On Sunday, the Miami Dolphins won their first home opener since 2005, defeating the Oakland Raiders, 35-13. Dolphins owner Stephen Ross was smiling and joking with reporters, something not usually seen since Ross bought the team:
It's the first home opener since I've been around that we've won so it's a thrilling thing. I think we're really on to something. I'm excited about it.
The mood in the locker room after the victory was festive. First-year coach Joe Philbin was awarded the game ball by the players and was seen bouncing up and down in the room afterwards, celebrating with the team.
Offensive tackle Jake Long helped spearhead a running attack that gained 263 yards on 43 carries. Though they may be sore on Monday, there were no complaints from Long because of the end result:
There's nothing better than the locker room after a win. With the [0-4] preseason, we haven't had a win in a long time. The guys were just excited. Everybody's happy. We're not sore. It's a great feeling.
The Dolphins next play the New York Jets at Sun Life Stadium next Sunday. The game is scheduled for a 1 p.m. kick off and will be broadcast on CBS.
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