New York Jets vs Miami Dolphins Match Player Stats
The new york jets vs miami dolphins match player stats from December 7, 2025, tell the story of a dominant Miami performance built on efficient rushing, defensive pressure, and three interceptions. The Miami Dolphins defeated the New York Jets 34-10, using a 21-point first quarter to establish control and a productive ground game to maintain their advantage. Although New York recorded more receiving yards than Miami, the Jets struggled to convert their passing production into touchdowns and repeatedly gave the ball away.
The matchup provides a useful example of why football statistics need to be examined together rather than in isolation. Passing yards alone do not explain the result, and total tackles do not necessarily indicate which defense performed better. Miami’s ability to gain yards on the ground, protect the ball through the air, and pressure opposing quarterbacks made the difference across several key categories.
This statistical breakdown examines the final score, quarter-by-quarter scoring, quarterback performances, rushing and receiving leaders, defensive contributions, special teams, and the numbers that explain Miami’s victory. All game statistics in this article are based on the supplied ESPN box score data for the December 7, 2025, contest.
New York Jets vs Miami Dolphins Match Player Stats: Game Overview
The game was a regular-season NFL matchup between two AFC East rivals. Miami entered the contest with a 5-7 record implied by the supplied postgame record of 6-7, while New York stood at 3-10. The result improved Miami’s position to 6-7 and left the Jets at 3-10.
Miami Dolphins Logo PNG SVG, EPS & Vector – Free Download
Miami Dolphins
Postgame record: 6-7
34
File:New York Jets 2024.svg – Wikimedia Commons
New York Jets
Postgame record: 3-10
10
Final score
Miami won by 24
December 7, 2025 | NFL regular season
Final score and team performance
| Statistic | Miami Dolphins | New York Jets |
| Final score | 34 | 10 |
| First-quarter points | 21 | 7 |
| Second-quarter points | 3 | 0 |
| Third-quarter points | 0 | 0 |
| Fourth-quarter points | 10 | 3 |
| Passing yards | 127 | 142 |
| Rushing yards | 239 | 65 |
| Rushing attempts | 41 | 17 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 3 | 0 |
| Passing touchdowns | 1 | 0 |
| Interceptions thrown | 0 | 3 |
| Sacks recorded by defense | 6 | 1 |
The most striking contrast is the rushing production. Miami gained 239 yards on 41 attempts, averaging 5.8 yards per carry. New York managed 65 yards on 17 attempts, averaging 3.8 yards per carry.
That difference gave Miami a much stronger foundation for its offense. The Dolphins could use their running game to move the chains, create scoring opportunities, and reduce the need to rely on difficult passing situations. The Jets, by comparison, lacked a similarly consistent rushing attack.
Miami also won the turnover battle in a decisive way. The Dolphins threw no interceptions, while New York’s quarterbacks combined for three. That difference mattered because every possession lost to an interception limited the Jets’ opportunity to build momentum or reduce the deficit.
Quarter-by-Quarter Scoring Breakdown
The scoring pattern explains how Miami created a lead that New York never seriously threatened to erase.
| Quarter | Miami Dolphins | New York Jets | Miami’s lead |
| First | 21 | 7 | 14 |
| Second | 3 | 0 | 17 |
| Third | 0 | 0 | 17 |
| Fourth | 10 | 3 | 24 |
| Final | 34 | 10 | 24 |
First quarter: Miami establishes control
Miami scored 21 points in the opening quarter, compared with seven for New York. A 14-point lead after one quarter placed the Jets under immediate pressure to respond.
Early deficits often change offensive decision-making. A team trailing by two touchdowns may feel compelled to throw more frequently, attempt longer passes, or take risks that would be less necessary in a close contest. Those adjustments can create opportunities for the opposing defense.
Miami’s early scoring advantage also allowed its offense to maintain a balanced approach. The Dolphins finished with 41 rushing attempts, demonstrating how a productive ground game can support a team that already has a substantial lead.
Second quarter: The Dolphins extend the margin
Miami added three points in the second quarter while keeping New York scoreless. The lead grew to 24-7 at halftime.
The additional field goal was important because it prevented the Jets from making meaningful progress on the scoreboard before the break. New York needed a much stronger second-half performance to return to contention.
Third quarter: Both offenses go scoreless
Neither team scored in the third quarter. Miami maintained its 17-point lead, leaving New York with a difficult final-quarter task.
A scoreless quarter does not automatically mean that both defenses dominated every snap. It can reflect stalled drives, failed conversions, field position, or missed scoring opportunities. The available scoring summary establishes the lack of points but does not, by itself, identify every reason individual drives ended.
Fourth quarter: Miami closes the game
Miami scored 10 more points in the final quarter, while the Jets managed only a field goal. The Dolphins finished with 34 points and a 24-point victory.
The final period confirmed the pattern established early in the game: Miami was more effective at turning possessions into points, while New York could not produce the sustained scoring required for a comeback.
Quarterback Statistics: Tua Tagovailoa vs. New York’s Passing Attack
Quarterback production was one of the defining elements of the contest, but the numbers need context. Miami’s Tua Tagovailoa delivered a controlled performance, while New York had to adjust after Tyrod Taylor left the game with a groin injury.
Tua Tagovailoa’s passing performance
| Statistic | Tua Tagovailoa |
| Completions | 13 |
| Pass attempts | 21 |
| Completion percentage | 61.9% |
| Passing yards | 127 |
| Passing touchdowns | 1 |
| Interceptions | 0 |
| Yards per attempt | 6.0 |
| Sacks taken | 1 |
| Sack yardage lost | 8 |
| Passer rating | 94.7 |
| ESPN QBR | 18.2 |
Tagovailoa completed 13 of 21 passes for 127 yards and one touchdown without throwing an interception. His touchdown pass connected with Jaylen Waddle for a three-yard score on Miami’s opening possession.
His passing total was modest compared with some high-volume NFL performances, but the Dolphins did not need him to throw for 300 yards. The running game supplied the bulk of the offense’s production, and the defense created opportunities through turnovers and quarterback pressure.
This is an important distinction when interpreting quarterback statistics. Passing volume is not the same as offensive effectiveness. A quarterback can produce a winning performance by making timely completions, avoiding interceptions, and allowing a productive running game to carry a larger share of the workload.
Tagovailoa’s 94.7 passer rating supports the view that he protected the football and delivered a touchdown. However, his ESPN QBR of 18.2 was considerably lower. These two metrics use different calculations and should not be treated as interchangeable measurements of performance.
The available numbers also show that Tagovailoa was sacked once for eight yards. Miami therefore avoided the repeated negative plays that affected the Jets’ passing attack.
Tyrod Taylor’s limited appearance
| Statistic | Tyrod Taylor |
| Completions | 1 |
| Attempts | 4 |
| Completion percentage | 25.0% |
| Passing yards | 6 |
| Passing touchdowns | 0 |
| Interceptions | 1 |
| Passer rating | 0.0 |
| ESPN QBR | 0.0 |
Taylor completed one of four passes for six yards before leaving with a groin injury. His interception gave Miami another opportunity to build its early advantage.
The interception was especially damaging because it occurred while the Dolphins were already moving the ball effectively. Rather than giving New York’s offense time to settle into the game, the turnover contributed to Miami’s continued first-quarter momentum.
Taylor’s limited sample matters when assessing his individual performance. Four attempts are not enough to draw broad conclusions about his overall ability or how he would have performed over a full game. The more meaningful takeaway is that his departure forced New York to rely on its rookie backup earlier than expected.
Brady Cook’s difficult NFL debut
| Statistic | Brady Cook |
| Completions | 14 |
| Attempts | 30 |
| Completion percentage | 46.7% |
| Passing yards | 163 |
| Passing touchdowns | 0 |
| Interceptions | 2 |
| Yards per attempt | 5.4 |
| Sacks taken | 6 |
| Sack yardage lost | 27 |
| Passer rating | 35.8 |
| ESPN QBR | 5.9 |
Cook completed 14 of 30 passes for 163 yards and threw two interceptions. He was also sacked six times for a loss of 27 yards.
The rookie’s performance illustrates the challenges of entering an NFL game without the benefit of a normal starting preparation cycle. Once Taylor left, Cook had to operate against a defense that had already established its physical presence.
The six sacks are particularly revealing. A sack does not always fall entirely on a quarterback because protection breakdowns, defensive schemes, and coverage can all contribute. Still, six sacks indicate that New York repeatedly struggled to protect its passer or find a timely solution against Miami’s rush.
Cook’s 5.4 yards per attempt also suggests that the Jets struggled to generate efficient passing production. His 163 passing yards may appear respectable in isolation, but the two interceptions, zero passing touchdowns, and frequent sacks significantly reduced the value of that yardage.
The supplied box score also lists a 35.8 passer rating and a 5.9 QBR. These figures reinforce the difference between accumulating passing yards and sustaining successful drives.
What the quarterback comparison reveals
The contrast between the two teams is clearer when the statistics are considered together.
- Ball security: Tagovailoa threw no interceptions, while Taylor and Cook combined for three.
- Protection: Miami allowed one sack, compared with six surrendered by New York.
- Scoring: Tagovailoa threw one touchdown pass, while the Jets’ quarterbacks combined for none.
- Efficiency: Miami paired its passing game with a highly productive rushing attack, reducing the pressure on its quarterback to carry the offense.
- Game management: The Dolphins could remain balanced after taking an early lead, while New York had to attempt a more difficult comeback.
The lesson is not that a quarterback must always produce a high passing total to win. It is that passing efficiency, turnover avoidance, and protection can become more valuable than raw yardage when a team has a strong running game and a lead to defend.
Rushing Statistics: Miami’s Biggest Advantage
The rushing numbers provide the clearest explanation for Miami’s offensive success.
| Rushing statistic | Miami Dolphins | New York Jets |
| Attempts | 41 | 17 |
| Rushing yards | 239 | 65 |
| Average per carry | 5.8 | 3.8 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 3 | 0 |
| Longest recorded rush | 39 yards | 19 yards |
Miami gained 174 more rushing yards than New York. The Dolphins also recorded three rushing touchdowns, while the Jets failed to score on the ground.
That combination made it difficult for New York to control the tempo. Miami could repeatedly return to the running game, while the Jets struggled to create the same level of consistency.
Jaylen Wright leads Miami with 107 rushing yards
| Statistic | Jaylen Wright |
| Carries | 24 |
| Rushing yards | 107 |
| Average per carry | 4.5 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 1 |
| Longest rush | 12 yards |
Wright was Miami’s leading rusher, finishing with 107 yards on 24 carries and a touchdown. His average of 4.5 yards per attempt reflects steady production over a substantial workload.
His contribution became particularly important after De’Von Achane left the game with a rib injury in the second quarter. Wright took on a larger role and helped Miami maintain its offensive identity.
Wright’s performance was valuable for three reasons.
First, he kept the running game productive after a key player exited. A team that loses its leading explosive threat can quickly become predictable, especially if it must rely more heavily on its passing attack. Wright helped prevent that outcome.
Second, his 24 carries allowed Miami to sustain its commitment to running the ball. Consistent rushing attempts can help an offense remain on schedule, reduce the frequency of obvious passing situations, and limit the opposing defense’s opportunities to attack the quarterback.
Third, Wright scored a touchdown. Yardage helps move the offense toward the end zone, but finishing a drive with six points is what changes the scoreboard.
His 107-yard performance was a career high according to the official game recap. It was one of the most important individual contributions in the matchup.
De’Von Achane delivers explosive rushing production
| Statistic | De’Von Achane |
| Carries | 7 |
| Rushing yards | 92 |
| Average per carry | 13.1 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 1 |
| Longest rush | 39 yards |
| Receiving yards | 13 |
Achane produced 92 rushing yards on only seven carries, averaging 13.1 yards per attempt. He also scored a rushing touchdown.
That average was far higher than Wright’s, but the two performances served different purposes. Achane supplied explosive gains, while Wright provided a larger volume of carries and helped sustain the attack.
Achane’s longest run went for 39 yards in the supplied statistical data. The official team recap describes a 39-yard burst that helped set up Miami’s opening touchdown sequence. The official play-by-play separately lists his 13-yard touchdown run.
Achane left the game in the second quarter after suffering a rib injury. The Dolphins did not need to bring him back because Wright continued to produce.
His seven carries demonstrate why rushing averages should always be read alongside attempt totals. Achane’s explosive runs significantly increased his average, but Wright’s 24 carries show how much of the workload he handled across the game.
Ollie Gordon II adds another touchdown
| Statistic | Ollie Gordon II |
| Carries | 5 |
| Rushing yards | 17 |
| Average per carry | 3.4 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 1 |
| Longest rush | 12 yards |
Gordon finished with 17 yards on five carries and scored a touchdown in the fourth quarter. His seven-yard scoring run pushed Miami’s lead to 31-10.
Although his rushing average was lower than Wright’s and Achane’s, Gordon’s touchdown had clear scoreboard value. It restored Miami’s three-score advantage after New York had reduced the margin to 24-10.
This is an example of why rushing efficiency and situational production are different measures. A back can have a modest average while still making an important contribution near the goal line.
Jaylen Waddle contributes on the ground
Waddle’s role extended beyond receiving. He recorded one rushing attempt for 21 yards, averaging 21.0 yards on that carry.
A wide receiver receiving a rushing attempt can force a defense to account for additional possibilities. Even when such plays are used sparingly, they can create uncertainty about where the ball will go and which defenders must respond.
Waddle’s rushing contribution was small in volume but added to Miami’s overall ground production.
Breece Hall struggles to find running room
| Statistic | Breece Hall |
| Carries | 14 |
| Rushing yards | 43 |
| Average per carry | 3.1 |
| Rushing touchdowns | 0 |
| Longest rush | 11 yards |
| Receiving yards | 0 |
Hall led New York in rushing attempts, carrying the ball 14 times for 43 yards. His average of 3.1 yards per carry was below the team average of 3.8.
The problem was not simply the absence of a big run. Hall did not score a rushing touchdown, and his workload produced less than 50 yards.
For an offense facing an early deficit, that limited rushing production creates a difficult tactical situation. The team must rely more heavily on passing to move the ball, giving the defense additional opportunities to pressure the quarterback.
Miami’s success against Hall also helped prevent New York from using the ground game to relieve pressure on its passing attack.
Isaiah Davis provides a brief spark
Davis recorded two carries for 22 yards, averaging 11.0 yards per attempt. His longest rush was 19 yards.
Those numbers suggest that Davis found more room on his limited opportunities than Hall did. However, two carries are too small a sample to establish that Davis would have been more effective over a full workload.
The broader issue was that New York did not generate enough total rushing production. Even with Davis’ contribution, the Jets finished with only 65 team rushing yards and no rushing touchdowns.
Receiving Statistics: Jaylen Waddle Leads Miami
Receiving statistics add another layer to the game. New York recorded more receiving yards in the supplied data, but Miami was more successful at converting its passing opportunities into points.
Miami Dolphins receiving leaders
| Player | Receptions | Receiving yards | Average per catch | Touchdowns |
| Jaylen Waddle | 5 | 50 | 10.0 | 1 |
| Greg Dulcich | 3 | 41 | 13.7 | 0 |
| Darren Waller | 1 | 13 | 13.0 | 0 |
| De’Von Achane | 1 | 13 | 13.0 | 0 |
| Malik Washington | 3 | 10 | 3.3 | 0 |
Jaylen Waddle’s touchdown sets the tone
Waddle finished with five receptions for 50 yards and one touchdown. His three-yard touchdown catch from Tagovailoa opened the scoring.
That early connection was important because it rewarded Miami’s opening drive and immediately placed New York under pressure. The Dolphins did not need a long passing touchdown to establish control. They needed a successful opening possession and a reliable finish in the red zone.
Waddle’s contribution also included 21 rushing yards on one carry, giving him 71 combined rushing and receiving yards based on the supplied individual statistics.
His performance demonstrates how a receiver can affect a game without recording an unusually high yardage total. A touchdown on the opening drive can shape the opponent’s strategy for the remainder of the contest.
Greg Dulcich supplies secondary receiving production
Dulcich recorded three receptions for 41 yards, averaging 13.7 yards per catch. He was Miami’s second-leading receiver by yardage in the supplied data.
His production gave Tagovailoa another option beyond Waddle. When an offense has multiple players capable of making useful catches, the defense has fewer opportunities to concentrate exclusively on the primary receiver.
Dulcich did not score a touchdown, but his 41 yards contributed to Miami’s ability to sustain drives and complement the running game.
Darren Waller and De’Von Achane contribute underneath
Waller recorded one reception for 13 yards, while Achane added one catch for 13 yards. Both players provided short passing options that complemented Miami’s ground-based approach.
Achane’s receiving contribution is especially useful when evaluating his overall offensive involvement. His rushing production attracted attention, but his ability to contribute as a receiver also gave Miami another way to use him.
Malik Washington finished with three catches for 10 yards. While the average was low, his receptions gave Miami additional completed passes and helped spread the workload across the receiving group.
New York Jets receiving leaders
| Player | Receptions | Receiving yards | Average per catch | Touchdowns |
| Mason Taylor | 5 | 51 | 10.2 | 0 |
| John Metchie III | 4 | 34 | 8.5 | 0 |
| Adonai Mitchell | 1 | 24 | 24.0 | 0 |
| Isaiah Williams | 2 | 24 | 12.0 | 0 |
| Jeremy Ruckert | 2 | 19 | 9.5 | 0 |
| Andrew Beck | 1 | 17 | 17.0 | 0 |
Mason Taylor leads New York in receiving
Taylor led the Jets with five receptions for 51 yards. He was one of the team’s most frequently involved receiving options, although his production did not result in a touchdown.
His five catches helped New York gain passing yards, but the Jets struggled to turn those completions into scoring opportunities. This highlights a central difference between receiving statistics and offensive output.
A receiver can make productive catches while the offense as a whole struggles with protection, turnovers, and the number of successful drives it can complete.
The official game recap reported that Taylor had a stinger during the contest. His individual statistics remain useful for assessing his receiving contribution, but the injury is relevant context when reviewing his role.
John Metchie III and Adonai Mitchell
Metchie recorded four receptions for 34 yards, giving New York a dependable secondary receiving contribution by catch volume.
Mitchell had one reception for 24 yards. His 24.0-yard average was the highest among the listed Jets receivers, but it came from a single catch.
This is another case where averages require context. Mitchell produced a useful gain, yet one reception cannot compensate on its own for three interceptions, six sacks, and a lack of offensive touchdowns.
Isaiah Williams also recorded two catches for 24 yards. His biggest contribution, however, came on special teams rather than through the passing game.
Why more receiving yards did not mean a better offensive performance
The supplied team statistics list Miami with 127 passing yards and New York with 169 gross passing yards. New York’s 169 gross passing yards include the yardage recorded before subtracting sack losses. After 27 yards lost on sacks, the Jets finished with 142 net passing yards.
That distinction matters when comparing team totals. Gross passing yards describe the passing production before sack losses, while net passing yards account for the impact of sacks.
New York’s higher receiving production did not translate into offensive success because the Jets failed to score a passing touchdown and threw three interceptions. Miami’s passing game, meanwhile, produced an early touchdown and operated alongside a far more productive rushing attack.
The better comparison is therefore not just which team passed for more yards, but which offense produced points, protected the ball, and sustained its drives.
Defensive Player Statistics: Miami’s Pressure Changes the Game
Miami’s defense was one of the strongest factors behind the 34-10 victory. The Dolphins recorded six sacks, intercepted three passes, and disrupted New York’s ability to sustain drives.
The Jets’ defense, by comparison, recorded one sack and allowed Miami to accumulate 239 rushing yards. New York did make individual defensive contributions, but it could not consistently stop the Dolphins’ balanced attack.
Miami Dolphins defensive leaders
| Player | Total tackles | Sacks | Tackles for loss | Quarterback hits | Interceptions |
| Zach Sieler | 4 | 2.5 | 1 | 3 | 0 |
| Ifeatu Melifonwu | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Willie Gay Jr. | 3 | 1 | 1 | 1 | 0 |
| Jordyn Brooks | 5 | 0 | 1 | Not listed | 0 |
| Tyrel Dodson | 3 | 0 | 2 | Not listed | 1 |
| Minkah Fitzpatrick | 4 | 0 | 0 | Not listed | 0 |
| Ashtyn Davis | 6 | 0 | 0 | Not listed | 0 |
| Rasul Douglas | Not specified in supplied defensive row | 0 | Not listed | Not listed | 1 |
| Ethan Bonner | Not specified in supplied defensive row | 0 | Not listed | Not listed | 1 |
The individual defensive figures above follow the supplied player-by-player data. The team totals establish six sacks, seven tackles for loss, nine passes defended, and eight quarterback hits. Where an individual value was not clearly supplied, it is not inferred.
Zach Sieler leads the pass rush
Sieler recorded 2.5 sacks, one tackle for loss, and three quarterback hits. His performance was particularly important against a Jets offense that was forced to use rookie quarterback Brady Cook for much of the game.
Repeated quarterback pressure makes passing more difficult in several ways. It can shorten the time available to read coverage, disrupt the timing between receivers and quarterback, and push an offense into unfavorable down-and-distance situations.
Sieler’s production was part of a broader defensive effort rather than an isolated achievement. Miami finished with six sacks, meaning the pressure came from multiple defensive contributors.
The result was a difficult environment for New York’s offense. Cook had to make decisions under pressure while attempting to overcome a large deficit, and the Dolphins continued to limit the Jets’ ability to generate scoring drives.
Miami’s three interceptions prove decisive
Miami intercepted three passes, with Rasul Douglas, Tyrel Dodson, and Ethan Bonner each credited with one interception in the supplied statistics.
The timing of these turnovers made them especially valuable.
Dodson intercepted a pass from Taylor in the first quarter, helping Miami maintain its early momentum. Douglas intercepted Cook near the goal line before halftime, preventing New York from converting a promising possession into points. Bonner recorded a late interception in the end zone, ending a Jets scoring threat.
These plays demonstrate why interceptions should be evaluated by more than their total. A turnover that ends a potential scoring drive can be worth far more to the result than an interception that occurs when the outcome is already settled.
Miami’s defense did not need to score a defensive touchdown to make its turnovers valuable. By preventing New York from completing drives, the unit protected the lead and forced the Jets to keep chasing points.
Jordyn Brooks contributes across the defense
Brooks recorded five total tackles and one tackle for loss. His numbers reflect involvement in stopping the Jets’ offense, even though he did not record a sack or interception in the supplied data.
Linebackers often influence a game through a combination of tackling, pursuit, coverage responsibilities, and run defense. A box score cannot capture every assignment, but tackles for loss provide a useful indication that a defender helped disrupt a play before it developed fully.
Brooks’ contribution complemented Miami’s work along the defensive front and helped the team control New York’s limited rushing production.
Ifeatu Melifonwu and Willie Gay Jr. add pressure
Melifonwu recorded one sack, one tackle for loss, and one quarterback hit. Gay also recorded one sack and one tackle for loss, along with a pass defended and a quarterback hit.
Their contributions show how defensive pressure can be distributed across a unit. When multiple players can win individual matchups, the offense has fewer opportunities to identify and neutralize one particular threat.
Melifonwu also recorded a critical fourth-down sack late in the contest, according to the official game recap. That play helped end another New York possession.
New York Jets defensive leaders
| Player | Total tackles | Sacks | Tackles for loss | Passes defended |
| Jamien Sherwood | 15 | 0 | 1 | 2 |
| Isaiah Oliver | 9 | 0 | Not listed | 2 |
| Malachi Moore | 7 | 0 | Not listed | Not listed |
| Quincy Williams | 7 | 1 | 1 | Not listed |
| Kiko Mauigoa | 6 | 0 | Not listed | Not listed |
| Micheal Clemons | 5 | 0 | 1 | Not listed |
| Jowon Briggs | 4 | 0 | 1 | Not listed |
Sherwood led the listed Jets defenders with 15 total tackles. Oliver recorded nine, while Moore and Quincy Williams each had seven.
High tackle totals often reflect substantial defensive involvement, but they do not necessarily mean a player had a dominant game. Defenders on a team that spends long periods without the ball can accumulate tackles simply because they face more plays.
That context is important here. Miami controlled possession for 36 minutes and seven seconds, compared with 23 minutes and 53 seconds for New York. The Jets’ defense had to deal with a productive rushing attack and repeated scoring drives, increasing the number of opportunities to make tackles.
Quincy Williams recorded New York’s lone sack in the supplied team statistics. The Jets also recorded seven tackles for loss, showing that they created some negative plays despite struggling to stop Miami overall.
The problem was consistency. New York’s defense did not create enough stops to prevent Miami from scoring 34 points.
Special Teams Statistics: Isaiah Williams Provides New York’s Highlight
Special teams produced one of the Jets’ most memorable moments and helped keep the score from becoming even more one-sided in the first quarter.
Isaiah Williams’ 78-yard punt return touchdown
Isaiah Williams returned a punt 78 yards for a touchdown with 20 seconds remaining in the first quarter. The score reduced Miami’s lead from 21-0 to 21-7.
The return was a major individual play because it produced seven points without requiring the Jets’ offense to complete a single pass or run a conventional offensive play.
It also showed that New York could generate explosive plays outside its regular offensive structure. Unfortunately for the Jets, that momentum did not translate into a sustained comeback.
Williams finished with three punt returns for 91 yards, averaging 30.3 yards per return, according to the supplied statistics. His longest return was the 78-yard touchdown.
He also returned two kickoffs for 69 yards, averaging 34.5 yards per return.
Kick return comparison
| Statistic | Miami Dolphins | New York Jets |
| Kick returns | 3 | 3 |
| Kick return yards | 76 | 102 |
| Average per return | 25.3 | 34.0 |
| Longest kick return | 26 yards | 38 yards |
| Kick return touchdowns | 0 | 0 |
New York averaged more yards per kickoff return, gaining 34.0 yards compared with Miami’s 25.3.
However, kickoff return averages are only one part of special teams performance. Field position matters, but a team must still convert favorable starting positions into productive offensive drives.
The Jets did not turn their better average into an overall advantage because their offense struggled with turnovers, sacks, and an inability to score touchdowns.
Punt return comparison
| Statistic | Miami Dolphins | New York Jets |
| Punt returns | 2 | 3 |
| Punt return yards | 32 | 91 |
| Average per return | 16.0 | 30.3 |
| Longest return | 17 yards | 78 yards |
| Punt return touchdowns | 0 | 1 |
New York held a clear advantage in punt return production. Williams’ touchdown was the most dramatic special teams play of the game.
Miami, however, did not need to win every statistical category. Its offensive and defensive advantages were large enough to overcome New York’s stronger return numbers.
Kicking statistics
| Statistic | Riley Patterson, Miami | Nick Folk, New York |
| Field goals made | 2 | 1 |
| Field goals attempted | 2 | 1 |
| Field goal percentage | 100% | 100% |
| Longest field goal | 53 yards | 31 yards |
| Extra points made | 4 | 1 |
| Extra points attempted | 4 | 1 |
| Total points | 10 | 4 |
Patterson made both of his field goals, including a 53-yard kick in the fourth quarter. He also converted all four extra-point attempts and finished with 10 points.
Folk made his only field goal, a 31-yard attempt, and converted his extra point. He finished with four points.
Patterson’s longer field goal extended Miami’s lead to 34-10. That score was the final scoring play of the game.
Punting statistics
| Statistic | Jake Bailey, Miami | Austin McNamara, New York |
| Punts | 6 | 6 |
| Total punting yards | 259 | 326 |
| Average per punt | 43.2 | 54.3 |
| Longest punt | 58 yards | 72 yards |
| Inside the 20 | 1 | 2 |
| Touchbacks | 0 | 2 |
McNamara averaged 54.3 yards per punt, compared with Bailey’s 43.2. New York also had two punts downed inside the 20-yard line, compared with one for Miami.
These figures indicate that the Jets had a stronger average punting performance. However, punting numbers must be interpreted in relation to field position and the circumstances of each possession.
A long punt can help a defense by forcing the opponent to travel farther. Yet it cannot compensate fully for an offense that repeatedly gives away the ball or fails to reach the end zone.
Team Statistics That Explain the 34-10 Result
Individual performances matter, but team statistics help explain why the final score was so one-sided.
| Team statistic | Miami Dolphins | New York Jets |
| Total net yards | 358 | 207 |
| Net passing yards | 119 | 142 |
| Rushing yards | 239 | 65 |
| First downs | 23 | 12 |
| Total plays | 63 | 57 |
| Time of possession | 36:07 | 23:53 |
| Third-down conversions | 2 of 10 | 1 of 12 |
| Sacks allowed | 1 | 6 |
| Interceptions thrown | 0 | 3 |
| Penalties | 5 | 6 |
| Penalty yards | 54 | 50 |
| Field goals made | 2 | 1 |
The team totals show that Miami finished with 358 net yards, while New York recorded 207. Miami also produced 23 first downs, almost twice the Jets’ total of 12.
The biggest difference was the ground game, but time of possession also stands out. Miami controlled the ball for more than 12 additional minutes, giving its defense more time to recover and limiting the Jets’ offensive opportunities.
Rushing efficiency created a more balanced offense
Miami’s 239 rushing yards allowed the Dolphins to move the ball without depending entirely on Tagovailoa’s passing.
This balance is useful for several reasons. A productive rushing attack can keep an offense out of long-yardage situations, force defenders to respect the run, and create opportunities for play-action passes. It can also help protect a lead by keeping the clock moving.
New York’s 65 rushing yards offered none of those advantages at the same scale. The Jets had fewer ways to relieve pressure on Cook, and the Dolphins could attack the passing game with greater confidence.
Turnovers changed the value of each possession
The Jets’ three interceptions were among the most damaging statistics in the matchup.
Possessions are limited in an NFL game. When a team throws an interception, it loses the chance to continue its own drive and gives the opponent an opportunity to take control. The impact is greater when the turnover occurs in scoring territory or when the game is still within reach.
Miami’s defense turned New York’s passing struggles into repeated possession changes. Meanwhile, Tagovailoa avoided interceptions, allowing the Dolphins to preserve their offensive opportunities.
Third-down performance limited the Jets
Miami converted two of 10 third-down attempts, while New York converted one of 12.
Neither team was especially productive by this measure, but Miami’s stronger rushing performance, early scoring, and defensive takeaways helped it overcome its own modest third-down conversion rate.
New York’s one conversion in 12 attempts reflects a serious difficulty sustaining drives. When a team repeatedly fails on third down, it is more likely to punt or lose possession before reaching the scoring area.
This statistic also helps explain why the Jets’ receiving yardage did not lead to more points. Individual completions are useful, but the offense must generate enough successful plays in sequence to convert possessions into touchdowns.
Possession time reflects the game’s overall pattern
Miami’s 36:07 of possession compared with New York’s 23:53 was consistent with the Dolphins’ control of the game.
Possession time is not a direct measure of quality. A team can hold the ball for a long time without scoring, while another can score quickly on explosive plays. In this matchup, however, the possession advantage came alongside more first downs, substantially more rushing yards, and a 24-point victory.
The combined evidence makes the conclusion stronger than any single statistic could.
Key Turning Points in the Dolphins vs. Jets Game
The final score was the result of several important sequences rather than one isolated performance. The opening quarter, the early interception, Miami’s response after halftime, and the Jets’ inability to turn promising possessions into touchdowns all shaped the outcome.
1. Miami’s opening touchdown
Tagovailoa connected with Waddle for a three-yard touchdown to complete Miami’s opening scoring drive. The Dolphins immediately established that they could move the ball through the air and finish a possession inside the red zone.
The touchdown also forced New York to respond rather than dictate the pace. Miami’s subsequent rushing scores made the opening stretch even more damaging for the Jets.
2. Achane’s rushing touchdown
Achane scored on a 13-yard run to extend Miami’s lead to 14-0. The play demonstrated the explosive potential of the Dolphins’ running game.
His later departure through injury created a challenge, but Wright’s performance meant Miami did not lose its ground-game advantage.
3. Dodson’s interception
Dodson’s interception of Taylor helped Miami retain control during the opening quarter. The turnover was especially costly because it prevented New York from developing an offensive rhythm.
Interceptions can have a compounding effect. A team loses its possession, the defense has to return to the field, and the offense may begin pressing to make up the lost opportunity. Miami’s early lead made those consequences even more significant for the Jets.
4. Isaiah Williams’ punt return touchdown
Williams’ 78-yard punt return was New York’s biggest positive moment. It cut the deficit to 21-7 and demonstrated the Jets’ ability to score without relying on their struggling offense.
The score did not change the overall direction of the game, but it prevented Miami from completing a scoreless first quarter against New York.
5. Douglas’ interception before halftime
Douglas intercepted Cook near the goal line, ending a Jets possession that could have produced additional points.
The play was important because New York needed to capitalize on its limited opportunities. Instead, Miami preserved its advantage and entered the second half with a 24-7 lead.
6. Gordon’s fourth-quarter touchdown
After Folk’s field goal reduced Miami’s lead to 24-10, the Dolphins answered with a nine-play, 67-yard drive. Gordon finished the possession with a seven-yard rushing touchdown.
That response effectively ended New York’s hopes of a comeback. Miami then added Patterson’s 53-yard field goal to establish the final 34-10 margin.
What the Statistics Reveal About Both Teams
The box score offers several broader lessons about offensive balance, defensive pressure, and the limits of individual statistics.
Miami’s running back depth proved valuable
Achane’s explosive production helped Miami establish an early advantage, but Wright’s 107 yards and Gordon’s touchdown showed the value of having multiple backs ready to contribute.
A team that can maintain its running game after an injury has more options for adjusting its offensive plan. Miami did not need to abandon its identity or force Tagovailoa into a high-volume passing performance.
The Jets needed better protection and ball security
New York’s three interceptions and six sacks allowed were a damaging combination. Each issue made the other more difficult to overcome.
When an offense falls behind, it often needs to pass more frequently. If the quarterback is also under heavy pressure, the chances of failed plays and turnovers can rise. New York faced that challenge for much of the game.
Better protection alone would not necessarily have guaranteed a different result, but it could have given the Jets more time to develop passing plays and sustain drives.
Special teams offered New York a bright spot
Williams’ punt return touchdown and the Jets’ better kickoff return average were meaningful positives. Their punting average was also higher than Miami’s.
These contributions show that New York was not completely ineffective in every phase. The problem was that special teams success could not overcome the gap in offensive production and defensive pressure.
Miami won through complementary football
Miami’s victory was built on the interaction between its offense, defense, and special teams.
The offense scored early and ran effectively. The defense created turnovers and recorded six sacks. Special teams contributed reliable kicking, while the offense maintained enough possession to keep the Jets from mounting a serious comeback.
That combination is more informative than simply noting that Miami won by 24 points. It identifies the mechanisms behind the victory and the areas that New York would have needed to improve.
Where to Verify the Official Box Score
For readers who want to check individual statistics, scoring plays, and the full game record, the ESPN box score for Dolphins vs. Jets on December 7, 2025 provides the relevant game record.
The official figures should be treated as the reference point when comparing this matchup with other games. Differences between passing yards and net passing yards, for example, can create apparent discrepancies when statistics are copied from different summaries.
The figures discussed here follow the supplied box score data, with context drawn from the reported game recap. The game-specific analysis is focused on this December 7 contest rather than combining statistics from different meetings between the two teams.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What was the final score of the New York Jets vs Miami Dolphins game?
The Miami Dolphins defeated the New York Jets 34-10 on December 7, 2025. Miami scored 21 points in the first quarter and maintained its advantage throughout the game.
2. Who was the leading rusher in the game?
Jaylen Wright led all rushers with 107 yards on 24 carries and one touchdown. De’Von Achane added 92 rushing yards and a touchdown on only seven carries.
3. How did Tua Tagovailoa perform against the Jets?
Tagovailoa completed 13 of 21 passes for 127 yards and one touchdown without throwing an interception. He also took one sack for an eight-yard loss.
4. How many interceptions did the Dolphins record?
Miami recorded three interceptions. Rasul Douglas, Tyrel Dodson, and Ethan Bonner each recorded one, helping the Dolphins disrupt New York’s passing attack.
5. Who scored the Jets’ only touchdown?
Isaiah Williams scored New York’s touchdown on a 78-yard punt return late in the first quarter. The play reduced Miami’s lead to 21-7.
6. What was the biggest statistical difference between the teams?
Rushing production was the clearest difference. Miami gained 239 rushing yards and scored three rushing touchdowns, while New York managed 65 rushing yards and no rushing touchdowns. The Dolphins also recorded six sacks and three interceptions.
Conclusion
The December 7, 2025, matchup between the Miami Dolphins and New York Jets showed how rushing efficiency, quarterback protection, and turnover control can determine an NFL result. Miami’s 34-10 victory was built on a 21-point first quarter, 239 rushing yards, three rushing touchdowns, and a defense that recorded six sacks and three interceptions.
Jaylen Wright led the rushing attack with 107 yards, while De’Von Achane supplied explosive gains and another touchdown. Tagovailoa completed a touchdown pass to Waddle and avoided interceptions. For New York, Brady Cook’s two interceptions and six sacks allowed reflected the difficulties of an offense forced to play from behind after Taylor’s injury.
The Jets did produce a memorable special teams touchdown through Isaiah Williams, and their receiving and return statistics contained some positive individual performances. However, those contributions were not enough to overcome Miami’s control of the ground game and its greater success at protecting possessions.
Ultimately, the new york jets vs miami dolphins match player stats show why football analysis requires more than a comparison of passing yards or individual tackle totals. The most meaningful explanation comes from considering scoring, rushing efficiency, turnovers, sacks, and possession together. In this game, those combined indicators clearly favored Miami.
