Story perspectives

Commanders Throttle Dolphins 20-7 With Three Interceptions

8/17/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Washington Commanders beat the Miami Dolphins 20-7 in the opener on August 14, 2026 at Northwest Stadium, Landover, Maryland.
Washington’s defense forced three interceptions and held Miami to 226 yards.
Miami quarterback Malik Willis threw a 93-yard opening-drive touchdown to Malik Washington and rookie Caleb Douglas, and backups Quinn Ewers and Cam Miller completed four passes for 66 yards, threw three interceptions, and Ewers suffered a groin injury.

History

Historical Context

Don Shula’s 1972 Miami Dolphins posted the NFL’s only perfect 17-0 season, forcing 30 interceptions while allowing just 144 points. In 2026, the Washington Commanders mirrored that turnover pressure, intercepting Miami quarterback Malik Willis three times at Northwest Stadium. The parallel highlights how defensive aggression, a hallmark of Shula’s Dolphins, continues to shape franchise fortunes.

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Story summary

The Washington Commanders beat the Miami Dolphins 20-7 in the opener on August 14, 2026 at Northwest Stadium, Landover, Maryland.
Washington’s defense forced three interceptions and held Miami to 226 yards.
Miami quarterback Malik Willis threw a 93-yard opening-drive touchdown to Malik Washington and rookie Caleb Douglas, and backups Quinn Ewers and Cam Miller completed four passes for 66 yards, threw three interceptions, and Ewers suffered a groin injury.

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