In a 34-19 victory against the Las Vegas Raiders, the Miami Dolphins offense was surgical and efficient. The most reliable and dynamic target for quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, who had to consistently get the ball out quick, was tight end Jonnu Smith.
The veteran pass catcher finished his big day with six receptions for 101 yards and two touchdowns.
Smith’s first touchdown occurred on the opening drive of the game. Miami embarked on a 14-play, 70-yard drive that took over eight minutes off the clock. The Dolphins found themselves in a fourth-and-goal situation a yard away from the end zone and Tagovailoa connected with Smith for the game’s first touchdown.
Poetry in motion@Tua finds @Easymoney_81 for 6️⃣! pic.twitter.com/HXZX24qro3
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) November 17, 2024
Smith’s second touchdown was the dagger of the game when Tagovaioa found the tight end wide open in the middle of the field for a 57-yard touchdown
Jonnu really said see ya 👋
📺 #LVvsMIA on @NFLonCBS & @paramountplus pic.twitter.com/YbSuyFfsuz
— Miami Dolphins (@MiamiDolphins) November 17, 2024
That touchdown was the final blow and all but sealed a Dolphins victory. All six of Smith’s receptions Sunday resulted in either a first down or a touchdown.
After a slow start to the season, Smith has settled into the Miami offense and has found a significant role, becoming one of Tagovailoa’s favorite targets. That was especially evident Sunday in a stellar performance.
