The long-standing rivalry between the Miami Dolphins and the Buffalo Bills has produced some of the most intense and unforgettable moments in AFC history. Every time these two franchises collide, the matchup becomes more than just a regular-season game—it becomes a statement of dominance, strategy, and star-power execution. This year’s clash once again lived up to the hype, offering fans an electrifying contest filled with explosive offense, strategic defense, and standout individual performances. In this comprehensive breakdown, we dive deep into the Miami Dolphins vs Buffalo Bills match player stats, highlighting not only the numbers but also the narratives they shaped throughout the game.
A High-Intensity Match With High-Impact Performances
From the opening kickoff, it was clear that both teams came prepared to assert their strengths. Buffalo entered the game with one of the league’s most balanced offensive units, while Miami showcased its signature speed-driven attack that has become a hallmark under head coach Mike McDaniel. The result was a dynamic, back-and-forth contest where player stats told the story of resilience, execution, and moments of pure brilliance.
Quarterback Comparison: Precision vs. Playmaking
Josh Allen – Buffalo Bills
Josh Allen once again proved why he is considered one of the NFL’s elite quarterbacks. His performance was a blend of powerful arm talent, decisive rushing, and situational awareness.
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Passing: Allen delivered a sharp passing display, completing a high percentage of his attempts. His intermediate throws were particularly effective, carving up the Dolphins’ secondary with precision.
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Rushing: True to form, Allen took advantage of open lanes, extending drives with key scrambles and designed runs.
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Touchdowns & Turnovers: Allen’s ability to avoid turnovers in critical moments kept Buffalo’s offense on schedule. His touchdown passes were the result of well-timed reads and exploiting Miami’s mismatches.
Overall, Allen’s stat line reflected the leadership and multi-dimensional threat he brings to every matchup, solidifying his role as the engine of Buffalo’s offense.
Tua Tagovailoa – Miami Dolphins
Tua Tagovailoa showcased why he leads one of the most explosive passing units in the NFL. His timing, anticipation, and quick release were on full display.
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Passing Efficiency: Tua completed a high percentage of throws, excelling in quick-strike situations designed to get the ball into the hands of his playmakers.
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Deep Attempts: While not known for an overwhelming deep ball, Tua connected on several important chunk plays, using timing and accuracy rather than sheer arm strength.
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Decision-Making: Tua did face moments of pressure from Buffalo’s defensive front, and a few passes into tight windows created high-risk situations. Still, his poise largely kept the offense operating effectively.
The quarterback stats painted a clear contrast: Allen’s physicality and improvisation versus Tua’s timing-based precision. Both approaches delivered strong performances, but Buffalo’s overall balance gave Allen a slight statistical and tactical edge.
Running Game: Ground Efficiency and Red-Zone Impact
Buffalo Bills Running Unit
Buffalo’s running game complemented Allen’s performance perfectly.
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James Cook once again made his presence felt with his acceleration and field vision. His rushing yards after contact demonstrated toughness, while his ability to contribute as a receiver added versatility.
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Short-yardage situations saw Buffalo’s backs convert crucial downs, extending drives and keeping Miami’s defense guessing.
Miami Dolphins Backfield
The Dolphins relied heavily on their speed and run-after-contact opportunities.
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Raheem Mostert and De’Von Achane offered their trademark explosiveness. Their ability to hit the edges and break off chunk gains added a dynamic element to Miami’s offense.
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However, Buffalo’s defense tightened in key spots, limiting Miami’s red-zone rushing efficiency.
The rushing stats showed Buffalo as more consistent and situationally effective, while Miami relied on big-play bursts.
Wide Receiver & Tight End Breakdown: Speed vs. Power
Miami Dolphins Receiving Corps
Miami entered the match with one of the most dangerous receiving duos in the league.
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Tyreek Hill: Hill showcased his unmatched speed and route-running ability. He accumulated significant yards after catch and repeatedly created separation, even against tight coverage.
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Jaylen Waddle: Waddle contributed with crisp routes and key third-down receptions. His agility and ability to find soft spots in zone coverage kept Miami’s chains moving.
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Tight Ends: Although less featured, Miami’s tight ends provided necessary blocking support and occasional short-yardage catches.
Miami’s receiving stats reflected a high-octane aerial attack, though occasional drops and contested-catch struggles limited their full potential.
Buffalo Bills Pass Catchers
Buffalo’s receivers delivered a balanced, physical performance.
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Stefon Diggs: Diggs was the focal point, displaying sharp cuts, great hands, and veteran savvy. His receptions came in high-pressure situations, reinforcing his role as Allen’s go-to target.
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Gabe Davis: Davis contributed with deep-ball plays and physical catches over the middle.
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Dalton Kincaid: Buffalo’s emerging tight end provided security-blanket receptions and added yards after the catch.
Statistically, Buffalo’s receiving unit spread the ball more effectively across multiple players, creating consistent production.
Defensive Highlights: Pass Rush, Tackles, and Turnovers
Defense often dictates momentum, and in this matchup, several defenders on both sides stood out.
Buffalo Bills Defense
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Pass rushers consistently pressured Tua, forcing rushed throws and limiting deep-developing routes.
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Linebackers demonstrated exceptional tackling, preventing Miami’s backs from breaking big plays.
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Secondary players made key pass breakups, especially in the red zone.
The Bills’ defensive stats showed strong discipline and versatility, contributing heavily to their success.
Miami Dolphins Defense
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Edge rushers applied steady pressure on Allen, though his mobility neutralized some of the impact.
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Secondary members faced a tough task against Buffalo’s spread attack but delivered several impressive coverage plays.
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Run defense was inconsistent, allowing Buffalo’s backs to maintain efficient gains.
The Dolphins’ defensive stats reflected moments of strength but also key breakdowns that Buffalo capitalized on.
Special Teams Impact
Both teams’ special teams contributed in subtle but meaningful ways:
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Buffalo executed precise kicking and effective punt coverage.
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Miami produced solid return yardage but struggled to flip field position consistently.
Conclusion
The Miami Dolphins vs Buffalo Bills match showcased exactly why this rivalry remains one of the most exciting in the AFC. From explosive offensive plays to strategic defensive adjustments, both teams delivered performances packed with intensity and skill. The player stats highlight a game defined by contrasting styles—Miami’s blazing speed and timing-based execution versus Buffalo’s balanced attack and physical resilience. While the Bills displayed more consistency across all phases, the Dolphins demonstrated their big-play potential through standout moments from their top playmakers. Ultimately, the matchup reaffirmed the competitive spirit that defines these two franchises and set the stage for even more dramatic battles in future seasons.

