Miami Dolphins linebacker Jordyn Brooks recorded 11 combined tackles, six solo, and a massive tackle for loss on Los Angeles Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford in a stellar performance Monday night.
The Miami defense kept a tough Rams offense out of the end zone all game. The unit collectively recorded four sacks and two turnovers on Sean McVay’s offense. It was arguably the most impressive performance by the Miami defense since Anthony Weaver took over as defensive coordinator in the offseason.
Brooks’ biggest play of the game occurred on the opening drive of the second half with the Rams in Miami territory and threatening to cut into or erase the Dolphins’ 10-6 lead. After a fumbled handoff attempt from Matthew Stafford to Kyren Williams, Brooks jetted into the backfield to take down Stafford for a 13-yard loss.
While the play wasn’t counted as a sack for Brooks, it certainly had the impact of one.
The big loss eventually led to a 57-yard field goal attempt by Rams’ kicker Josh Karty that was missed. That proved a significant moment in the remainder of the game, as it allowed the Dolphins to remain out of striking distance — especially after they scored a touchdown on the ensuing drive.
Brooks came into this game with a team-high 62 tackles on the season. He added 11 more to his total tonight — his second double digit tackle game of the season. He has turned out to be one of the better off-season signings by general manager Chris Grier, who found an upgrade from Jerome Baker.
