The game’s standout was unquestionably Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who delivered his best performance of the season. Tagovailoa, wearing a helmet visor for added eye protection after a pregame scare, threw four touchdown passes and completed 20 of 26 attempts for 205 yards without a turnover. His accuracy and poise were particularly notable given he’d thrown three interceptions in each of his previous two outings and was battling an illness that left his eye swollen shut the morning of the game. His touchdown passes went to De’Von Achane, Malik Washington, Jaylen Waddle, and Ollie Gordon II, showcasing the depth of Miami’s offensive options.
Miami’s offensive resurgence came against a depleted Atlanta squad missing quarterback Michael Penix Jr., top receiver Drake London, and sack leader Zach Harrison. Veteran Kirk Cousins started under center for the Falcons, completing 21 of 31 passes for 173 yards but was unable to find the end zone or spark any consistent offense. The Dolphins’ defense, previously ranked 26th in yards allowed, held Atlanta to just 213 total yards and forced a pivotal fumble by Bijan Robinson in the red zone, one of several drives where the Falcons failed to capitalize.
The Dolphins dominated statistically, outgaining Atlanta 338 to 213 in total yards and controlling possession for nearly 38 minutes. Miami’s ground game contributed 141 rushing yards, while the Falcons were limited to just 45 on the ground. The Falcons’ only touchdown came with just over five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, a 6-yard run by Tyler Allgeier, well after the outcome was decided.
For Atlanta, the defeat was a major blow, especially considering expectations for the season and the manner of the loss. Head coach Raheem Morris admitted, “They went out and smashed us today. They had a beat on what we’re doing defensively. Had a beat on what we were doing on special teams.” The Falcons’ offensive coordinator Zac Robinson and front office leadership are likely to face increased scrutiny as the team’s inconsistency and inability to respond to adversity become more pronounced.
From a betting and analytics perspective, the game defied expectations, with the Dolphins entering as significant underdogs (+270 moneyline on ESPN BET) and the total set around 43.5 points. Miami not only covered but cruised past the spread, and the game’s outcome offers a sharp reminder of volatility in the NFL, especially with injury-impacted rosters and midseason momentum shifts.
Looking ahead, the Dolphins (now 2-6) will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for a short-week matchup against the Baltimore Ravens. The Falcons (3-4) will attempt to regroup as they travel to face the New England Patriots, hoping to avoid further slides in the NFC South standings.
For a full breakdown, highlights and further stats, see Dolphins 34-10 Falcons (Oct 26, 2025) Game Recap and the Miami Dolphins vs. Atlanta Falcons highlights | Week 8 from NFL.com.