Quick Highlights:
• Buffalo Bills remain unbeaten (3-0) after beating Miami Dolphins 31-21.
• Josh Allen threw 3 TDs and James Cook rushed for 108 yards.
• Terrel Bernard’s late interception sealed the game.
• Miami Dolphins drop to 0-3 for the first time since 2019.
Table of Contents
The latest Bills vs Dolphins clash lived up to its billing on Thursday Night Football. With playoff-like energy already in Week 3, Buffalo leaned on Josh Allen’s sharp passing and a bruising run game to take down Miami 31-21. This was more than just another AFC East battle; it was a statement about where both franchises stand early in the season.
First Half: Trading Blows, No Clear Favorite
Both teams came out firing. Miami answered Buffalo’s early score with a slick drive of their own, powered by Tua Tagovailoa’s precision throws. The first quarter ended deadlocked at 7-7. By halftime, the scoreboard still reflected a stalemate, with the Dolphins keeping pace despite missing key starters.
James Cook became the story on the ground, shredding Miami’s defensive line with burst and patience. His 2-yard TD in the second quarter was not just another score—it snapped Miami’s 36-game streak of not allowing a 100-yard rusher. That single stat says plenty about how Buffalo imposed its will in the trenches.
Third Quarter Surge: Bills Grab Momentum
Buffalo turned up the pressure in the third quarter. Josh Allen found Khalil Shakir on a decisive drive, flipping momentum squarely toward the Bills. Miami’s offense sputtered during this stretch, producing just 37 total yards. A penalty on special teams also shifted field position, handing Buffalo a short field that they didn’t waste.
Fourth Quarter Drama: Dolphins Fight, Bills Shut the Door
With just over seven minutes left, Allen connected again, this time with Stefon Diggs for a dagger touchdown. The Dolphins still had life, though. A big drive brought them into Bills territory with just under four minutes remaining. But linebacker Terrel Bernard made the play of the night—reading Tagovailoa perfectly, snatching the interception, and silencing Miami’s rally.
The crowd roared as Buffalo drained the clock. A late field goal sealed it at 31-21, keeping the Bills’ perfect record intact while leaving Miami searching for answers.
Injury Report & Depth Issues
Miami limped into this one. Without Storm Duck, Ifeatu Melifonwu, and Darren Waller, the Dolphins’ defense looked stretched. Jaylen Waddle did suit up despite shoulder concerns, but clearly wasn’t 100%. The Bills weren’t fully healthy either, missing defensive leaders Matt Milano and Ed Oliver. Buffalo compensated by elevating Zion Logue and Keonta Jenkins from the practice squad, which turned out to be smart depth moves.
Stat Breakdown: Bills vs Dolphins
| Category | Bills | Dolphins |
|---|---|---|
| Total Yards | ~400 | ~300 |
| Passing TDs | 3 (Allen) | 2 (Tagovailoa) |
| Rushing Yards | 128 (Cook 108) | 79 |
| Turnovers | 0 | 1 (INT) |
| Penalties | 4 for 40 yds | 8 for 82 yds |
Graph: Score Progression by Quarter
This chart shows how the scoreboard shifted across all four quarters in the Bills vs Dolphins game:
Historical Context
The Bills have now won 14 of their last 15 regular season games against the Dolphins. For Miami, this 0-3 start mirrors struggles not seen since 2019. Buffalo, meanwhile, continues to look like a genuine contender, controlling both pace and physicality.
Quotes From the Field
“That’s something we had circled from film study,” linebacker Terrel Bernard said of his game-clinching interception. Head coach Sean McDermott praised the team’s composure, noting how they executed in crunch time. Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel admitted, “Too many mistakes, especially late. You can’t give Buffalo those chances.”
What’s Next?
The Bills head into Week 4 looking to maintain momentum, with upcoming tests against division rivals looming. Miami’s focus will be on damage control—reducing penalties, healing injuries, and keeping playoff hopes alive before the season slips away too early.
For more detailed coverage visit NFL.com, ESPN, and Reuters.
FAQs
The Buffalo Bills defeated the Miami Dolphins 31-21 in their latest prime time matchup.
Josh Allen led the Bills with three passing touchdowns, while James Cook rushed for 108 yards.
Miami’s costly penalties in the 4th quarter and Tua Tagovailoa’s late interception sealed their defeat.
The Bills have now won 14 of the last 15 regular-season games against the Dolphins.
The Bills aim to extend their unbeaten streak, while the Dolphins will focus on reducing penalties and regaining form.
