The Miami Dolphins' first-team offense, led by quarterback Malik Willis, orchestrated a 14-play, 93 yard touchdown drive in their preseason opener against the Washington Commanders.
The Dolphins played their starters in the exhibition game at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland. Willis was 4 of 5 for 43 yards against the Washington second-team defense. Running back De'Von Achane had seven carries for 39 yards and punched in a 1-yard touchdown behind the starting left side of the Miami offensive line.
Rookie wide receiver Caleb Douglas made a highlight-reel catch during the initial series. Douglas hauled in a 28-yard pass from Willis with one hand as he fought through pass interference from the Commanders' Antonio Hamilton Sr. The Dolphins started the series backed up at their own 7-yard line due to running back Jaylen Wright mulling the opening kickoff.
The Dolphins' first-team offense was accompanied by the starting left side of the Miami offensive line, which consisted of Patrick Paul, Kadyn Proctor, Aaron Brewer, Jonah Savaiinaea, and Austin Jackson. Tight end Will Kacmarek and fullback DJ Herman also started alongside Willis and Achane.
Dolphins defensive starters included Chop Robinson, Josh Uche, Kenneth Grant, Jordan Phillips, Trey Moore, Tyrel Dodson, Willie Gay, Chris Johnson, Jason Marshall Jr., Zayne Anderson, Michael Taaffe, and Johnson, the rookie cornerback, who was in uniform pregame after missing Wednesday's joint practice for unknown reasons.
The Commanders did not play most starters in Friday's exhibition, with quarterback Jayden Daniels, running backs Jacory Croskey-Merritt and Rachaad White, wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs, left tackle Laremy Tunsil, defensive linemen Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw, linebackers Odafe Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson, and Frankie Luvu, and their entire starting secondary sitting out.
The Commanders' decision to rest most starters raises questions about their preparation for the upcoming season. With many key players not participating in the exhibition, the team may face challenges in terms of chemistry and cohesion when the regular season begins.
The Dolphins will continue their preseason schedule, with their next game against the Baltimore Ravens on August 20. The outcome of the preseason opener against the Commanders will likely have little impact on the regular season, but it will provide valuable experience for the team's young players.
Source: Yahoo Sports