Dolphins' Defense Steals the Show in Week 13, but Rasul Douglas Gets Fined for Falling Short of the End Zone
The Miami Dolphins kept their slim playoff hopes alive in Week 13, grinding out a win that had more to do with grit than flash. And if you’re handing out game balls, they’re going straight to the defense - specifically to Minkah Fitzpatrick and Rasul Douglas, who both made game-changing plays when it mattered most.
Douglas, back in action after missing two games and getting extra rest over the bye, made his presence felt immediately. Midway through the game, he baited Saints rookie quarterback Tyler Shough into a bad throw, jumped the route, and came up with a crucial interception that halted a bit of Saints momentum. It was the kind of veteran play Miami’s secondary has been craving all season.
But while Douglas made the pick, it’s what he didn’t do that caught the attention of his teammate - and not in a good way.
Fitzpatrick’s Pick-Two Seals It - and Sparks Some Locker Room Banter
Late in the game, with the Saints threatening to tie it up, Fitzpatrick delivered the dagger. He snagged a two-point conversion attempt and took it all the way back for two points the other way - a rare and momentum-swinging play that helped seal the win for Miami. It was a clutch moment from a player who’s made a career out of them.
After the game, Fitzpatrick had a little fun at Douglas’ expense. When asked about his teammate’s earlier interception, Fitzpatrick didn’t hold back - with a smile.
"Yeah, great play but he is definitely getting fined for not scoring on that play."
Turns out, the Dolphins’ defense has an internal fine system - not for penalties or mistakes, but for missed opportunities like this. Douglas’ return went for 38 yards before he was caught from behind. And while it didn’t cost them the game, it did cost him $2,000, according to a postgame conversation with reporter Isaiah Smalls.
Me: "You gotta get to the crib!" Douglas: sighs "I know! I just got fined $2000 for that."
The fines aren’t just for punishment - they’re pooled together and usually go toward a team dinner or a party at the end of the season. So while Douglas is out a couple grand for now, he’ll likely be enjoying a nice steak or seafood platter with the rest of the unit come January.
More Than a Laughing Matter: Douglas Proving His Value
Jokes aside, Douglas has been a major addition to this Dolphins defense. Picked up after training camp, he was brought in to help fill the void left by Jalen Ramsey and Kendall Fuller - two key departures that left the secondary in flux. And he’s done just that, stepping into a starting role on the boundary and bringing both physicality and veteran savvy to the unit.
Even at 31, Douglas is showing he’s got plenty left in the tank. He’s playing on a one-year deal, but if the Dolphins are serious about building a sustainable defense moving forward, extending Douglas should be on the to-do list. He’s not just a stopgap - he’s been a difference-maker.
And while the film room this week will no doubt highlight his textbook route jump and interception, you can bet there’ll be just as much laughter when they roll the tape of him getting chased down before the goal line.
In a season where the Dolphins have been searching for consistency, the defense is starting to show signs of life. And if Fitzpatrick and Douglas keep making plays like this - even with a few fines sprinkled in - Miami might just keep hanging around in the playoff picture.