Mariota injured, Willis impressive as Commanders beat Dolphins

The useful part

Malik Willis got off to an impressive start as Miami's new quarterback, leading a 14-play, 93-yard touchdown drive as the Dolphins lost 20-7 to the Washington Commanders Friday night in the preseason opener for both teams. Washington's veteran backup quarterback, Marcus Mariota, got the start but lasted just four plays. Mariota suffered a leg injury on a non-contact play while handing the ball off to Kaytron Allen.

How it works

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• He immediately fell to the ground and was surrounded by Washington's training staff.
• Mariota eventually walked off the field under his own power and went into the blue medical tent.
• The veteran emerged a few minutes later and had a brief sideline chat with starting QB Jayden Daniels and offensive coordinator David Blough before walking into the locker room.
• Signed as a free agent in the offseason to replace Tua Tagovailoa, Willis completed 4 of 5 passes for 43 yards on his lone series and had 9 yards rushing on two carries.

What to take from it

De'Von Achane also played just the first series, capping it off with a 1-yard touchdown run. Willis' best play was a 28-yard connection with rookie Caleb Douglas, who hauled in the pass with one hand over cornerback Antonio Hamilton Sr. One play before he was hurt, Mariota completed a 22-yard pass to Dyami Brown but was hit by linebacker Tyrel Dodson on the throw.

Details worth keeping

Almost all the Commanders' defensive starters didn't play. He was slow to get up before jogging to catch up with his teammates.