Overview

• The Dolphins opened with a 33-8 loss at Indianapolis, managing 211 total yards as Tua Tagovailoa went 14-of-23 for 114 yards with two interceptions and a lost fumble.
• Coach Mike McDaniel called the performance embarrassing, accepted blame for preparation, and said Tagovailoa’s play was less than to be desired while emphasizing turnover reduction.
• Betting markets now list McDaniel as the leading candidate to be the first NFL head coach fired, with his odds shortening dramatically since Week 1.
• Fan frustration turned visible with a GoFundMe to fly a “FIRE GRIER FIRE MCDANIEL” banner over Hard Rock Stadium for the home opener, raising four-figure commitments within a day.
• National reporting characterizes Week 2 against New England as a pivotal gauge for ownership as speculation grows that McDaniel and GM Chris Grier may not last the season, and McDaniel says Darren Waller’s hip issue could keep the tight end out if the risk is deemed too great.