MIAMI GARDENS, Fla. — Despite starting the season 0-3, coach Mike McDaniel believes the Miami Dolphins are making progress, even if they’re going through “growing pains.”

In Thursday’s 31-21 loss to the Buffalo Bills, where Miami entered as a 12.5-point underdog, McDaniel admitted there’s no pride in defeat but emphasized improvement.

“The team has gotten better over the past few weeks and is close to being able to step on the field expecting to win through good football,” he said. “There are still shortcomings, but we’re working to make sure it’s not the same mistakes over and over.”

Defense remains the biggest concern: the Dolphins have allowed opponents to score on 18 of 23 possessions and rank second-worst in the NFL, giving up 32.3 points per game. The rebuilt secondary and the return of Jaelan Phillips and Bradley Chubb, who missed 2024, are part of the adjustment.

“The growing pains are real. But I see players frustrated and still trying to solve it together, not giving up on the ball. It’s a work in progress,” McDaniel said.

On offense, Tua Tagovailoa threw two touchdowns and led three scoring drives but also threw an interception on a potential game-tying drive. McDaniel praised the quarterback’s pocket movement and ability to extend plays with his legs but noted areas that still need improvement.

The Dolphins now get an extended break before hosting the New York Jets on Monday Night Football in Week 4. Tight end Darren Waller is expected to make his debut after missing the first three games with a hip injury.