{
  "id": 933693,
  "title": "Dolphins' Malik Willis has impressive start, Marcus Mariota injured as Commanders win 20-7",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/15/dolphins-malik-willis-has-impressive-start-marcus-mariota-injured-as",
  "topic": "culture",
  "section": "Culture",
  "published": "2026-08-15T02:27:48.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Yahoo Sports",
    "slug": "yahoo-sports",
    "url": "https://sports.yahoo.com/articles/dolphins-malik-willis-impressive-start-022748897.html"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "In a preseason matchup between the Miami Dolphins and Washington Commanders, Malik Willis' performance stood out as the new Miami quarterback. He initiated a notable 14-play, 93-yard touchdown drive, showcasing his early-season capabilities. Marcus Mariota, Washington's veteran backup quarterback, entered the game but was limited to just four plays. He suffered a leg injury during a non-contact play and was rushed to the medical tent after falling to the ground. Despite the setback, the Commanders' lineup held strong as they triumphed 20-7, with reserve players stepping up. Marcus Mariota was replaced by Sam Hartman, who was uneven, completing 8 of 15 passes for 80 yards and an interception. The Commanders' success largely depended on reserves, with De'Von Achane making an early impact with a 1-yard touchdown run and Caleb Douglas connecting with a 28-yard touchdown pass.",
  "summary": "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…",
  "key_points": [
    "Malik Willis leads 14-play, 93-yard TD drive for Dolphins",
    "Marcus Mariota injures leg, exits game early",
    "Commanders victory hinges on reserves"
  ],
  "editors_take": "Malik Willis's strong showing and Marcus Mariota's injury create an opening for Sam Hartman to solidify his role as a backup quarterback for the Commanders.",
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}