The Washington Redskins finally broke through for their first victory of the 2019 season. A dramatic 17-16 win as the Redskins beat the Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium, provided much-needed relief for the struggling franchise.
With six seconds remaining, Miami faced a crucial 2-point conversion attempt. Running back Kenyan Drake couldn’t handle Ryan Fitzpatrick’s quick throw in the flat. The drop ended the Dolphins’ comeback hopes and secured Washington’s first win of the year.
Drake had four defenders between him and the end zone. Even if he caught the pass, scoring seemed unlikely. However, the missed opportunity perfectly summarized both teams’ seasons.
Miami remained winless at 0-5 despite Ryan Fitzpatrick’s fourth-quarter heroics. The Dolphins trailed 17-3 before mounting their furious comeback attempt.
McLaurin Leads Offensive Explosion
Rookie Terry McLaurin caught two touchdown passes in the victory. The third-round draft pick hauled in scoring strikes of 25 and 33 yards from Case Keenum. McLaurin totaled four receptions for 100 yards, continuing his impressive rookie campaign.
Keenum returned after missing one game with a foot injury. His connection with McLaurin proved decisive in the close contest. The veteran quarterback found McLaurin behind Miami’s secondary on both touchdown throws.
Peterson Powers Ground Game
Adrian Peterson dominated Miami’s defense with 118 rushing yards on 23 carries. The four-time All-Pro more than doubled his season rushing total under new interim coach Bill Callahan. Peterson reached the 100-yard mark for the 56th time in his career.
“It’s about having opportunities and sticking to it,” Peterson said after the game. The veteran running back praised the team’s commitment to establishing the ground attack.
Defensive Playmakers Shine
Washington’s defense intercepted Josh Rosen twice before he was benched. The unit also recorded five sacks on the struggling quarterback. Linebacker Shaun Dion Hamilton made a diving interception and celebrated with teammates in the end zone.
Callahan’s First Victory
Bill Callahan earned his first win as interim head coach after Jay Gruden’s dismissal. The veteran coach gave Peterson a significant workload and watched his team respond with improved energy.
“Games like this, two winless teams, everybody pulls out the stops,” Callahan said. “It was wild all the way to the last minute.”