The Dolphins vs Bills rivalry kicked off on September 18, 1966, when the Buffalo Bills crushed the Miami Dolphins 58-24 in their first-ever meeting. Back then, both teams were part of the American Football League, setting the stage for a fierce competition that would grow over decades. Miami dominated the 1970s, winning all 20 games against Buffalo, thanks to legends like Bob Griese and Larry Csonka. However, the 1980s saw Buffalo fight back, with standout moments like their 1987 overtime victory, where they erased a 21-0 deficit. The 1990s brought iconic quarterback duels between Dan Marino and Jim Kelly, both Hall of Famers, adding fuel to the Dolphins vs Bills fire. Today, with 123 total games, Miami leads the series 62-60-1, but Buffalo has won 12 of the last 13 matchups, showcasing their recent dominance.
Recent Matchups: Dolphins vs Bills within the Spotlight
In recent years, the Dolphins vs Bills games have been thrilling, with Buffalo holding a commanding edge. On November 3, 2024, the Bills edged out a 30-27 victory, sealed by a record-breaking 61-yard field goal from Tyler Bass. Josh Allen threw for 235 yards and 3 touchdowns, whilst Miami’s De’Von Achane ran for 63 yards and a score.Earlier, on September 12, 2024, Buffalo dominated 31-10, with James Cook scoring three touchdowns. Miami’s Tua Tagovailoa struggled, throwing three interceptions before exiting with a concussion. Since 2017, Buffalo has won 15 of 17 games against Miami, including a 34-31 playoff win in 2023. These Dolphins vs Bills clashes highlight Buffalo’s physical, disciplined playstyle, while Miami’s fast-paced offense often struggles to execute against their rivals. The Bills’ 9-0 home record against Miami since 2017 underscores their dominance.
Key Players in Dolphins vs Bills Rivalry
The Dolphins vs Bills rivalry has showcased some of the NFL’s biggest stars. For Buffalo, quarterback Josh Allen has been a game-changer, boasting an 11-2 record against Miami with 3,502 passing yards, 34 touchdowns, and 640 rushing yards. His ability to extend plays and deliver under pressure makes him a Dolphins’ nightmare. Running back James Cook has also shone, with three touchdowns in their September 2024 matchup. On the Dolphins’ side, Tua Tagovailoa has struggled (1-7 record against Buffalo), but his 231 yards and two touchdowns in November 2024 showed resilience. Running back De’Von Achane and receiver Tyreek Hill add explosive speed, though Hill’s 80 yards in November 2024 was his best since Week 1. Defensively, Buffalo’s Dorian Williams and Greg Rousseau have disrupted Miami’s plans, while Miami’s Calais Campbell fights to keep games close. These players make Dolphins vs Bills must-watch football.
Memorable Moments in Dolphins vs Bills History
The Dolphins vs Bills rivalry is packed with unforgettable moments. In 1980, Buffalo snapped a 17-year road win drought in Miami with a 38-35 overtime thriller, led by Joe Ferguson’s 419 passing yards. The 1990 playoff game saw Buffalo’s Jim Kelly throw three touchdowns in a 44-34 win, their first postseason clash. In 2005, Miami’s Chris Chambers set a franchise record with 15 catches for 238 yards, stealing a 24-23 victory. Fast forward to 2022, Miami ended Buffalo’s seven-game streak with a 21-19 win, despite Buffalo running 51 more plays. Later that year, a snowy December game saw Buffalo’s Tyler Bass nail a last-second field goal for a 32-29 win. Most recently, Bass’s 61-yard kick in 2024 broke a franchise record, cementing another Dolphins vs Bills classic. These moments define the rivalry’s intensity.
Why the Rivalry Matters
The Dolphins vs Bills rivalry isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about pride, division supremacy, and playoff implications. As AFC East rivals, these teams face off twice a season, with the winner often securing a playoff spot. The Dolphins’ 1970s dominance and Buffalo’s recent 12-1 run over 13 games show how the balance of power shifts. Fans pack Hard Rock Stadium and Highmark Stadium, creating electric atmospheres that amplify every play. The rivalry also highlights contrasting styles: Miami’s flashy, speed-driven offense versus Buffalo’s physical, disciplined approach. Social media buzz, like posts praising Buffalo’s young core or Miami’s execution struggles, reflects the passion fans bring to Dolphins vs Bills games. With both teams vying for Super Bowl dreams, every matchup feels like a stepping stone to greatness, making this rivalry a cornerstone of NFL culture.
Tactical Breakdown: How They Play
In Dolphins vs Bills games, strategy is everything. Buffalo’s offense leans on Josh Allen’s dual-threat ability, mixing deep passes with designed runs. Their defense, led by players like Greg Rousseau, pressures quarterbacks relentlessly, as seen in their two sacks in September 2024. Miami, meanwhile, relies on speed, with Tua Tagovailoa’s quick passes to Tyreek Hill and De’Von Achane’s versatile rushing. However, Miami’s execution often falters against Buffalo’s disciplined front seven, which generated constant pressure in 2024. Buffalo’s ability to force turnovers—like three interceptions in September 2024—has been a game-changer. Miami’s offensive line struggles, with backups like Kendall Lamm in 2024, have hurt their rhythm. Posts on X highlight Buffalo’s balanced attack, with 226 passes and 226 runs before their November 2024 game, showing their versatility in dismantling Miami’s defense.
The Future of Dolphins vs Bills
Looking ahead, the Dolphins vs Bills rivalry promises more fireworks. Buffalo’s young core—Allen, Cook, and defenders like Christian Benford—suggests sustained dominance. Their cap space and draft picks, as noted by fans on X, signal a bright future. Miami, however, is at a crossroads. Tua Tagovailoa’s concussion history raises questions, with some suggesting a veteran like Ryan Tannehill as a backup plan. Miami’s offseason moves, like trading for Tyreek Hill, show their ambition, but execution remains a hurdle. The Dolphins need to solve Buffalo’s defensive pressure to flip the script. With both teams eyeing Super Bowl LIX, the 2025 season’s Dolphins vs Bills matchups will be pivotal. Fans expect tight games, as four of the last six were one-score battles, ensuring this rivalry remains a thrilling chapter in NFL history.
FAQs About Dolphins vs Bills
1. How in many instances have the Dolphins vs Bills played every other?
The Dolphins vs Bills have faced off 123 times since 1966, with Miami leading the all-time series 62-60-1. This includes a 61-55-1 regular-season edge for Miami, but Buffalo dominates the playoffs 4-1.
2. Who has been the standout player in recent Dolphins vs Bills games?
Josh Allen has been the standout, with an 11-2 record against Miami, throwing for 3,502 yards and 34 touchdowns while rushing for 640 yards and five scores. His dual-threat ability has been a key factor in Buffalo’s recent dominance.
3. What was the most memorable Dolphins vs Bills game?
One iconic game was November 3, 2024, when Buffalo’s Tyler Bass kicked a franchise-record 61-yard field goal to secure a 30-27 win. The back-and-forth thriller saw seven consecutive scoring drives in the second half.
4. Why is the Dolphins vs Bills rivalry so intense?
As AFC East rivals, they compete twice a season for division supremacy and playoff spots. Miami’s 1970s dominance and Buffalo’s recent 12-1 run over 13 games fuel the passion, amplified by contrasting playstyles and electric fanbases.
5. What’s at stake in future Dolphins vs Bills games?
With both teams aiming for Super Bowl LIX, Dolphins vs Bills games could decide the AFC East title and playoff seeding. Miami needs to overcome Buffalo’s defensive pressure, while the Bills aim to maintain their dominance.
Conclusion
The Dolphins vs Bills rivalry is a cornerstone of NFL history, blending decades of competition with modern-day drama. From Miami’s 1970s sweep to Buffalo’s recent reign, these games showcase football at its finest—hard-hitting, strategic, and emotional. Josh Allen’s brilliance, Miami’s speed, and moments like Tyler Bass’s 61-yard kick keep fans glued to every play. As both teams chase playoff glory, the Dolphins vs Bills saga will continue to deliver heart-pounding action. Whether you’re cheering for Miami’s comeback or Buffalo’s continued dominance, this rivalry is a testament to the NFL’s enduring excitement.