Giants Survive First Half Scare to Beat Dolphins 26-3

A Defensive Stand Seals the Win

The New York Giants secured their first preseason win of 2026 by shutting down the Miami Dolphins in the second half, finishing with a 26-3 score at Hard Rock Stadium. While the offense showed flashes of life early on, it was the team's ability to maintain composure after a strong opening quarter that ultimately defined the contest on Saturday, August 22.

Giants Strike Early and Often

New York established control immediately when Jameis Winston broke free for an 11-yard touchdown run in the first period. The two-point conversion attempt was not taken, but the extra point kicked by Dominic Zvada extended the lead to 7-0. The Giants continued to pile on points in the second quarter, with Zvada adding a 43-yard field goal to make it 10-0.

Devin Singletary provided another scoring punch later in the half, powering in from 13 yards out. Zvada’s kick following that touchdown pushed the margin to 17-0 before Miami could answer. The Dolphins’ only points came when Riley Patterson drilled a 53-yard field goal, cutting the deficit to 17-3 at halftime.

Dominic Zvada capped the Giants' scoring output of the half with a 32-yard field goal, making the score 20-3.

Second Half Shutout

The momentum shifted decisively in New York’s favor as Miami struggled to generate any offensive rhythm after the break. The Giants’ defense held firm, allowing no additional points while Ben Sauls extended the lead with two fourth-quarter field goals of 27 and 37 yards respectively. The final score stood at 26-3, marking a complete defensive performance in the latter half.

Key Performers and Records

For New York, Jameis Winston completed 15 of 21 passes for 150 yards and also contributed to the scoring with his rushing touchdown. Devin Singletary was effective on the ground, carrying the ball eight times for 40 yards and one score. Darius Slayton led the receiving corps with four catches for 58 yards.

Miami’s Cam Miller attempted to lead the offense but finished with six completions on 11 attempts for 60 passing yards. He also rushed twice for 18 yards. Kevin Coleman Jr. was the top receiver for the Dolphins, recording two receptions for 32 yards. The loss dropped Miami to an 0-2 record, while the Giants improved to 1-1 on the preseason schedule.

Sources

https://www.espn.com/nfl/game/_/gameId/401873292