The Miami Dolphins’ matchup versus the Buffalo Bills in Week 3 of the 2025 NFL season delivered drama, excitement, and personal milestones—and among them was rookie running back Ollie Gordon II finding paydirt for the first time in his NFL career. Coupled with a gritty performance from head coach Mike McDaniel, mixed emotions followed for Miami. This article delves into how Gordon’s touchdown came about, McDaniel’s reactions, game context, and what it could mean going forward.
1. Game Context: Dolphins vs. Bills
On Thursday Night Football, the Miami Dolphins took on the Buffalo Bills in a highly anticipated AFC East clash. Buffalo came in undefeated (3-0), riding momentum from solid offensive and defensive showings, while Miami stared down a winless start to the season (0-2), searching for answers.
Buffalo ultimately won 31-21, but the night was notable for several reasons: missed opportunities for Miami, growing pressure on Coach McDaniel, and the bright spot in rookie Gordon’s first scoring moment.
2. Who is Ollie Gordon II?
Ollie Gordon II is a rookie running back for the Dolphins, drafted in the sixth round in 2025. Coming into the season, Gordon had limited touches—just three carries in the first two games—so expectations were modest.
What sets Gordon apart is his work ethic, versatility, and ability in short-yardage situations. Though not yet a featured back, his skill set offers Miami depth and a forward outlook as the season wears on.
3. First NFL Touchdown: The Moment and Its Build-Up
The Play
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On the opening drive of the game, Miami’s offense managed to move the chains and position themselves in the red zone.
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On a 2-yard run, Ollie Gordon II punched it into the end zone, scoring his first professional touchdown.
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Gordon finished the night with 9 carries for 38 yards plus that touchdown.
Significance
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The touchdown came on Miami’s very first offensive possession, which is a strong statement to start the game with momentum.
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For Gordon, who had barely seen the field, this was a major confidence booster and possibly a changing point in how the Dolphins plan to utilize their backfield.
4. Mike McDaniel’s Comments: Praise, Criticism and Perspective
Coach Mike McDaniel had several things to say post-game, reflecting both on Gordon’s performance and the wider team issues.
On Ollie Gordon
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“Ollie did a really good job,” McDaniel said of the rookie’s euphoric moment. He emphasized the importance of young players stepping up when given the opportunity.
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He noted that while Gordon’s role had been limited up to that point, the performance showed that depth and readiness from backups could be an asset as the season progresses.
On the Overall Team & Game
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McDaniel acknowledged that Miami showed fight in Buffalo, especially on defense and in critical moment possessions. NFL.com+1
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He admitted that certain penalties and self-inflicted errors hurt the Dolphins, particularly the roughing the kicker penalty and a late interception that sealed the game.
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In a short week with noise around his job security, McDaniel said that while the losses are tough, the performance had some positive signs—especially from the younger players.
5. Game Flow: What Worked & What Didn’t for Miami
Strengths
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Opening Drive Success: The Dolphins came out with strength, setting the tone with Gordon’s score. It showed preparedness and ability to execute early.
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Resilience: Even though Buffalo held the lead at multiple points, Miami remained competitive, forcing stops and converting key plays.
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Positive Rookie Contributions: Beyond Gordon, the team got meaningful moments from other young players stepping up under pressure. McDaniel pointed these out.
Weaknesses
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Penalties & Mistakes: Critical penalties, such as the roughing the kicker, and turnovers came at inopportune moments. These swung momentum away from Miami.
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Inconsistent Offensive Execution: Outside the opening drive, Miami struggled to consistently move the ball against Buffalo’s defense. Some drives stalled, and big plays were harder to find.
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Defensive Struggles in Key Moments: While there were stops, Buffalo found ways to break through. Terrel Bernard’s interception and other defensive plays were clutch—but so were gaps.
6. Implications for the Rookies and Depth Chart
Ollie Gordon’s touchdown and overall usage may shift internal dynamics:
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Backfield competition: With De’Von Achane also getting touches, the Dolphins may now lean more on a two-back system. Gordon showing he can finish drives could earn more reps.
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Trust in Youth: Miami has many young players. Gordon’s success could encourage McDaniel and staff to put more faith in rookies and backups, especially in lower-risk situations. McDaniel’s comments suggest he’s open to seeing what they can deliver.
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Fantasy Football Interest: From a fantasy perspective, Gordon’s first TD is likely to raise interest among players looking for breakout performances.
7. Path Forward: Dolphins’ Next Steps
Here are some things the Dolphins likely need to address, building off what happened vs. Buffalo.
Special Teams Discipline
Reducing penalties, especially ones like roughing the kicker, which gave Buffalo a decisive edge, must be a priority. These are avoidable errors that can cost games.
Offensive Consistency
Miami must find a way to sustain drives, avoid third-down failures, and create explosive plays. The opening drive was great—but they need that type of execution deeper into the game.
Defensive Adjustments
While there were sparks, Buffalo’s offense still had room to move. The Dolphins need to tighten up in red-zone defense, prevent big passing plays, and avoid allowign rushing yardage particularly from backfield rotations.
Creating Opportunities for Rookies
Given Gordon’s performance, bringing him more into the fold could shift gameplans. Rotating backs, more situational carries, and using him in goal-line or short yardage seems like a natural progression.
Mental Toughness & Coaching Pressure
Given fan expectations and media scrutiny, McDaniel’s leadership will be under the microscope. He must maintain focus, instill confidence, and correct mistakes without letting emotion dominate.
8. Conclusion
Ollie Gordon II’s first NFL touchdown was a bright moment in what has so far been a tough season for the Miami Dolphins. It showcased his readiness and potential, and provided some much-needed energy early in a high-stakes matchup. While the final result—another loss—lingers, there are silver linings: for Gordon, for other young players, and for the coaching staff under Mike McDaniel.
Coach McDaniel’s comments reflect both realism and hope. He saw what worked, pointed out what hurt them, and seems committed to making adjustments. For the Dolphins to turn their season around, they’ll need more moments like Gordon’s touchdown—early, decisive, and executed with precision.
