report discusses the Buccaneers’ offensive production, Miami’s defensive takeaways, and the important plays that shaped the fourth quarter.
For a statistical article, official game reports are useful because they provide context that a player-statistics table cannot always communicate.
They also help distinguish between a player’s overall production and the impact of a particular play on the final result.
Key Takeaways from Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Miami Dolphins Match Player Stats
The numbers provide several important conclusions about the matchup.
- Miami won 20-17: The Dolphins secured a three-point victory at Hard Rock Stadium.
- Mayfield led in passing yards: His 346 yards were considerably higher than Ewers’s 172.
- Ewers had the better passer rating: He finished with a 118.0 rating compared with Mayfield’s 93.6.
- Achane led the rushing attack: His 83 yards on 18 carries made him Miami’s leading rusher.
- Wright provided explosive production: He gained 56 yards on five attempts.
- McMillan led Tampa Bay’s receivers: He finished with 114 receiving yards.
- Wease delivered a major touchdown: His 63-yard reception was Miami’s longest scoring play.
- Miami won the turnover battle: The Dolphins recorded two interceptions and recovered one fumble.
- Patterson converted every kick: He made both field goals and both extra points.
- Tampa Bay generated more total yards: Despite gaining 380 yards, the Buccaneers could not overcome their mistakes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who won the Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Miami Dolphins game on December 28, 2025?
The Miami Dolphins defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20-17 in their Week 17 NFL matchup at Hard Rock Stadium. Miami secured the victory through effective rushing, two defensive interceptions, and reliable kicking.
2. How many passing yards did Baker Mayfield record against Miami?
Baker Mayfield completed 33 of 44 passes for 346 yards and two touchdowns. He also threw two interceptions, took three sacks, and finished with a 93.6 passer rating.
3. How did Quinn Ewers perform against the Buccaneers?
Quinn Ewers completed 14 of 22 passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns. He did not throw an interception and recorded a 118.0 passer rating.
4. Who was Miami’s leading rusher against Tampa Bay?
De’Von Achane led Miami with 83 rushing yards on 18 carries. He averaged 4.6 yards per attempt and also added 29 receiving yards.
5. Who recorded the most receiving yards in the game?
Jalen McMillan led the supplied receiving statistics with 114 yards on seven receptions for Tampa Bay. Miami’s leading receiver was Theo Wease Jr., who recorded 63 yards and a touchdown on one reception.
6. How many turnovers did Miami force against Tampa Bay?
Miami recorded two interceptions and recovered one Tampa Bay fumble. The Buccaneers therefore finished with three turnovers, while Miami did not lose possession through an interception or fumble.
Conclusion
The December 28, 2025, matchup between Tampa Bay and Miami demonstrated how offensive production, defensive execution, and special teams can collectively determine an NFL result. Miami secured a 20-17 victory despite recording fewer total yards and first downs than the Buccaneers.
Baker Mayfield delivered an impressive 346 passing yards and two touchdowns, while Jalen McMillan and Chris Godwin Jr. produced strong receiving performances. However, Tampa Bay’s three turnovers and limited rushing production created significant obstacles.
Miami benefited from Quinn Ewers’s two touchdown passes, De’Von Achane’s 83 rushing yards, Jaylen Wright’s explosive contributions, and two important defensive interceptions. Riley Patterson also converted both field-goal attempts.
Ultimately, the tampa bay buccaneers vs miami dolphins match player stats show that Miami won through better ball security, a stronger running game, and timely defensive execution. Tampa Bay produced more offensive yardage, but the Dolphins made better use of their opportunities and protected their narrow lead until the final whistle.
