Dolphins Blow Late Lead Again Against the Chargers
Another Sunday. Another heartbreak for Miami. The Dolphins looked poised to escape this one. Trailing 26–20 late, they battled back. De’Von Achane’s ground game kept them alive. Tua Tagovailoa engineered a go-ahead score to Darren Waller with 46 seconds remaining. For a moment, it seemed like the script had changed. The narrative won’t let them off easy.
What happened next? A lightning-fast sequence turned the tide. After Miami took a 27–26 lead, the Chargers answered in kind. Nyheim Hines returned the ensuing kickoff 40 yards, setting up prime field position. Then Herbert, faced with pressure, escaped a sack and connected with Ladd McConkey for 42 yards — placing L.A. within field goal range. Cameron Dicker calmly nailed his fifth kick of the game as time expired. Derwin James Jr. added the final dagger, intercepting Tua Tagovailoa’s last throw. The Dolphins fell, 29–27.
It’s not just losing — it’s losing too often in the final stretch. This is now two straight games where Miami gave up a lead late and allowed a win to slip through. Plus, in both, poor defensive execution and special teams lapses were decisive. As fans, we must ask: Why is this still happening? Achane’s resurgence for 128 rushing yards and two touchdowns shows this team still has a dynamic weapon on the ground. Tua’s composure under pressure helped to drive them into the lead with under a minute left wasn’t easy. Even after falling behind, Miami didn’t quit. The fight was there.
Defensive breakdowns under duress were the story of this game. The timing of the McConkey play, putting the Chargers in field goal range, was brutal. At that moment, Miami’s defensive backfield couldn’t close. Special teams missteps also sunk the Dolphins, with the kickoff return by Hines turning into a swing of momentum for LA. Miami has to eliminate those giveaways. Late-game management is becoming a consistent issue. When leads are in hand, they can’t let momentum flip. Looking forward, this isn’t just about pride — it’s about survival. McDaniel’s seat grows hotter. The remaining schedule doesn’t get easier. The Chargers game felt winnable. Now it’s about answering whether Miami has the stomach for fight, stability, and finish. They must. No more losing on the last plays.
