
Tyreek Hill Takes Accountability: ‘I Need More Reps with Tua’ After Costly Drops in Dolphins’ Crucial Win
Tyreek Hill, star wide receiver for the Miami Dolphins, admitted that a lack of practice reps with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa contributed to his struggles during the team’s 29-17 victory over the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday. Despite the win, Hill’s uncharacteristic drops left critical points on the board, including two near-touchdowns.
Hill dropped a third-down pass during the Dolphins’ opening drive and later missed another potential score in the end zone, where 49ers cornerback Deommodore Lenoir managed a last-second tip. A third drop on a deep route late in the game added to the missed opportunities, forcing Miami to settle for field goals instead of touchdowns.
Hill, who has been battling a wrist injury for weeks, pointed to his limited practice schedule as a factor. “I need those valuable reps with Tua,” Hill said, reflecting on the impact of missing practices, especially on Wednesdays. “As a leader, I have to bite the bullet and practice more to get those reps with QB1. If we stay on the field on third down, who knows what could happen?”
Hill referenced a lesson he learned from Chiefs coach Andy Reid: preparation during the week is key to game-day success. Hill has been listed as limited or questionable in practice since Week 7, and his production has noticeably dipped. With just 945 receiving yards on pace for the season, Hill is set for his lowest output as a full-time starter.
Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel acknowledged the need for adjustments. “If Tyreek feels rest has affected his performance, we’ll prioritize more reps,” McDaniel said. Tagovailoa echoed the sentiment, emphasizing that chemistry between quarterback and receiver hinges on repetition.
At 6-7, Miami’s playoff hopes are slim but alive. The Dolphins must win their remaining games and hope for losses by Denver and Indianapolis. More practice reps between Hill and Tagovailoa could be the key to reigniting the Dolphins’ offense and making a late playoff push.