On August 16, 2025, the Miami Dolphins and Detroit Lions clashed at Ford Field in an intense preseason encounter that delivered plenty of action through all four quarters. Finishing in a 24-24 tie, this matchup showcased promising performances on both sides and provided an early glimpse into the potential strengths and weaknesses of each team.
Game Overview
- Final Score: Miami Dolphins 24, Detroit Lions 24
- Location: Ford Field, Detroit, MI
- Weather: Clear and warm, around 90°F
- Attendance: Preseason game atmosphere with enthusiastic fans
Scoring Summary
| Quarter | Dolphins | Lions |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | 7 | 0 |
| 2nd | 0 | 14 |
| 3rd | 7 | 0 |
| 4th | 14 | 14 |
| Total | 24 | 24 |
The Dolphins started strong, taking an early lead only to be answered by a Lions surge in the second quarter. Both teams traded touchdowns in the final quarter, culminating in a hard-fought stalemate.
Passing Performance
Miami Dolphins:
- Zach Wilson completed 15 of 23 pass attempts for 151 yards, with 1 touchdown and no interceptions, finishing with a respectable passer rating of 98.3.
- Quinn Ewers contributed with 2 completions on 4 attempts for 18 yards and 1 touchdown, bringing some energy late in the match.
- Combined, Miami quarterbacks threw for 161 yards and 2 touchdowns on 27 completions out of 40 attempts.
Detroit Lions:
- Kyle Allen led the Detroit passing attack efficiently, connecting on 14 of 17 passes for 124 yards and 2 touchdowns without interceptions, earning an impressive passer rating of 136.3.
- Backup Hendon Hooker had limited action but managed 0 completions out of 1 attempt.
- The Lions totaled 133 passing yards and 2 touchdowns from both quarterbacks combined.
Rushing Stats
Miami Rushing:
- Ollie Gordon II was the leading rusher with 24 yards on 5 carries, averaging 4.8 yards per attempt.
- Jaylen Wright had a modest contribution with 3 carries for 3 yards.
- The Dolphins accumulated 27 rushing yards in the game.
Detroit Rushing:
- Sione Vaki paced the Lions with 30 yards on 5 carries, marking a solid 6.0 yards average.
- Backup runners contributed smaller gains adding up to a total of 66 rushing yards.
- Detroit’s ground game showed more versatility, but overall yardage remained modest.
Receiving Highlights
For Miami, Dee Eskridge stood out with 3 receptions for 53 yards and a touchdown, and Tarik Black impressed with 5 catches totaling 48 yards. Detroit’s Jackson Meeks made 4 receptions for 57 yards and a touchdown, while Isaac TeSlaa added 4 catches for 41 yards.
Most receivers on both teams contributed consistently, though no particularly explosive individual efforts dominated this game.
Defense and Special Teams
- Miami’s Jason Marshall Jr. and Cameron Goode led with 6 and 4 tackles, respectively. The Dolphins tallied 3 sacks and forced one fumble.
- The Lions were anchored defensively by Grant Stuard and Avonte Maddox, each recording 4 tackles. Detroit’s defensive line impacted the Dolphins’ passing attack with multiple tackles for loss and 1 sack.
- Turnovers were limited; Miami lost 1 fumble, while Detroit had no lost fumbles or interceptions.
- Kick and punt returns were effective but did not produce scoring plays.
Conclusion
The August 2025 preseason showdown between the Miami Dolphins and Detroit Lions ended in a thrilling 24-24 tie. Both teams exhibited balanced offensive efforts with efficient quarterback play and steady defense. Miami showed flashes with Zach Wilson and solid receiving corps contributions, while Detroit’s Kyle Allen and ground attack demonstrated promise.
With the regular season on the horizon, this game offered valuable insights into roster strengths and situational execution. Coaches from both sides will likely analyze this performance to refine strategies, but fans can take confidence in the exciting potential displayed by these AFC and NFC contenders.
Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as the 2025 NFL season approaches.
