The Miami Dolphins' 33-8 loss to the Indianapolis Colts on Sunday was a complete mess. They failed to dominate in any phase of the game at any point. Now, tensions are sure to flare within the organization after this disastrous start to the 2025 season.
The player who gave the Dolphins a nightmare was the Colts' new starting quarterback, Daniel Jones. He exceeded expectations, completing 22 of 29 for 272 yards with a touchdown and two rushing TDs.
In the first half, Jones led the Colts to four consecutive scoring drives that resulted in two field goals and two touchdowns. This marked the first time the Colts scored on every first-half drive since 2006, when Peyton Manning was leading the team.
Soon after the game, Jones received widespread praise, while many mocked the struggling Dolphins.
CBS Sports analyst Cody Benjamin didn't hold back, calling out the Dolphins for making the Colts quarterback look like "the second coming of Peyton Manning."
Benjamin wrote:
"We expected a bit of a downturn from Miami, but making Daniel Jones look like the second coming of Peyton Manning? Yikes. It's only one game, but it feels safe to suggest their whole operation is squarely on the hot seat now. Needing a strong start to regain confidence in Miami, Tua Tagovailoa was most concerning of all, losing the ball on one drive after another."
Daniel Jones made an immediate impact on the Colts. Though there was criticism when he was named the starter over Anthony Richardson, Jones quickly put those doubts on hold.
With the win against Miami, Jones helped Indianapolis snap an 11-year Week 1 winless streak. It was the longest active opening-day drought in the NFL.