Miami Dolphins running back De’Von Achane delivered a stunning performance in Sunday’s upset victory over the Buffalo Bills, racking up 225 scrimmage yards and scoring two fourth-quarter touchdowns of 59 and 35 yards.
According to Next Gen Stats, Achane gained 195 yards after contact (165 rushing, 30 receiving) — the most by any Dolphins player since at least 2017. The 24-year-old back also forced a career-high 11 missed tackles, generating 100 yards after forcing a missed tackle, showcasing his elite balance and explosiveness.
Following the win, Achane addressed the team’s resilience and reaffirmed his commitment to the Dolphins, despite reports that he was involved in trade discussions prior to Tuesday’s deadline. While no deal materialized, Achane remains a key piece of Miami’s offense and is eligible for a contract extension this offseason.
De’Von Achane Not Suprised by the Upset Victory
The disparities couldn’t be more stark. Buffalo at 6-3 are considered a Super Bowl contender with a top rushing offense and MVP Josh Allen at quarterback. While the Dolphins have all but been written off, falling to 3-7 amid a front office shakeup and uncertain job security for head coach Mike McDaniel.
The Bills were 9.5 favorites over the Dolphins, but lost by 17 points, 30-13. A surprise to many, but not to the Miami locker room.
“This wasn’t no shock to us,” Achane said. “We put in the work week in and week out.”
“When we clicking on all cylinders and when we able to end the game from an offense standpoint, that’s the type of football we want to play.”
Achane credited the defense, which had its most dominant performance of the season with three takeaways and three sacks.
“We played great on all levels,” Achane said, “when we play like that, we can win against anybody.
De’Von Achane and Jaylen Waddle Were Trade Targets at Deadline
NFL insiders reported last week that Achane and receiver Jaylen Waddle were part of trade discussions at the deadline, but interim general manager Champ Kelly decided to keep them both. Achane said he’s happy he’s still a Dolphin.
“I want to be here,” he said. “No matter our record this is where I want to be. I was glad neither one of us was gone.”
Waddle had five receptions for 84 yards and a touchdown on Sunday.
Tua Tagovailoa Leads the NFL in Interceptions
Tua Tagovailoa finished 15-of-21 for 173 yards and two scores, but his two interceptions added to a growing problem — he now leads the league with 12 picks this season.
Tagovailoa’s only misstep of the first half came on Miami’s opening drive, when he floated a pass into double coverage intended for Waddle that was intercepted by Cole Bishop.
“We got one-on-one with Jaylen and there was single high safety, know matter what we wanted to take that shot. Got to make a better play, both me and (Waddle), but that’s what we were told to do,” Tagovailoa said postgame.
