Colts Dominate Dolphins 33-8 Forcing QB Tua Into Panic Mode

The Indianapolis Colts dominated the Miami Dolphins 33-8 in their season opener, with Colts cornerback Xavien Howard, a former Dolphin, highlighting their defensive strategy against Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa. Howard explained that once the Colts took away Tagovailoa's first read, the quarterback went into 'panic mode,' which was evident in his performance, including two interceptions and a lost fumble recovered by Howard. Tagovailoa completed 14 of 23 passes for 114 yards and one late touchdown, marking his lowest passer rating since 2021 and a career-low QBR of 2.7, with Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel attributing the poor offensive showing to broader execution failures beyond Tagovailoa. The Colts' defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo utilized varied looks and blitzes, including sacks and forced turnovers by players like Kenny Moore II and Laiatu Latu, which kept Tagovailoa off balance throughout the game. Howard, who had been out of the NFL in 2024 after his release by Miami, reunited with Anarumo in Indianapolis and was pivotal in the defensive effort, underscoring the challenge Tagovailoa faced against his former teammate. The Dolphins aim to rebound in their next game at home against the New England Patriots.