Dolphins blow 17-0 lead as run defense falters vs Panthers

CHARLOTTE — The Miami Dolphins squandered a 17-0 lead and fell 27-24 to the Carolina Panthers on Sunday at Bank of America Stadium, dropping to 1-4 and deepening questions about the team’s defense and the coaching staff. Carolina’s running game, led by backup Rico Dowdle, ripped through Miami’s front for 206 yards on 23 carries and produced the go-ahead touchdown late in the fourth quarter.

Miami took control early after a strip-sack by edge rusher Bradley Chubb and an interception by safety Minkah Fitzpatrick set up two first-quarter touchdowns. Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa completed 27 of 36 passes for 256 yards and three touchdowns, including a 46-yard scoring strike to Jaylen Waddle that briefly put Miami back in front in the fourth quarter. Tight end Darren Waller, in his second game with the team, had five catches for 78 yards and a first-half touchdown.

Those bright spots were overwhelmed by a breakdown against the run. The Panthers averaged 7.5 yards per carry and finished with 239 rushing yards as a team. Miami’s offense managed just 19 rushing yards on 14 attempts. Head coach Mike McDaniel called the run defense “not how you win football games,” and said the staff would...