Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Miami Dolphins Match Player Stats

The tampa bay buccaneers vs miami dolphins match player stats from the December 28, 2025 NFL matchup reveal a game that was far closer than the final score suggests. Miami secured a 20 to 17 victory at home, but the statistics tell a deeper story about efficiency, turnovers, defensive execution, and game management. While Tampa Bay generated more passing production and moved the ball effectively through the air, Miami capitalized on key opportunities, protected possession, and relied on a balanced offensive approach to earn the win.

For football fans, analysts, fantasy football players, and anyone reviewing this contest, understanding the numbers behind the result is far more valuable than simply knowing who won. Individual player performances, quarterback efficiency, rushing success, defensive pressure, and special teams contributions all influenced the outcome. This detailed breakdown examines every important statistic while explaining what those numbers actually mean on the field.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs Miami Dolphins Match Player Stats

Match Overview

Category	Details
Sport	NFL
Date	December 28, 2025
Venue	Miami Dolphins Home Stadium
Final Score	Miami Dolphins 20, Tampa Bay Buccaneers 17
Winning Team	Miami Dolphins
Tampa Bay Record	7 to 9
Miami Record	7 to 9

Although both teams entered the contest with identical records, the game demonstrated two different offensive philosophies. Tampa Bay relied heavily on Baker Mayfield’s passing attack, while Miami combined efficient quarterback play with a productive rushing offense and mistake free football.

One of the biggest lessons from this matchup is that total offensive yards do not always determine the winner. Football games are frequently decided by turnovers, field position, defensive stops, and execution during critical moments.

Game Flow by Quarter

First Quarter

The opening quarter finished tied at 7 to 7 as both offenses found early rhythm. Tampa Bay attacked through the air, while Miami answered with a balanced offensive drive that kept the Buccaneers’ defense on the field.

Second Quarter

Miami took control before halftime by outscoring Tampa Bay 10 to 0. Their defense tightened significantly, forcing mistakes while the offense efficiently converted scoring opportunities.

At halftime, Miami held a 17 to 7 advantage.

Third Quarter

Tampa Bay’s defense responded well, allowing only one field goal while adding three points themselves. Momentum briefly shifted toward the Buccaneers, although they still trailed entering the fourth quarter.

Fourth Quarter

Both teams scored once in the final period, but Miami maintained enough of its earlier advantage to finish with a three point victory.

Quarter by quarter scoring:

Quarter	Tampa Bay	Miami
First	7	7
Second	0	10
Third	3	0
Fourth	7	3

The second quarter ultimately became the deciding stretch of the game.

Quarterback Performance Analysis

Quarterback play often defines NFL games, and this matchup provided an interesting comparison between high volume production and efficient decision making.

Baker Mayfield Performance

Baker Mayfield finished with impressive passing yardage.

Statistic	Total
Completions	33
Attempts	44
Passing Yards	346
Passing Touchdowns	2
Interceptions	2
Sacks Taken	3
QBR	65.1
Passer Rating	93.6

At first glance, 346 passing yards appears outstanding. Mayfield consistently found open receivers and completed several explosive plays downfield.

However, two interceptions significantly reduced the overall value of his performance. Both turnovers prevented Tampa Bay from maximizing its offensive production and gave Miami additional possessions.

From an analytical perspective, this performance demonstrates how passing volume alone does not guarantee victory.

Quinn Ewers Performance

Miami quarterback Quinn Ewers delivered one of the most efficient games of the season.

Statistic	Total
Completions	14
Attempts	22
Passing Yards	172
Passing Touchdowns	2
Interceptions	0
Sacks Taken	2
QBR	34.7
Passer Rating	118.0

Although Ewers threw for only 172 yards, he avoided turnovers completely while producing two touchdown passes.

His passer rating of 118.0 highlights exceptional efficiency. Instead of forcing difficult throws, he consistently made smart decisions and allowed Miami’s rushing attack to control the pace of the game.

Passing Comparison

Category	Tampa Bay	Miami
Passing Yards	346	172
Passing TD	2	2
Interceptions	2	0
Sacks Allowed	3	2

This comparison perfectly illustrates one of football’s most important principles.

Tampa Bay nearly doubled Miami’s passing production, yet Miami won because protecting the football proved more valuable than accumulating extra passing yards.

Rushing Performance Breakdown

The ground game separated these teams throughout the afternoon.

Tampa Bay Rushing Leaders

Bucky Irving

Statistic	Total
Carries	9
Rushing Yards	19

Irving found little room against Miami’s defensive front. Averaging just over two yards per carry prevented Tampa Bay from establishing offensive balance.

Baker Mayfield

Statistic	Total
Carries	3
Rushing Yards	16

Mayfield’s scrambling helped extend several plays, but quarterback rushing alone could not compensate for the limited production from the running backs.

Miami Rushing Leaders

De’Von Achane

Achane played one of the biggest roles in Miami’s victory.

Statistic	Total
Carries	18
Rushing Yards	83

His consistent gains kept Miami ahead of schedule on offense and reduced pressure on the passing game.

Jaylen Wright

Statistic	Total
Carries	5
Rushing Yards	56

Wright provided explosive runs that changed field position and helped Miami maintain offensive momentum throughout the game.

Team Rushing Comparison

Team	Total Rushing Yards
Tampa Bay	53
Miami	145

Miami outgained Tampa Bay by 92 rushing yards.

This advantage allowed the Dolphins to:

• Control time of possession.
• Reduce passing pressure.
• Wear down the defense.
• Create manageable third down situations.
• Protect their lead during the second half.

The difference in rushing production explains much of the final result.

Receiving Leaders

Tampa Bay’s receiving corps delivered several outstanding individual performances despite the loss.

Jalen McMillan

Statistic	Total
Receptions	7
Receiving Yards	114

McMillan consistently stretched Miami’s secondary and became Mayfield’s most productive target.

Chris Godwin Jr.

Statistic	Total
Receptions	7
Receiving Yards	108
Receiving Touchdowns	1

Godwin combined reliable hands with excellent route running, surpassing the century mark while scoring one touchdown.

Together, McMillan and Godwin accounted for more than 220 receiving yards, demonstrating how dangerous Tampa Bay’s passing attack remained despite the defeat.

Miami Dolphins Receiving Leaders

While Miami did not produce the same passing volume as Tampa Bay, their receiving production was highly efficient. The Dolphins focused on making important plays at the right moments rather than consistently attacking through the air.

Theo Wease Jr.

Statistic	Total
Receptions	1
Receiving Yards	63
Receiving Touchdowns	1

Theo Wease Jr. made the most of his limited opportunities. His 63 yard touchdown reception became one of Miami’s most important offensive plays because it created separation on the scoreboard and rewarded the team’s efficient passing strategy.

A single explosive play can completely change an NFL game, especially when paired with strong defensive execution.

Greg Dulcich

Statistic	Total
Receptions	5
Receiving Yards	58
Receiving Touchdowns	1

Dulcich provided consistency in the middle of the field and helped Miami convert important situations. His five receptions showed the value of dependable targets who can create positive plays without requiring a high number of passing attempts.

Receiving Comparison

Category	Tampa Bay	Miami
Total Receiving Yards	346	172
Passing Touchdowns	2	2

Tampa Bay clearly won the receiving yardage battle, but Miami’s receivers produced more efficiently because their opportunities resulted in scoring plays and fewer mistakes.

This matchup is a good example of why evaluating receivers requires more than looking only at total yards. Context matters:

• How many targets did a player receive?
• Were those receptions creating scoring opportunities?
• Did the offense protect the football?
• Did the receiving production contribute directly to winning?

Defensive Performance Breakdown

Defense was the deciding factor in this contest. Both teams created pressure, but Miami’s defense produced the game changing plays that Tampa Bay could not overcome.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Defensive Statistics

Category	Total
Total Tackles	58
Solo Tackles	31
Sacks	2
Tackles for Loss	6
Pass Deflections	3
Quarterback Hits	3
Interceptions	0

Tampa Bay’s defense showed several positive signs. Creating six tackles for loss and generating quarterback pressure helped limit Miami’s offense.

However, the biggest missing element was creating turnovers.

Against a team that committed no interceptions, Tampa Bay needed additional defensive possessions to overcome offensive mistakes.

Miami Dolphins Defensive Statistics

Category	Total
Total Tackles	70
Solo Tackles	41
Sacks	3
Tackles for Loss	6
Pass Deflections	6
Quarterback Hits	4
Interceptions	2

Miami’s defensive performance was more impactful because it combined pressure with takeaways.

The Dolphins recorded:

• 2 interceptions
• 3 sacks
• 6 pass deflections
• 4 quarterback hits

Those plays directly influenced the final score.

Turnover Battle: The Hidden Deciding Factor

One of the clearest stories from the tampa bay buccaneers vs miami dolphins match player stats is the turnover difference.

Category	Tampa Bay	Miami
Interceptions Thrown	2	0
Fumbles	2	1
Fumbles Lost	1	0
Defensive Interceptions	0	2

Miami won the turnover battle decisively.

The Dolphins created two interceptions:

• Jason Marshall Jr. recorded one interception.
• Ashtyn Davis recorded one interception.

Tampa Bay failed to create a takeaway.

In closely contested NFL games, turnover margin often determines the winner. Miami did not need to dominate every statistical category because they gained extra possessions and avoided giving opportunities away.

Special Teams Analysis

Special teams played an important supporting role in the final three point victory.

Tampa Bay Special Teams

Kicking Performance

Player	Field Goals	Long	Extra Points	Total Points
Chase McLaughlin	1/2	33 yards	2/2	5

McLaughlin converted his extra points but missed one field goal attempt. In a game decided by three points, every scoring opportunity becomes important.

Kick Return Performance

Player	Returns	Yards	Average
Kameron Johnson	3	75	25.0

Johnson provided solid field position throughout the game.

Punt Return Performance

Player	Returns	Yards
Kameron Johnson	2	27

His return ability helped Tampa Bay maintain favorable field position situations.

Punting Performance

Player	Punts	Total Yards	Average	Long
Riley Dixon	3	126	42.0	58

Dixon delivered a consistent punting performance, including a long 58 yard punt.

Miami Special Teams

Kicking Performance

Player	Field Goals	Long	Extra Points	Total Points
Riley Patterson	2/2	31 yards	2/2	8

Patterson’s perfect kicking performance provided reliable scoring support.

Kick Return Performance

Player	Returns	Yards
Malik Washington	1	47

Washington created a strong field position opportunity with his return.

Punting Performance

Player	Punts	Total Yards	Average	Long
Jake Bailey	5	236	47.2	58

Bailey’s punting helped Miami control field position and limit Tampa Bay’s starting positions.

Key Statistical Differences That Decided the Game

A deeper look at the numbers shows several areas where Miami gained the advantage.

1. Rushing Efficiency

Miami:

• 145 rushing yards
• Strong production from De’Von Achane and Jaylen Wright

Tampa Bay:

• 53 rushing yards
• Limited success creating running lanes

The Dolphins controlled the ground game, allowing them to manage the clock.

2. Turnover Advantage

Miami:

• 2 defensive interceptions
• 0 turnovers lost

Tampa Bay:

• 2 interceptions thrown
• 1 lost fumble

The extra possessions created by Miami’s defense were crucial.

3. Reducing Mistakes

Miami avoided the costly errors that often decide close NFL contests.

Their formula was simple:

• Protect the football.
• Run efficiently.
• Make defensive plays.
• Convert scoring opportunities.

Tampa Bay produced impressive offensive numbers but could not overcome mistakes in critical situations.

Where Fans and Analysts Should Look Beyond the Box Score

Traditional box scores provide valuable information, but they do not always explain why a team won.

When analyzing NFL performances, it is important to consider:

Efficiency Over Volume

A quarterback throwing for more yards does not automatically mean a better performance. Completion percentage, turnovers, scoring plays, and decision making are equally important.

Situational Football

Third downs, red zone opportunities, and late game possessions often determine outcomes.

Defensive Impact

A defense can influence a game without dominating total yardage. Creating turnovers and stopping explosive plays can be more valuable than simply reducing yards.

For official NFL statistical reference, fans can compare detailed game information through the league’s official statistics database: NFL Official Statistics

Fantasy Football Insights From the Match

The matchup also provided several useful fantasy football observations.

Baker Mayfield

Positive factors:

• High passing volume
• 346 passing yards
• 2 touchdown passes

Concerns:

• Two interceptions
• Limited rushing contribution

His fantasy value remained strong because of volume, but turnovers affected his real football impact.

De’Von Achane

Achane delivered the most complete offensive performance for Miami.

Key fantasy positives:

• 18 carries
• 83 rushing yards
• Significant workload

His ability to combine efficiency and volume made him one of the most valuable players from the game.

Chris Godwin Jr.

Godwin remained a reliable receiving option.

His production:

• 7 receptions
• 108 yards
• 1 touchdown

shows his importance in Tampa Bay’s passing system.

Jaylen Wright

Wright’s explosive rushing ability stood out.

His 56 yards on only five carries demonstrated efficiency and big-play potential.

Advanced Takeaways From the Match

Miami Won With Balance

The Dolphins did not rely on one area of the offense. They combined:

• Efficient quarterback play
• Strong rushing production
• Turnover creation
• Reliable kicking

This balanced approach helped them overcome Tampa Bay’s passing advantage.

Tampa Bay’s Passing Attack Was Not Enough

The Buccaneers demonstrated offensive talent, especially through their receiving group.

However, turnovers and limited rushing production created a difficult path to victory.

Defense Created the Difference

The biggest statistical separator was Miami’s ability to create turnovers.

Two interceptions changed the game and prevented Tampa Bay from converting its offensive production into more points.

Player Impact Summary

The tampa bay buccaneers vs miami dolphins match player stats provide a clear picture of how individual performances shaped the final outcome. Some players produced impressive numbers, while others made fewer plays but delivered moments that directly affected the result.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Most Influential Players

Baker Mayfield: High Production With Costly Mistakes

Baker Mayfield was one of the most productive players on the field from a statistical perspective.

His final numbers:

• 33 completions on 44 attempts
• 346 passing yards
• 2 passing touchdowns
• 2 interceptions

The yardage shows his ability to consistently move the football, but the interceptions became the turning point of the game.

A quarterback can play aggressively and generate big plays, but against a disciplined opponent, protecting possessions becomes equally important.

Mayfield’s performance represented the challenge of evaluating quarterbacks through both production and efficiency. His passing numbers were strong, but the turnovers prevented Tampa Bay from converting that production into victory.

Jalen McMillan: Explosive Receiving Option

McMillan delivered one of Tampa Bay’s strongest offensive performances.

His contribution:

• 7 receptions
• 114 receiving yards

He consistently created separation and helped Tampa Bay maintain offensive pressure. His ability to produce explosive gains gave the Buccaneers a reliable option in the passing game.

Chris Godwin Jr.: Reliable Red Zone Threat

Godwin remained one of Tampa Bay’s most dependable targets.

His numbers:

• 7 receptions
• 108 receiving yards
• 1 touchdown

Godwin’s combination of route precision and consistency allowed Tampa Bay to remain competitive throughout the game.

Miami Dolphins Most Influential Players

De’Von Achane: The Engine of the Offense

Achane’s rushing performance was one of the biggest reasons Miami controlled the game.

His statistics:

• 18 carries
• 83 rushing yards

The importance of Achane’s contribution goes beyond the yardage total. His running style helped Miami maintain offensive balance and reduced pressure on Quinn Ewers.

Quinn Ewers: Efficient Decision Making

Ewers did not produce huge passing totals, but his efficiency was critical.

His performance included:

• 14 completions on 22 attempts
• 172 passing yards
• 2 touchdowns
• 0 interceptions

The biggest difference between the quarterbacks was not passing volume. It was ball security.

Ewers protected possessions, while Miami’s defense created additional opportunities through turnovers.

Miami Defensive Playmakers

Jason Marshall Jr. and Ashtyn Davis created two of the most important moments of the game with their interceptions.

Those defensive plays prevented Tampa Bay from gaining full advantage from its passing success.

Lessons From the Match for Football Analysis

This matchup provides several valuable lessons for anyone studying NFL performance.

Total Yardage Does Not Always Equal Victory

Tampa Bay finished with more passing production, but Miami won the game.

This demonstrates why analysts must evaluate multiple categories:

• Turnovers
• Rushing efficiency
• Defensive impact
• Scoring opportunities
• Field position

A team can dominate one statistical category and still lose because football outcomes depend on situational execution.

Turnover Margin Remains One of the Strongest Predictors

The Dolphins won because they created turnovers and avoided giving the ball away.

The difference:

Miami:

• 0 interceptions thrown
• 2 defensive interceptions
• 0 lost fumbles

Tampa Bay:

• 2 interceptions thrown
• 1 lost fumble

Those extra possessions created opportunities that Tampa Bay could not recover from.

Balanced Offense Creates More Options

Miami’s offensive approach showed the value of balance.

The Dolphins combined:

• 145 rushing yards
• Efficient passing
• Two passing touchdowns

This forced Tampa Bay’s defense to prepare for multiple threats instead of focusing on stopping one area.

Challenges Highlighted By Tampa Bay’s Performance

Despite losing, Tampa Bay showed several strengths.

Strong Passing Ability

The Buccaneers generated 346 passing yards, showing their ability to attack through the air.

Productive Receivers

Both Jalen McMillan and Chris Godwin Jr. exceeded 100 receiving yards.

Defensive Pressure

Tampa Bay recorded:

• 2 sacks
• 6 tackles for loss
• 3 quarterback hits

However, the challenge was finishing drives and preventing turnovers.

Challenges Highlighted By Miami’s Performance

Miami also had areas that required improvement.

Limited Passing Volume

The Dolphins passed for 172 yards, which was significantly lower than Tampa Bay.

Against a stronger opponent, they may need more consistent offensive production.

Defensive Dependence on Takeaways

Creating turnovers was a major advantage, but turnovers can vary from game to game.

Maintaining pressure and improving defensive consistency remains important.

How to Analyze Similar NFL Matchups

When reviewing future games, fans and analysts should follow a structured approach.

Step 1: Start With Team Efficiency

Look beyond final scores and review:

• Offensive production
• Defensive stops
• Turnovers
• Third down performance

Step 2: Compare Individual Matchups

Important areas include:

• Quarterback versus secondary
• Offensive line versus defensive front
• Receivers versus coverage defenders
• Running backs versus tackling ability

Step 3: Identify Game Changing Moments

Not every play has equal value.

A single interception, explosive run, or missed scoring opportunity can influence an entire game.

Step 4: Separate Statistics From Story

Numbers explain what happened, but analysis explains why it happened.

The best evaluations combine statistical evidence with football context.

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the final tampa bay buccaneers vs miami dolphins match player stats results?

The Miami Dolphins defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers 20 to 17 on December 28, 2025. Baker Mayfield led Tampa Bay with 346 passing yards, while Quinn Ewers threw for 172 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions for Miami.

Who was the leading rusher in the Buccaneers vs Dolphins game?

De’Von Achane was Miami’s leading rusher with 18 carries for 83 yards. Tampa Bay’s leading rusher was Bucky Irving, who recorded 19 rushing yards on nine carries.

Which quarterback performed better in the matchup?

Both quarterbacks had productive moments, but Quinn Ewers delivered the more efficient performance because he threw two touchdowns without an interception. Baker Mayfield produced more yards but committed two interceptions.

Who were the top receivers in the game?

Jalen McMillan led Tampa Bay with 114 receiving yards, while Chris Godwin Jr. recorded 108 yards and one touchdown. Miami’s leading receiver was Theo Wease Jr. with 63 yards and one touchdown.

How did Miami win despite fewer passing yards?

Miami won because it controlled the rushing game, avoided turnovers, and created two defensive interceptions. Tampa Bay produced more passing yards but lost the turnover battle.

Which team had the stronger defensive performance?

Miami produced the more impactful defensive performance by recording two interceptions, three sacks, and six pass deflections. Tampa Bay generated pressure but failed to create turnovers.

Conclusion

The Miami Dolphins’ 20 to 17 victory over the Tampa Bay Buccaneers was a strong example of how NFL games are decided by more than total yardage. Tampa Bay’s passing attack produced impressive numbers, with Baker Mayfield throwing for 346 yards and receivers Jalen McMillan and Chris Godwin Jr. creating major production.

However, Miami’s combination of efficient quarterback play, strong rushing performance, defensive takeaways, and reliable special teams created the difference. De’Von Achane’s 83 rushing yards helped establish offensive balance, while Miami’s defense changed the game with two interceptions.

The matchup showed the importance of protecting the football, creating explosive plays, and executing during important moments. While Tampa Bay won several statistical categories, Miami’s ability to convert opportunities into points ultimately secured the victory.