Thanks to some big plays from running back Reggie Bush, the Miami Dolphins managed to get a 1-1 start to their season with a 35-13 win over the Oakland Raiders on Sunday. Bush wasn't totally consistent, but had some big runs, most notably in the third quarter when Miami took an outside run to the left and Bush simply beat everyone en route to a 65-yard touchdown.
Oakland couldn't get any traction on offense with quarterback Carson Palmer playing well, but without much help elsewhere. His lone interception came with under three minutes to go in the game, when he was just trying to make something happen. Punter Shane Lechler had to boot it nine times and that should say plenty about the offense. Oakland's defense was unable to get the pressure they needed on rookie quarterback Ryan Tannehill and, as a result, the young QB was able to extend plays and find receivers deep when coverage eventually broke down.
Miami started pouring it on in the second half with the big rush from Bush and Tannehill's first career NFL touchdown pass in the fourth. He hit tight end Anthony Fasano over the middle for a short gain, and Fasano smashed his way to a touchdown, jumping through a tackle to land in the end zone. Running back Lamar Miller got his first career rushing touchdown in the game as well, after Bush left (to a standing ovation) in the fourth.
Wide receiver Denarius Moore made the start for the Raiders despite riding the injury report prior to the game, and left late in the third quarter with cramps. He was immediately labeled as "questionable" to return, but returned late in the fourth quarter. Returner Coye Francies was leveled on a kick return in the fourth quarter, taking a shoulder to the helmet and left the game. Cornerback Shawntae Spencer left the game in the fourth with a foot injury.
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