The Miami Dolphins game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Thursday night was supposed to be an exciting game. The Bengals donned their new “White Bengal” helmets and the Dolphins wore their aquatic uniforms.
However, the AFC battle took a chilling turn when Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa suffered a head and neck injury in the second quarter. After several moments on the turf, he was placed on a stretcher and transported to a local hospital in Cincinnati.
Without Tagovailoa in the second half, the Bengals would pull away from the Dolphins in a 27-15 win. However, the outcome of the match was secondary. Tagovailoa’s health overshadowed the entire second half.
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Here’s what we know about Tua Tagovailoa’s health:
What happened to Tua Tagovailoa Thursday night?
Tagovailoa was sacked and slammed to the turf by Bengals defensive tackle Josh Tupou with 5:43 left in the second quarter. Tagovailoa remained motionless on the grass, and his fingers were disjointed in what was a chilling scene. Tagovailoa was carried off the field on a stretcher and did not return. The Amazon Prime show later reported that he was taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center with head and neck injuries, and had movement in all of his extremities.
Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel said after the game that Tagovailoa had been evaluated for a concussion and was following a concussion protocol. He was treated for head and neck injuries and was seen wearing a neck brace at the stadium after being released from hospital.
What is the story of Tua Tagovailoa?
Last week, Tagovailoa appeared to suffer a head injury in the second quarter when he was pushed to the ground by Buffalo Bills linebacker Matt Milano. The impact of the push caused Tagovailoa’s head to slam onto the turf. He struggled to get up before falling to the ground.
Amazingly, Tagovailoa returned to the game after the team said he passed the NFL’s concussion protocol. The Dolphins later said Tagovailoa suffered back and ankle injuries against the Bills.
After the Week 3 game, the NFLPA announced that it would launch an investigation into the handling of Tagovailoa’s concussion evaluation. Tagovailoa was listed as questionable with back and ankle injuries on Thursday night.
Is Tua Tagovailoa still in hospital?
Tagovailoa was released from the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and returned home with the team Thursday night.
“Tua is home and initial tests have been negative,” a Dolphins spokesperson said.
What’s the latest on the NFLPA investigation?
The NFLPA announced Thursday night that its investigation into whether or not the Dolphins committed a violation of concussion protocol is ongoing.
Contributor: Safid Deen
Follow USA TODAY Sports’ Tyler Dragon on Twitter @TheTylerDragon.
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