The Miami Dolphins' hopes of starting fast in 2025 were dashed Sunday in Indianapolis, where they dropped their season opener to the Colts 33-8. 

Nothing went right for Miami as their Week 1 winning streak ended at four.

Dolphins offense struggles in Week 1 loss to Colts

The Dolphins managed just 43 total yards in the first half while Indy ran 43 plays and scored on all seven possessions. 

Miami finished with only 211 total yards and needed De'Von Achane's effort on a screen pass on fourth-and-goal from the Colts 11-yard line with 6:21 left to avoid being shut out for the first time in four years. A 2-point conversion made it 30-8, but that was it for the Dolphins.

Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa went 14 of 23 for 114 yards with two interceptions and lost a fumble on one of his three sacks. Miami ran for 78 yards, and Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle combined for eight receptions and 70 yards. Injuries piled on early as right guard James Daniels exited with a pectoral injury on Miami's third offensive play and cornerback Storm Duck left on a cart late in the first half with a left ankle injury. Both were ruled out.

Former Dolphins player Xavien Howard shines for Colts

The matchup also reunited familiar faces. 

Former Dolphins cornerback Xavien Howard, a four-time Pro Bowler and 2020 All-Pro, suited up for Indianapolis after Miami released him following the 2023 season. 

"He's a great player," Hill said earlier in the week. "He's one of those guys who understands coverages, who understands certain routes, so we've got to be on top of our game. He's definitely a playmaker."

Daniel Jones, making his first start with the Colts, ran for two touchdowns, threw for another and went 22 of 29 for 272 yards — including a career-high 197 in the first half — as Indianapolis snapped the NFL's longest active opening-day skid at 11 games. The Colts are 1-0 for the first time since 2013. New defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo's debut also stood out as Indy came within 6 ½ minutes of its first shutout since 2021.

The Colts honored their late owner Jim Irsay, who died in May, by inducting him into the team's Ring of Honor. Twelve of the previous 18 inductees attended, including Hall of Famers Peyton Manning, Marvin Harrison and Edgerrin James. 

"We miss you Dad, we honor you, we wish you were here," Carlie Irsay-Gordon said during the ceremony. Following the game, the words "Won For Jim" appeared on the scoreboard as his three daughters accepted game balls.

While Indianapolis celebrated ending its Week 1 misery, the Dolphins now face an uphill climb to regroup after a lopsided loss. Their home opener comes next Sunday against New England as they try to set a steadier course toward the postseason.