When analyzing Chargers vs Miami Dolphins match player stats, few recent games generated more attention than the high-intensity Week 1 showdown of the 2023 NFL season. Played at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California, the matchup between the Los Angeles Chargers and the Miami Dolphins delivered one of the most explosive offensive performances of the year.
The Dolphins edged the Chargers 36–34 in a dramatic contest that featured elite quarterback play, explosive receiving production, defensive adjustments, and crucial late-game execution. This article provides a complete statistical breakdown of that matchup, covering every major performance category — from quarterbacks to advanced analytics.
Quick Match Overview
- Game: Dolphins vs Chargers
- Season: 2023 NFL Regular Season – Week 1
- Venue: SoFi Stadium
- Final Score: Dolphins 36, Chargers 34
- Total Combined Yards: 969 offensive yards
- Combined Passing Yards: 732
Both teams entered the season with playoff aspirations, and this game immediately showcased their offensive potential. The Chargers led late in the fourth quarter before Miami executed a decisive drive that sealed the win.
Historical Rivalry Overview – Chargers vs Dolphins
The rivalry between the Chargers and Dolphins spans decades, with fluctuating periods of dominance. While not a traditional divisional rivalry, their meetings have often produced:
- High passing totals
- Competitive fourth quarters
- Star quarterback duels
The Dolphins carry historical prestige from their undefeated 1972 season, while the Chargers have long been known for elite quarterback play across eras.
The 2023 matchup added another thrilling chapter to this cross-conference battle.
Game Summary and Momentum Shifts
First Quarter
Miami struck first with efficient passing, but Los Angeles responded quickly with a touchdown drive fueled by precise passing from their quarterback.
Second Quarter
Both teams traded touchdowns. Defensive stops were limited, and offensive rhythm dominated the tempo. Miami’s vertical attack began stretching the Chargers’ secondary.
Third Quarter
The Chargers briefly gained momentum with sustained drives and red-zone efficiency. However, explosive passing plays kept Miami within striking distance.
Fourth Quarter
The defining moment came late, when Miami engineered a decisive scoring drive. The Chargers’ final possession fell short after a failed defensive stop earlier allowed Miami to regain the lead.
Momentum shifts were driven primarily by explosive plays rather than turnovers.
Quarterback Performance Breakdown
Few games highlighted quarterback excellence like this one.
Chargers Quarterback Stats
Justin Herbert
- 23/33 completions
- 228 passing yards
- 1 passing touchdown
- 0 interceptions
- 1 rushing touchdown
- 95.1 passer rating
Herbert displayed efficiency and composure. He avoided turnovers and extended drives with smart decision-making. His rushing touchdown added a valuable scoring dimension.
However, Los Angeles leaned more heavily on its rushing attack than usual, limiting Herbert’s total yardage compared to his typical 300-yard performances.
Dolphins Quarterback Stats
Tua Tagovailoa
- 28/45 completions
- 466 passing yards
- 3 touchdowns
- 1 interception
- 121.7 passer rating
Tagovailoa delivered one of the most explosive performances of the 2023 season. His 466 passing yards ranked among the highest single-game totals in franchise history.
He consistently attacked downfield, demonstrating timing, anticipation, and confidence under pressure.
Head-to-Head QB Comparison
| Category | Herbert | Tagovailoa |
| Passing Yards | 228 | 466 |
| TD Passes | 1 | 3 |
| Interceptions | 0 | 1 |
| Completion % | 69.7% | 62.2% |
While Herbert was more efficient percentage-wise, Tagovailoa’s explosive yardage ultimately defined the game’s outcome.
Running Back & Ground Game Analysis
The Chargers’ ground attack was dominant.
Chargers Rushing Leaders
- 234 total rushing yards
- 6.1 yards per carry
Austin Ekeler
- 117 rushing yards
- 1 rushing touchdown
- 47 receiving yards
Ekeler was arguably the Chargers’ most impactful offensive weapon. His versatility allowed Los Angeles to control time of possession.
Dolphins Rushing Production
Miami generated 70 rushing yards total. While modest compared to Los Angeles, the Dolphins’ run game forced defensive balance.
Wide Receiver & Skill Position Player Stats
The Dolphins’ receiving corps dominated statistically.
Dolphins Receiving Leaders
Tyreek Hill
- 11 receptions
- 215 yards
- 2 touchdowns
Hill’s 215-yard performance was the single most influential stat line of the game. His speed overwhelmed coverage and produced multiple explosive plays.
Jaylen Waddle
- 4 receptions
- 78 yards
Waddle stretched the field vertically, complementing Hill’s dominance.
Chargers Receiving Leaders
- Keenan Allen: 6 receptions, 76 yards
- Joshua Palmer: 5 receptions, 64 yards
The Chargers spread the ball efficiently but lacked the singular explosive output that Miami generated.
Offensive Line Performance & Protection Metrics
Despite high yardage totals:
- Chargers allowed 3 sacks
- Dolphins allowed 1 sack
Pass protection for Miami gave Tagovailoa time to execute deep-developing routes. Meanwhile, Chargers protection was solid in the run game but occasionally vulnerable in pass protection.
Defensive Player Stats & Game-Changing Plays
Chargers Defensive Highlights
- 1 interception
- 3 sacks
- Multiple tackles for loss
However, they struggled to contain explosive passing plays.
Dolphins Defensive Highlights
- 1 interception
- Key fourth-quarter stop
- 3 sacks
Miami’s defense delivered when it mattered most late in the fourth quarter.
Turnover Margin & Its Impact
Turnovers were minimal:
- Chargers: 0 giveaways
- Dolphins: 1 interception
Interestingly, despite losing the turnover battle, Miami won due to explosive yardage efficiency.
Red Zone Efficiency & Scoring Breakdown
- Chargers: 4/4 red zone scoring
- Dolphins: 4/5 red zone scoring
Both teams capitalized effectively inside the 20-yard line, contributing to the 70 combined points.
Special Teams & Hidden Yardage Impact
- All field goals converted
- Average starting field position favored Miami slightly
- No significant return touchdowns
Special teams were steady but not decisive.
Advanced Metrics & Analytics Breakdown
Expected Points Added (EPA)
Miami posted significantly higher EPA per pass due to explosive plays exceeding 20 yards.
Completion Percentage Over Expected (CPOE)
Herbert’s CPOE was slightly higher due to precision throws in tight windows.
Explosive Play Rate
Miami recorded multiple 30+ yard completions, drastically increasing win probability.
Coaching Strategy & Tactical Decisions
- Miami aggressively attacked vertically.
- Los Angeles emphasized balance and ball control.
- Defensive adjustments by Miami in the fourth quarter proved critical.
The Dolphins’ willingness to stay aggressive defined the game.
Injury Report & Statistical Impact
No major in-game injuries drastically altered performance. Both teams fielded core offensive starters, which contributed to the offensive fireworks.
Key Turning Points That Defined the Game
- Hill’s long touchdown reception in the fourth quarter
- Miami’s late defensive stop
- Chargers’ inability to generate pressure on the final drive
Each moment reflected how explosive passing efficiency outweighed rushing dominance
Statistical Trends from Recent Chargers vs Dolphins Matchups
Recent meetings show:
- High passing yard totals
- Competitive fourth quarters
- Elite quarterback performances
This game reinforced the trend toward offensive explosiveness.
What the Chargers vs Miami Dolphins Match Player Stats Reveal
The statistical breakdown highlights several insights:
- Explosive passing outweighs time of possession advantages.
- Elite receivers can dictate defensive structure.
- Red-zone efficiency is critical in close games.
- Defensive stops in final drives often decide outcomes.
Tagovailoa’s 466 yards and Hill’s 215 yards ultimately overshadowed Los Angeles’ balanced attack.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who had the best performance in the game?
Tyreek Hill’s 215 receiving yards and 2 touchdowns made him the most impactful player.
How many passing yards were recorded?
The two quarterbacks combined for 694 passing yards.
Who led in rushing?
Austin Ekeler led all rushers with 117 yards.
Did defense decide the outcome?
Yes — Miami’s late defensive stop secured the victory.
Final Thoughts
The Chargers vs Miami Dolphins match player stats from this 2023 Week 1 showdown represent one of the most exciting offensive displays of the season. With nearly 1,000 combined yards, elite quarterback play, and record-level receiving production, this matchup highlighted the modern NFL’s evolution toward speed and vertical passing dominance.
