Evan Neal is one of the best young prospects in the 2022 NFL draft.

2022 Scouting Report: Alabama OT Evan Neal

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Evan Neal is widely considered an elite offensive tackle prospect. He’s considered one of the best players – regardless of position – in the nation.

Neal was moved back to left tackle in 2021 where he played 1,073 snaps while starting 16 games and gave up two sacks with just one holding penalty.

Strengths

At 6-foot-7 and 350 pounds, Evan Neal is a mountain sized tackle with a height and size that’s unfathomable. He’s got raw power and natural strength to wash out defenders in space.

Additionally, this offseason, Neal clocked 18.5 MPH on the GPS, routinely hitting box jumps at 48 inches. Neal has also bench pressed 475 pounds, and squatted 650.

On tape, Neal is versatile. The Alabama prospect has played both left and right tackle while also logging snaps at left guard his freshman year. He’s the best run blocker in the nation and a dominant force in the run game. However, he does not have elite foot speed. But he is fluid enough to get to the attack point. 

Neal is a clear cut NFL left tackle where he could become an All-Pro at that position. He’s explosive out of his stance, has surprising agility and lateral movement considering his body type. Overall, Neal is the most athletic offensive lineman in the 2022 NFL Draft with huge upside.

Weaknesses

However, Neal is not a flawless prospect. He needs to work on his technique in pass protection. He just has to be more consistent in moving his feet and staying low.

With his size, he may be a liability in short yardage situations as defenders can get underneath him to hold the line. He’ll need to use more consistent leverage and continue to move his feet.

Neal tends to stop his feet after the first contact, relying on his length and power. He routinely allows defenders to work the corner or spin inside.

He is susceptible against speed rushers as he cannot accelerate fast enough to stop defenders getting past him. His hand technique has to improve as a pass blocker. Many times he is reliant on his athletic talent. He leans into his blocks in both the passing and running game.

Neal is the consensus #1 tackle in the 2022 NFL Draft and is viewed as an almost can’t miss prospect by most scouts.

He is an amazing athlete along the offensive line and has the traits and skill sets OL coaches look for. However, he is not perfect. With this in mind, he can very well be trained in the offseason to polish his pass protection skills. Teams with a good OL coach will undoubtedly turn Neal into one of the best offensive tackles in the NFL.

*** This article was originally posted at PhinManiacs***

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

Miami Dolphins QB Tua Tagovailoa has the skillset to make the Pistol offense work

Miami Dolphins Offense: The Pistol and the Motion

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With the introduction of Mike McDaniel as the new Miami Dolphins head coach, taking a look at the offense last season could give us hints at what could possibly remain the same.

Premise

The Miami Dolphins offense has had a bit of a resurgence lately thanks in part to continuity in players at quarterback, wide receiver and offensive line.

What’s been a facet for the offense of the Miami Dolphins success has been the implementation and use of the “Pistol Wing Formation.”

What it is

The pistol formation, like the shotgun, is really an alignment between the quarterback and the running back. In the pistol formation, the quarterback lines up four or five yards behind the center, the running back lines up two or three yards behind the quarterback. In the shotgun formation , the quarterback lines up seven yards behind the center, and the running back lines up to the side of the quarterback.

The Pistol Formation comes with its advantages and disadvantages, let’s take a brief look at them.

Advantages

  • The Pistol’s main advantage is its versatility that comes from its hybrid design. Having the quarterback three to four yards deep allows him to make downfield reads and separate himself from the pass rush by a few yards.
  • It also has the running back five yards from the LOS and directly behind the quarterback to build momentum before getting the ball.
  • The Pistol formation supports Read Options. It can be a fully functional pass play, keeping the running back to pass block. It can also serve as a run play with power blocking and pulling guards.
  • The real nightmare is the RPO. It’s entirely dependent on the quarterback to watch the defense and decide which play will have the most success.
  • It can create advantages in the play-action game. The pistol alignment represents a run-first perception, it makes the play-action pass that much more effective.

Disadvantages

  • It’s dependent on the quarterback to quickly decipher defenses and make smart decisions, it comes with a big learning curve. A wrong decision could prove disastrous.
  • Playing Man coverage takes away most of the passing game, leaving minimal plays for offenses to utilize.
  • Offensive line blocking is crucial as the quarterback is closer to the line of scrimmage. OL blocking can make or break the offense.

What it means

For any offense which runs the Pistol, it means these things:

  • The best Pistol offenses are those that can implement aspects of a Spread Offense into their game plan. It requires a smart quarterback who can properly read defenses once the ball is snapped.
  • While the Pistol could be used just to run the ball, it’s at its best when each play is different than the last. As such, having a solid core of blockers, pass catchers and a good quarterback is necessary.
  • When running the ball out of the Pistol, teams run up the middle where there are a lot of defenders. Teams that are undersized along the offensive line aren’t built for this type of play.
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The Miami Dolphins Offense

During their win streak, the Miami Dolphins primarily lined up in shotgun, which includes the pistol formation. Usually this formation includes the basic Pistol offense with a Wing look.

How it’s done

The Pistol usually has two to three players in the backfield, as it is primarily designed to be a run first offense.

However, with the wing formation, tight ends on the edges force defenses to play at least three players deep.

While it may seem that the pistol is most effective on the dependence of the running game; paradoxically, it is dependent on the threat of a passing game.

The passing game is dependent on the quarterback moving the ball to and from the flow of attack. The best description may be the term of “sequence football.”

Basically, the offense runs in plays where it attacks different parts of the field once the ball is snapped. This does not mean that every play is called in order, it is mostly based on matchups and post-snap reads.

Which is why you see plays that look and feel similar, but can attack different parts of the field. Similar to Sean McVay’s singleback look.

Backfield Motion

Passing Game

The main sequence the Miami Dolphins offense use is the backfield motion to create space and attack different facets of the field.

On the play above, Albert Wilson motions to the right side of the formation, this allows Tua Tagovailoa to see the defense is in zone coverage.

Wilson runs the wheel route gaining depth into the defensive backfield. Waddle runs the curl, an intermediate route, attacking the soft zone in the middle. Meanwhile, Durham Smythe is jammed at the line of scrimmage running a short crossing route.

The biggest threat to the defense is Wilson gaining depth into the defensive backfield, which forces Giants defensive backs Xavier McKinney and Aaron Robinson to stay deep and prevent a big play.

In turn, this frees up the intermediate route Jaylen Waddle runs, he has enough space to catch the ball for a first down and keep the drive alive.

Running Game

The Dolphins also use the backfield motion concept to create space and attack different running lanes in the run game, using the motion while using the same type of blocking scheme. Usually Pistol offenses run with a power scheme along the offensive line.

The sequence in how the run game works can vary in play calls, but use the same blocking style. Runs out wide, off tackle, and up the middle all use down blocks by most of the line with a pulling guard and blocking on the other side of the backfield.

The counter play uses down blocks to build a wall of bodies away from the play and a pulling guard to kick out and head upfield to clear a running lane.

Albert Wilson motions, and the right side of the offensive line follows after the snap. The theory is that the flow of a play can take multiple blockers to the point of attack or be decoys while the running back is on the opposite end.

The execution on the play above illustrates how the theory is able to work. The blocking style is designed so when a defender reacts to blocks to stop a play, he will be placing himself in jeopardy for a companion play. Sounds familiar to the RPO.

Multiple Threats

The Pistol offense is designed in complete backfield series, each of which presents multiple threats to the defense on each play.

Passing wise, the Dolphins run the Pistol Wing to put the perception that there are multiple deep receivers. Most of the time when it is ran, it is in a condensed look.

“When you condense the formation in general out of those RPO looks… it gives defenses more things to look at leading to conflict and hesitation on the eyes as there are a lot of motions, possible split zone action and a variety of different plays that can happen. For Tua he gets the options of the flat, the hook, the curl, the post, the handoff. There are so many different ways [Tua] can put the defense in conflict , when you condense that you increase the post snap reads”

Travis Wingfield

In the condensed Pistol Look, there can be many options, threats, Tua can look in his post snap reads.

For example, the stick flat RPO that is a staple in the offense. Based on the type of Coverage is shown once a play is motioned, the flat play to the tight end is an easy read against man coverage.

It has a balance of passing, which is predominantly play-action in nature. The RPO adds that extra conflict for defenders where they have to hesitate, they have to read and react. It puts defenders in a bind.

The Future

When you watch NFL teams run the Pistol offense, you see them tire out defenses in the running game. It’s discouraging when a team can just run the ball for six yards a carry and there’s nothing you can do to stop it.

The Dolphins, however, cannot run the ball well due to issues along the offensive line. Once these issues are fixed through the draft or free agency signings, the offense has the potential to become a possession team former head coach Brian Flores preached about, only it will actually work with an offensive-minded head coach like Mike McDaniel.

The flip side for the Miami Dolphins offense is that it is labeled as a predominantly RPO offense that dink and dunks its way; although, defenses have not been able to fully halt it.

The threats the condensed Pistol Wing looks bring defenses are the route combinations designed on three levels of the field. Opposing defenses have tried to match up with the wide receivers on the outside to stop deeper routes from forming. Thus, being okay with Tua throwing to shorter and intermediate routes.

Defenses are pattern matching on the outside and allowing linebackers to stay in zone. By doing this, defensive backs are focusing on route distribution while linebackers are able to play with their eyes in the backfield. Leaving the middle of the field open for running backs and tight ends to roam.

Essentially, it is death by paper cuts.

Partner that with a better offensive line, preferably to run a power scheme, and a premier running back. The Miami Dolphins offense could do damage next year.

*** This story was originally posted on the ATB Network***

The McDaniel influence

While the offensive philosophy will change from a power man blocking scheme to an outside zone read scheme much of the personnel could remain the same with variations in different concepts.

Changes along the offensive line will be coming; however the nature in how to attack defenses with Tua’s skillset and core weapons remains the same.

Hussam Patel is a Miami Dolphins contributor at Five Reasons Sports Network, Director of Scouting at PhinManiacs and Editor at Dolphins ATB. Follow him on Twitter at @HussamPatel

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Raheem Mostert should be a top target for the Miami Dolphins in 2022

Fresh Perspective: Building the 2022 Miami Dolphins – Running Back

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Now it’s time for the next installment of the Miami Dolphins offseason plan. With Mike McDaniel, a running game master, acting as the new head coach, this position becomes crucial. It’s time for the Dolphins to take a long, hard look at the running back position.

Free Agency

It’s very tempting to throw some big money at a running back this season, particularly with the likes of Melvin Gordon headlining free agency. However, aside from Gordon, there isn’t really a running back worth spending a large portion on. But that doesn’t mean they shouldn’t spend any money on this position. The Dolphins accidentally found excellent role players at the position, and they should bring them both back to compete if the price is reasonable.

Phillip Lindsay and Duke Johnson, signed off the streets after their respective teams opted to part ways with them, were both much better than the incumbent running backs in the room once they hit the field. Johnson, in particular, made Miami fall in love with him all over again. The former Hurricanes star has been made aware that the Dolphins would like to retain him if possible.

As for Lindsay, the former Pro Bowl running back ran for 1,000 yards in two straight seasons for the Denver Broncos in 2018-2019, but in 2020 his role was greatly diminished once Melvin Gordon signed his contract. But Lindsay still has something to offer, he’s a hard runner and a secure ball handler. He also made fans notice him this season making a fantastic block in the backfield to protect Tua Tagovailoa.

Duke Johnson and Phillip Lindsay are perfect veterans for the running back room. They will compete with Myles Gaskin and Gerrid Doaks for spots on the roster.

There is also another free agent that makes a lot of sense for Miami. All one has to do is connect the dots, and the fit is beyond perfect. After bouncing from team to team for the first two years of his career – including a very brief stint in Miami – Raheem Mostert found a home in San Francisco in 2017, and he became a solid player thanks in large part to Mike McDaniel’s running system.

Mostert’s best season was in 2019, when he ran 137 times for 772 yards and eight touchdowns. That averages out to an excellent 5.6 yard per carry. Mostert boasts homerun level speed and great vision with the football. Were it not for injury problems in the past two seasons, Mostert very well could have been a star by now.

Mostert suffered a season-ending knee injury in Week 1 of the 2021 season. Now, he’s a free agent. He should be very interested in following McDaniel to Miami. With his injury history, Mostert won’t command a lot of money. Something along the lines of a 2-year, $6 million dollar deal should suffice.

Even with these deals in place, however, Miami isn’t done yet. Last season, the 49ers carried five running backs on their roster. If you count their usage of WR Deebo Samuel, you could argue six. So, time for the draft.

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NFL Draft

The Miami Dolphins must draft a running back in the early rounds. So many amazing running backs were found in the past few years.  Miami missed out on all of them due to a misguided sense of contentment in the players on the roster.

Not anymore.

First, a disclaimer. These picks are based off a mock draft done through The Draft Network’s mock draft machine. Naturally, once the combine goes by, projections are bound to change. So anyone who feels that a player won’t be available at a certain spot, keep in mind that selections were made based on who’s available at each pick.

So in this mock, the Miami Dolphins draft one of the most talented running backs in the class. With their second round pick, 50th overall, Miami selects Michigan State running back Kenneth Walker III.

Walker is an all-around runner with the ball in his hands. His vision allows him to find the tiniest gaps and slip through for a positive gain. He doesn’t shy away from contact, in fact he runs like he wants to bowl people over. To top it all off, he has enough speed to run down the field for a long touchdown if he can get a full head of steam. As a rusher, he has everything a team could want in spades.

However, Walker isn’t a perfect prospect. His other skills need some development. Pass-blocking isn’t his specialty, and as a pass-catcher he was rarely asked to do anything. In three years at college – both at Wake Forest and Michigan State, he only had a total of 19 receptions for 136 yards and one touchdown. So for the time being, Walker’s role will be mainly as a rusher.

That said, this lack of versatility isn’t going to be a problem. Walker isn’t the only running back on the roster. His veteran constituents will not only pick up his slack, they can teach him how to adjust to NFL game speed.

Final Roster Projection

Miami now has four running backs on the final roster. All of them bring something different to the table.

  • Duke Johnson
  • Phillip Lindsay
  • Raheem Mostert
  • Kenneth Walker III

As far as payment, keep in mind these are all estimates based on previous contracts and recent body of work for each player. The previous signing of Teddy Bridgewater at quarterback in this plan puts Miami at approximately $74 million in cap space.

Then they add Duke Johnson, who made the veteran minimum last season. 2-years and $8 million dollars for Johnson will put the Dolphins at around $70 million.

Phillip Lindsay’s deal will be around the same, a 2-year, $8 million dollar deal that would allow Miami to easily jettison Lindsay the next year if they choose to. They are now at $66 million.

Raheem Mostert makes less simply due to lack of availability. Mike McDaniel knows him well, and will sell him on the idea of reviving his career with the Dolphins and his run scheme. So he signs a 2-year, $6 million dollar contract which again allows the Dolphins to move on afterwards. Miami stands at $63 million in cap space.

Finally, Kenneth Walker’s contract is based on the rookie wage scale. This changes depending on the NFL’s salary cap. Just for the sake of this article, Walker will receive a 4-year, $6 million dollar contract. Keep in mind, this is a rough estimate.

So this means Miami invests $14 million into their running back room for 2022. This seems like a lot, but Mike McDaniel is all about the running game. Giving the Miami Dolphins actual talent at the position should be crucial. With the three veterans on the team, Walker will be given the necessary time and tutelage to become a true star.

Notice the lack of Myles Gaskin on the final list. Unless he somehow begins to thrive under McDaniel’s tutelage, Gaskin will not beat out the three older running backs. With the new NFL rules regarding practice squad players, perhaps Gaskin will sign there, saving Miami around $2 million.

Gerrid Doaks will also get his chance to compete, but he won’t be able to overshadow the likes of Walker and the veterans. He remains on the practice squad as well.

Next time, the wide receiver position will receive its upgrade. Miami still has $61.5 million in cap space to play with. It’s time to start really going big.

Luis Sung has covered the Miami Dolphins for numerous outlets such as Dolphins Wire for seven years. Follow him on Twitter: @LuisDSung

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A deep dive into Mike McDaniel’s offensive scheme: wide zone RPOs

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New Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel was one of the architects behind a San Francisco 49ers rushing offense that ranked in the upper half of the NFL in rushing yards per game in four of his five seasons as San Francisco’s run game coordinator (2017-2020) and offensive coordinator (2021).

 

 

 

One foundation of this rushing offense was the wide zone (not to be confused with the outside zone, which was another principle of the 49ers’ run game). The purpose of running wide zone variations is to use the horizontal momentum of defensive linemen against them by creating leverage and forcing defensive backs who may not be accustomed to tackling to engage in the run game.

 

The overall horizontal movement of the defense because of these running plays often causes the middle of the field to be left wide open, even more so when the defense is in single-high or cover-zero coverage looks.

 

Combining these wide zone running actions with weak-side slant routes on run-pass options (RPOs) allows the quarterback to make simple reads to determine where the ball should go.

 

 

Another variation of the wide zone RPOs that I expect McDaniel to bring to Miami is with a bubble screen in 11 personnel (one running back and one tight end). The 49ers have used Pro Bowl wide receiver Deebo Samuel in these packages over the past few seasons to great success.

 

This offensive look aims to spread out opposing defenses and put the ball in the hands of playmakers who operate best in open field space. The quarterback in this RPO variation has two options regarding where to go with the ball: hand it off to the running back, who will look to follow the butt of the play-side offensive tackle and then cut up field, or throw a quick pass to the motioning receiver on the bubble screen. That’s it.

 

 

 

Given the confusion that RPOs in general cause defenses, a lot of these reads made by Dolphins quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will be performed before the snap even happens. 

A rule of thumb I use to determine an RPO read pre-snap is to compare the number of blockers against the number of defenders in the tight end box. If the number of blockers equals or exceeds the number of defenders, expect a run, but if the number of defenders surpasses the number of blockers, expect a pass. This is not a foolproof method by any means, but I have noticed it is accurate more often than not. Try it next time you are watching a team that runs a surplus of various RPO packages.

 

These wide zone RPO variants are just one of the many ways I expect McDaniel to formulate an offensive scheme that aligns with the strengths of Tagovailoa and the rest of Miami’s offense.

 

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Eric Rowe could be a cap casualty in the offseason for the Miami Dolphins

Fresh Perspective: Building the 2022 Miami Dolphins – Roster Cuts

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With the Miami Dolphins projected to have anywhere between $67 and $75 million in salary cap space, the franchise is set to be a big player in free agency. Generally, the Dolphins haven’t fared well in years where they “win the offseason,” but this upcoming year has different circumstances.

In spite of the way the season ended, the talent on the roster is worth building on. Brian Flores got them going too late, allowing a 7-game losing streak. But that doesn’t mean the players are necessarily bad. There’s a good core to work with. There was enough talent to drag the team to a second consecutive winning season at 9-8. Brian Flores being fired had everything to do with outside factors, not his on-the-field coaching prowess.

Miami interviewed several different coaching candidates, and the winner turned out to be former 49ers offensive coordinator Mike McDaniel. Already, McDaniel has made it a point to build a rapport with quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, which indicates that the Dolphins will be focusing on building a system around the former Alabama standout. With his innovative football mind and strong emphasis on building a running game, McDaniel seems to have a plan in mind to make that happen.

However, before the Miami Dolphins can start adding new pieces, they need to trim some of the fat. There are at least a few players on the roster that are expendable.

As always, this roster build is strictly based on personal assessment. Perhaps Mike McDaniel has plans for these players, or perhaps he will see things the same way as here. Regardless, it is time for this offseason series to begin, starting with roster subtractions.

Roster Cuts

Assuming the cap space will be on the low end, that gives Miami $67 million dollars to use in free agency. However, there are a few players who the Dolphins could cut ties with to give themselves even more room.

The first and most obvious choice would be to release players who contributed little or nothing to the 2021 season. Right off the bat, WR Allen Hurns and TE/FB Cethan Carter are easy cuts.

This is the second season in a row that the veteran Hurns has been a non-factor for the Dolphins. There’s no point in keeping him around a third year. As for Carter, he rarely ever saw the field. He played in all 16 games but he made only two catches for 16 yards all season. Plus, with the drafting of Hunter Long in 2021, Miami doesn’t need so many tight ends.

By cutting both Hurns and Carter, the Dolphins save $5.1 million with only $433,334 in dead cap. That puts Miami at $72 million.

Now the next move is a tougher call, but it may be time to move on from Eric Rowe. Brian Flores brought him in from New England to help establish his defense. Rowe has the 5th highest cap hit on the team next season with a little over $5 million, and now Flores is no longer here.

Releasing Rowe gives the Dolphins $4,550,000 in savings with only $525,000 in dead cap. So a net gain of just over $4 million. Rowe’s snaps on defense dropped dramatically near the end of the season, as rookie Jevon Holland came on strong and Brandon Jones started making plays. Between the two of them, Rowe could be expendable. This move puts the team at $77 million for 2022.

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At last, the final roster change is in regards to Jesse Davis. It’s clear that Davis is not cut out to be a starter. But that wasn’t what he was supposed to be in the first place. He was supposed to be a utility backup who can fill any spot in an emergency. Much like the Dolphins did with Jakeem Grant and Albert Wilson, they can try to convince Davis to take a pay cut for the final year of his contract. His current cap hit is $4,610,000. Chop that in half, and Miami saves another $2.3 million. Or, cut him if he refuses, and they save $3.6 million.

As a result of these moves, the Dolphins find themselves at $80 million dollars in cap space after cutting just a little bit of dead weight. That amount of cash to throw around makes Miami’s roster tantalizingly flexible. There is so much room for improvement through free agency, and one more strong draft from Chris Grier could put the Dolphins over the edge into the playoffs at last.

With that in mind, the next story will start the fun part of the offseason. This is the part that Madden players everywhere enjoy most of all.

Adding new pieces to the Miami Dolphins.

Luis Sung has covered the Miami Dolphins for numerous outlets such as Dolphins Wire for seven years. Follow him on Twitter: @LuisDSung

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Shrine Bowl is for finding underdogs like Arizona’s Stanley Berryhill III

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LAS VEGAS — NFL Draft prospect Stanley Berryhill lll has fond memories playing at Allegiant Stadium.

It was the site of his first 100-yard receiving game in the Arizona Wildcats’ season opening loss to BYU. On Thursday, he had the longest reception (28 yards) for the West in their 25-24 win over the East in the East-West Shrine Bowl.

The Shrine Bowl is the oldest college football all-star game and is connected with the Shriners Hospital for Children. It’s also the first time such a game is played in the same stadium as the Pro Bowl and on the same week.

“I think it’s pretty cool,” Berryhill said. “They’ve done some pretty cool things. We’ve been really busy with practices, meetings but it’s nice to get in here and have some fun with the kids and just do things like that.”

The Shrine Bowl is about finding the underdogs of the NFL Draft. Quarterback Tyler Huntley played in the most recent Shrine Bowl in 2020 before finding his way onto the Baltimore Ravens and eventually starting some games in Lamar Jackson’s absence.

Berryhill was on the field the entire game, showing his route-running ability and contributing on special teams. He has always been an underdog and potentially a perfect match for teams like the Miami Dolphins, who are entering the draft with two picks in the fourth round.

A native of Tucson, Ariz., Berryhill was encouraged to join the Wildcats as a walk-on by Rich Rodriguez but by the time he could hit the field, the program was handed over to Kevin Sumlin, who was fired after three seasons.

Berryhill broke out under Jedd Fisch’s system in his first season as a starting receiver. He was second in the PAC-12 in catches with 83 and fourth in yards with 744 yards.

“You just bought into what they told you,” Berryhill said. “Change happens in football and you got to learn to adapt, face adversity and that’s just what I tried to focus on and buying into what they were telling us and picking up the offense as quick as possible.

“I just try to focus on the gameplans that the coaches put together for the team and lead the team as much as possible so he had the best chance to succeed,” Berryhill said. “I didn’t worry about my individual accolades too much.”

Berryhill recalls being California to snap Arizona’s 20-game losing streak that spanned three seasons as a career highlight.

“That was a big milestone in my career,” Berryhill said. “You go a long time losing and when you get a win you see all the work that you put in paying off.”

Berryhill had a head start on preparing for the NFL Draft after the Wildcats finished their season at the end of November. He started and ended the season with double-digit catches for over 100-yards. His draft preparation has focused on building strength and perfecting the 40-yard dash.

“It’s all technique, really,” Berryhill said. “All in the start for the most part and stances. It’s like you do not want to waste as much movement as possible so you want to just get it and go.”

Like most players who plays in the Shrine Bowl, the NFL is a dream destination. Berryhill never had a favorite team growing up but was inspired to play football from watching Michael Vick and DeSean Jackson play for the Philadelphia Eagles.

“I always had an idea that I was going to play in the NFL or have a chance to play in the NFL,” Berryhill said. From when I was a kid in high school, as a kid in middle school, that’s always been a dream of mine.”

Mike McDaniel should be the next Head Coach of the Miami Dolphins

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Reports are pouring in that Brian Daboll is the favorite to land a Head Coaching job with the Miami Dolphins

Daboll is the current Bills offensive coordinator and was QB Tua Tagovailoa’s offensive coordinator at Alabama in 2017.

Many inside the organization advocate for Brian Daboll, his success with Josh Allen in Buffalo; however, it ties back to his relationship with Tua Tagovailoa.

While the NFL and GM Chris Grier is all about relationships inside the front office, on the field it isn’t.

The New Era

Enter Mike McDaniel, 49ers offensive coordinator under Kyle Shanahan. McDaniel, a protege of the Mike Shanahan wide zone offense, would fit Tua and the offense as a whole.

The Shanahan offense is coupled with the wide zone running game and a west coast passing attack. This type of offense helped the Denver Broncos win in 1998, thrusted  fourth-round backup Kirk Cousins in Washington, elevated a solid QB in Matt Ryan to an MVP in 2016. 

Look back to Shanahan’s offense with Jimmy Garrapolo and Sean McVay’s offense with Jared Goff.

Both offenses had playmaking WR’s, TE’s and RB’s to help the QB out along with a tactical offensive line suited for the zone game. Not to mention really good defenses that paved the way for deep playoff runs.

McDaniel, learning under both Shanahan’s tutelage and developing a relationship with McVay and Matt LeFluer along the way makes him one of the few coaches that understand offensive football really well.

The basic version of the offense works like this: wide zone runs, under-center play-action dropbacks, crossers over the middle of the field. Seems familiar to Tua’s offense at Alabama.

Both Kyle Shanahan, with McDaniel, and Sean McVay ran the same type of offense with different wrinkles in the game.

McVay loves to use 11 Personnel with 3 WR’s and uses Robert Woods to create mismatches on defense. Shanahan uses more of a 21 Personnel look with 2 RB’s, 1 TE, 2 WR’s.

If both coaches are able to use the same philosophy, which has worked well in the Modern Era. McDaniel can too.

Implementation

The whole “Leader of Men” mantra which exists about NFL Head Coaches is from an old era. The modernity of the NFL has come down to not who can lead a team, but a coach that can invest into players and make them understand what it is all about.

That’s who McDaniel is, it’s what he has done the last 17 years in the league

McDaniel can make his mark, if chosen as the next HC to improve the menial Dolphins Offense by implementing the Shanahan scheme and developing Tua Tagovailoa.

Currently, the 49ers scheme is mainly game-planned by McDaniel, and is built on maximizing weapons. 

Miami has some offensive Weapons in Jaylen Waddle, Lynn Bowden Jr, and Mike Gesicki. However, they need more along with an offensive line.The Dolphins have struggled the last three seasons in maximizing their playmakers and just got to the use of pre-snap motions last season.

McDaniels with the 49ers have put their playmakers in positions to succeed by motioning receivers and running backs across formation and in the backfield.

Fixing the past

The Miami Dolphins have never fielded a top 15 offense, but have wielded great defenses in the past. 

Currently, the Dolphins have defensive playmakers locked up beyond 2023 and are rumored to keep the current defensive staff intact.

Time and Time again, the Dolphins have failed to support recent franchise quarterbacks with never ending offensive line troubles, lackluster running game play and minuscule playmakers.

Now, Miami has an uber-talented defense, a decent crop of offensive playmakers which can be improved through the draft, and a QB that fits the Shanahan system like a glove.

All it takes is a coach that can implement changes to turnaround a lackluster offensive line and make changes to support Tua Tagovailoa. That coach is Mike McDaniel.

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Tua Tagovailoa

Fresh Perspective: Dolphins must avoid repeating history with Tua Tagovailoa

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It’s been said that learning is easier when one fails rather than when one succeeds. With all of the failing the Miami Dolphins have done over the past two decades, one would think they would learn their lesson by now. But unfortunately, that does not seem to be the case. Miami is about to make the same mistake with their quarterback all over again. Tua Tagovailoa was viewed as the answer to all the franchise’s problems. As it turns out, it’s not that easy.

There are so many other factors that are mandatory for a team to win a Super Bowl. Yes, the quarterback is undoubtedly part of it. Most of the teams who made it to the playoffs in the past several seasons had a top 15 QB leading their offense. But in a world where all the attention is focused on the quarterback, the pieces surrounding them tend to be overshadowed.

Miami’s first mistake

Former Dolphins QB Ryan Tannehill has just been eliminated from playoff contention. There’s no question that in some ways, he’s holding the team back. He’s always had trouble sensing pressure, and he has a bad tendency to stare down his receivers. Nevertheless, in all three seasons he’s been the starting quarterback for the Tennessee Titans, he’s made the playoffs.

No one will make the argument that Tannehill is the reason the Titans have found success. Tannehill is surrounded by talent. Now he has all the pieces needed to succeed.

He has a decent offensive line, something he rarely had in Miami.

He has an excellent running game, courtesy of Derrick Henry. The one year he made the playoffs with the Dolphins was the year Jay Ajayi became a star.

He has good weapons with A.J. Brown and the newly added Julio Jones, among others.

He has a good defense, he has a coach who supports him, he has everything a quarterback needs to succeed. So now, if he can’t get the job done, there’s nothing else to look at except his own shortcomings.

But during his time in Miami, there was always an excuse to make with Ryan Tannehill. He didn’t have an offensive line, he didn’t have a run game, he didn’t have good weapons. These are all true statements. He didn’t have what the Titans gave him, and so the Dolphins never made it to the playoffs. But surely, if Tannehill were a better QB, they would have accomplished something!

Perhaps so, but also perhaps not. Recent events have proven even an elite QB is not enough.

Elite QBs still need help

The Green Bay Packers lost to the San Francisco 49ers on Saturday night in the divisional round. Future Hall of Fame QB Aaron Rodgers is now 0-4 against the 49ers in the playoffs. Is it because Rodgers himself is insufficient?

Was Dan Marino not good enough to win a Super Bowl?

No one who watched Dan Marino play would dare suggest he was the problem in Miami. Likewise, it’s very difficult to make the case that Aaron Rodgers is the reason the Packers keep coming up short. Yet, it seems people are making that exact accusation in the aftermath of Saturday’s game.

Everyone is taking turns criticizing Rodgers for his failure. Unquestionably, he deserves some criticism. Rodgers is not a perfect quarterback. But he is one of the league’s best. Easily top 5 in the NFL. Now he is the reason the Packers fail to win in the playoffs? Is the implication that a future Hall of Fame QB who regularly puts together MVP caliber numbers is not good enough to get the job done?

How can you possibly upgrade from that?

Without a doubt, much of the criticism Rodgers is receiving is due to his off-the-field remarks. But there is a significant portion of analysts who are saying that Aaron Rodgers – the player – is holding the Green Bay Packers back.

If that’s the case, then there’s very little hope for any quarterback who intends to take his place.

The Miami Dolphins are still looking for someone to fill the shoes left by Dan Marino. No one has even come close in the two decades since his retirement. So why are people still under the erroneous belief that a quarterback will fix all of Miami’s problems? Dan Marino, the greatest Miami QB of all time, with one of the greatest coaches of all time in Don Shula, could not win a Super Bowl. He didn’t have the running game, and at times he did not have the defense Super Bowl winning teams usually have.

Miami has an opportunity here. They need to avoid repeating the mistake they made with Ryan Tannehill and, yes, Dan Marino. They need to stop looking for a savior, and start building an army.

Dolphins repeating the mistake

Take a look at the teams remaining in the playoffs – as of this story.

  • Kansas City Chiefs
  • San Francisco 49ers
  • Buffalo Bills
  • Tampa Bay Buccaneers
  • Los Angeles Rams
  • Cincinnati Bengals

Four of those teams have a quarterback considered to be either good or great. Joe Burrow is at least in one category. Results vary depending on who you ask. Nevertheless, that still leaves two teams with QBs who are nothing special. The Los Angeles Rams have Matthew Stafford, who up until his arrival in LA under Sean McVay, was rarely considered one of the league’s top QBs. People respected him, they knew he had skill. But they also knew there was a limit to how far he could take the Detroit Lions.

One year with the Rams, and he’s in the playoffs, battling for the NFC Championship Game. What a difference a change of scenery makes. Stafford did not magically improve, the pieces around him did. WRs Cooper Kupp, Odell Beckham Jr., Van Jefferson, Robert Woods. RBs Sony Michel and Darrell Henderson, not to mention the star-studded defense.

All of these teams are positively stacked at every position. That’s what gives them that edge.

The Dolphins need to do the same for Tua Tagovailoa. The Alabama standout was hyped by Dolphins fans everywhere. Even Chargers fans – now perfectly happy with Justin Herbert – were hoping Miami would choose Herbert over Tagovailoa. That is not a coincidence. The consensus pick pre-draft was Tagovailoa over Herbert. But now, one QB has been given support to succeed. The other has been cut off at the knees at every turn.

Reports are coming out that coach Brian Flores did not want Tua Tagovailoa. That it was him who kept pushing the narrative that Miami wanted to trade for Texans QB Deshaun Watson, in spite of his legal controversies. The current consensus is that GM Chris Grier and owner Stephen Ross ultimately overruled him. However, that was the beginning of the end as the relationship between Flores, Grier and Ross rapidly deteriorated from there.

Five Reasons Sports’ own Alfredo Arteaga has determined that after watching Tua Tagovailoa during the tail end of the season, his mechanics had crumbled. His struggles can easily be attributed to that. But that’s not all there is to it. Take a look at the pieces around Tagovailoa.

Miami’s offensive line was absolutely terrible in 2021. Austin Jackson regressed mightily at both tackle and guard, and Jesse Davis continues to be a liability starting at right tackle. It wasn’t until the final week of the season, when the year was already lost, that Brian Flores made a change and put in undrafted free agent Robert Jones instead.

Almost immediately, there was an improvement. That is an example of Flores’s failures with personnel decisions. He refused to look for ways to improve the offensive line, instead insisting that he was sending out the best five guys to start every week. Obviously, that was not correct.

Then there’s the running game. The Dolphins had no running game. That is, until Duke Johnson became the starting running back. For some reason, Brian Flores felt that the running back room was good with Myles Gaskin and Salvon Ahmed. Obviously, that was also not correct.

Then there’s the weapons. Miami has three players who can make a difference in the game. But only one actually did. Tua Tagovailoa helped Jaylen Waddle break Anquan Boldin’s rookie reception record. As for DeVante Parker and Mike Gesicki, Parker missed seven games and wasn’t available for Tagovailoa to throw to most of the time. Gesicki, on the other hand, was available, but criminally underused. That was either by coincidence, or by design. Gesicki was off the field far too often, with Durham Smythe and even Adam Shaheen taking those snaps.

Finally, the head coach. It isn’t hard to see that Brian Flores did not support Tua Tagovailoa. The young QB even made it a point to show everyone that he easily could have played during the Houston Texans game in spite of his injured finger, throwing the ball in warmups only to be sidelined for Jacoby Brissett.

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If Brissett hadn’t suffered a knee injury the next week against the Baltimore Ravens, his return would have been delayed even longer. When he did come in, Tagovailoa started off cold but eventually found his rhythm, showing that even while injured, he could do a better job than Brissett, who Flores seemed to believe was the better choice.

But in the end, it wasn’t good enough. Tagovailoa couldn’t deliver when it counted, and Miami was knocked out of playoff contention. Undoubtedly, that’s partly his fault. But to pretend that Tagovailoa has all the pieces a QB needs to succeed is ignorant of reality.

Build up the army

Joe Burrow in Cincinnati has one of the best WR trios in the NFL. Tee Higgins, Tyler Boyd, and of course his former LSU teammate Ja’Marr Chase. His offensive line isn’t very good, and that shows when facing a team who can get pressure on a QB. But when you have three WRs who can make defenders look dumb and get excellent yards after a catch, it’s easier to make up for it. Also, he has a solid tight end in C.J. Uzomah, and an undoubtedly excellent running back in Joe Mixon, who ran for 1,205 yards this season, as well as catching 42 passes for 314 yards.

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Justin Herbert – on top of being more physically gifted – also has better support. Both Keenan Allen and Mike Williams are easily better options than DeVante Parker. Allen alone is a certified top NFL WR, with Williams being an excellent number two. True, Herbert’s offensive line is also bad, but he does have a running game. Austin Ekeler is one of Herbert’s most used weapons. Just this season, he ran for 911 yards and 12 touchdowns, while catching 70 passes for 647 yards and eight more touchdowns. That combines for a total of 1,558 yards from scrimmage and 20 touchdowns total from the team’s starting running back.

Tua Tagovailoa is expected to be on par with his constituents, with injured and misused weapons, RBs who get benched by free agents off the street, and an offensive line that forces him to throw in less than three seconds on a regular basis? The Miami Dolphins already tried this with Ryan Tannehill. It didn’t work then, and it won’t work now.

Quarterbacks need pieces around them that they can count on when the moment arrives. Right now, the only one Tagovailoa can count on is Jaylen Waddle, and even he made some mistakes in key moments that could have helped fend off the dominating narrative that Tagovailoa is a bust. Whoever the new coach is for the Dolphins, he needs to recognize that while a QB is important, a lack of support will doom him.

Miami must give Tua Tagovailoa a good running back, like Herbert and Burrow have. They must give him reliable weapons, like Herbert and Burrow have. With any luck, they will also recognize that they need to give him a good offensive line, which Herbert and Burrow actually do not have.

If after all that is done, Tagovailoa still doesn’t measure up to his fellow 2020 draftees, then it may be safe to move on. But if they decide that based on 2021’s results that Tagovailoa is already a failure, then they’ll just keep setting up replacement after replacement for failure. Dan Marino isn’t walking through the tunnel anytime soon. And even if he did, his own career proves that a QB alone isn’t enough to win it all.

History is there to learn from, Miami Dolphins. Stop looking for a savior, start building an army. Don’t make the same mistake again.

Luis Sung has covered the Miami Dolphins for numerous outlets such as Dolphins Wire for seven years. Follow him on Twitter: @LuisDSung

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Stephen Ross

Where should the Dolphins Coaching Cycle stop this time?

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Shockingly, the Miami Dolphins fired Head Coach Brian Flores on Black Monday. 

 

It’s been 26 years since the Dolphins had a coach, Don Shula, that can lead this franchise to multiple playoff berths and in contention for the Lombardi trophy. 

 

It’s been an endless cycle since 1995 as the search continues, with the oddmakers all paying attention.

 

 

 

The Candidates to consider: 

 

Brian Daboll

 

Daboll, 46, has become quite the hot new name in head coach searches. He is given credit for the sharp upward development of Josh Allen. Daboll was 2020 NFL assistant coach of the year because of it.

 

He also is a Bill Belichick protégé who has five Patriots Super Bowl rings to show for it. Oh, and he coached Tua Tagovailoa at Alabama in 2017.

 

Daboll some may recall was Dolphins offensive coordinator in 2011 under Tony Sparano. He did not fail. He lifted Miami’s ranking in points scored from a near-bottom 30th to a near-midpack 20th.

 

 

Daboll was also Tua Tagovailoa’s offensive coordinator 

 

Daboll maximized Reggie Bush, Brandon Marshall, Matt Moore and Chad Henne. Daboll has had proven success with average to above average players and helped Josh Allen develop into a top 5 QB. 

 

A positive byproduct of this coaching change, if we’re looking for air freshener against the stench, is that it makes it more likely the Dolphins will commit full resources to the development of Tua as their quarterback moving forward.

 

Kellen Moore

 

Kellen Moore has two years of offensive coordinator and Play Calling experience but it’s his third year coaching. 

 

The Cowboys built on Moore and Dak Prescotts rapport. Moore was Dak’s backup and eventually in 2018 became his QB coach. In 2019, Moore took the helm of the Cowboys offense. 

 

In his first year, Moore presided over the NFL’s top-ranked offensive attack, the second-rated passing offense and fifth-ranked running game. His offense helped ascensd Dak Prescott to finish second in the league in passing and set career-highs in passing yards, completions, attempts and Touchdowns.

 

 

Under Moore’s tutelage. Ezekiel Elliot was fourth in rushing yards in the NFL and Amari Cooper had a breakout season.  Moored offensive prowess helped five Cowboys become pro bowlers, with three of them becoming offensive lineman. 

 

Moores impressive resume in a short span says more about the talent on offense and already knowing the Cowboys scheme. If Moore were to get the position he will need a killer offensive staff and question would arise if he could ascend Tua the same way he did with Prescott. 

 

Dan Quinn

 

Quinn arrived in Dallas prior to the 2021 season after serving as the head coach in Atlanta from 2015 until 2020. 

 

He was Miami’s defensive line coach for two years before spending the 2007-08 seasons in the same role for the New York Jets.

 

The big issue coming from Quinn’s tenure in Atlanta was the lack of accountability. When the Falcons messed up on the field, you never saw any anger from Quinn. He would always clap and pat his players on the shoulder after a mistake. Nobody was held accountable, and Quinn would sweep it under the rug. 

 

Now, Quinn has changed his defensive philosophy in Dallas as it aligns with more of what the Dolphins ran last season with similar personnel. 

 

It is extremely impressive as he put Micah Parsons in positions to win and maximized his ability. Quinn all season has maximized and schematically out his defensive players in successful situations. 

 

Quinn built a really good staff in Atlanta which included Terry Rubisky, Kyle Shanahan, Matt LeFleur and Mike McDaniel. If Quinn becomes the next HC, his offensive staff would be intriguing. 

 

Vance Joseph

 

Vance Joseph is the current DC with the Arizona Cardinals and was formerly the HC of the Denver Broncos and the DC in Miami under Adam Gase. 

 

With how Arizona’s defense has performed most of this season and improved over the three seasons he has led it, it was inevitable that he would begin to garner interest. 

 

Joseph, along with Quinn and Daboll have been with the Dolphins as position coaches and coordinators. It feels as if Chris Grier is digging into his past relationships to fill an important need. 

 

It is worth noting that in Miami, the Dolphins defense got statistically worse in giving up yards per game and become one of the NFLs most penalized teams when Joseph was the DC. 

 

In Denver, Joseph inherited a top 3 defense and it failed to go back to that. While the offense struggled, it’s not as if Joseph’s defense overwhelmed opponents, despite talent at each level. 

 

In his Broncos tenure, he allowed 22.8 points per game (15th in the NFL), and 104.5 rushing yards (11th), and 58.3 red zone conversion rate (19th). Led by Von Miller and Chris Harris Jr, the Broncos D had their moments, but not enough to carry Denver to the postseason.

 

Joseph’s offense was dismal. His defense was middle of the pack. What likely sealed Joseph’s fate, however, was consistent coaching errors. Often, Joseph botched late-game situational football, made head-scratching decisions, mismanaged imeout usage, and didn’t put players in the best situation to succeed.

 

Mike McDaniel

 

Although McDaniel is the 49ers’ offensive coordinator, head coach Kyle Shanahan calls the plays. McDaniel helps create the game plan and is in charge of the run game

 

So how did the 49ers do on the ground this season? It’s complicated. They finished seventh in the NFL at 127.4 rushing yards per game, part of an offense that ranked seventh overall and 13th in scoring. Rookie RB Elijah Mitchell was the top rusher with 207 carries for 963 yards and five touchdowns, but he played only 11 games.

 

It is noteworthy that Mike McDaniel was in contention to be an offensive coordinator for the Dolphins in 2020.

 

 

McDaniel is highly regarded around NFL circles. As an intern for Mike Shanahan he was designing plays. While he’s noteworthy for his run game prowess he excels at his understanding of the passing game. 

 

Under Shanahan he designs the game plan, selects the plays and then in game advises on play calls and selects the plays for the next drive. McDaniels is the 49ers play caller 

 

George Kittle asked for it to be written into his contract that McDaniel stays with the 49ers. Former Browns WR Andrew Hawkins said that no other “candidate understands offensive football the way” McDaniel does. 

 

Leslie Frazier

 

Leslie Frazier, the current Bills Defensive Coordinator, if chosen could continue this defensive scheme and build upon this dominance since 2020. 

 

In 2007, he was appointed as the defensive coordinator for the Minnesota Vikings, adding the title of assistant coach in 2008. During the 2010 season, he became the Vikings’ interim head coach when Brad Childress was fired, becoming their head coach in 2011 and holding that position through 2013.

 

Frazier’s tenure was marked by an inability to develop a quarterback. This season, he struggled just to choose between Christian Ponder, Matt Cassel and Josh Freeman. Even more damning: Frazier’s defense badly declined in 2013, giving up more points than any team in football.

 

 

His defense in Minnesota failed to adapt to being flexible and was underwhelming with key pieces being the main problem. 

 

In Buffalo, Frazier was part of a coaching staff that developed CB Tre’Davious White and LB Tremaine Edmunds who were both named to the Pro Bowl, with White also garnering AP First-Team All Pro honors.

 

In 2019, his defense finished third in the league, only allowing 298.3 yards per game. In 2018, the Bills defense finished second in the NFL, allowing 294.1 yards per game, which was the Bills highest rank since they finished first in 1999.

 

To me this feels like an interview request to check off the Rooney Rule. Frazier would be tasked in building on offensive staff. He could bring in Ken Dorsey as the OC but rumors are that Dorsey could go back to his Alma Mater, the Miami Hurricanes. 

 

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*****

 

Who I would want

 

Based on Stephen Ross’ presser he has the Confidence of Tua Tagovailoa as his QB. Ultimately it will be up to the new Head Coach to decide whether they would keep Tua Tagovailoa as the QB. 

 

This comes down to Candidates that are offensive minded coaches that can build an offensive staff that supports Tua Tagovailoa with a competent running game and offensive line, while maintaining the defensive continuity since 2020. 

 

I would roll the Dice with Mike McDaniel, who’s had years of experience under the Shanahan coaching tree. The Shanahan style of run game has the perception of being very hard to learn; however, per players on the 49ers roster McDaniel explains it in simplistic terms making it easier for players to understand through a 2 step cadence

 

 

McDaniel would have to round the rest of his staff with passing game and run game coordinators which he would bring in. The most interesting option would be the OC. I’d bring in Green Bay’s QB coach Luke Getsy. Getsy has 14 years of offensive experience and most notably is the passing game coordinator under Mike Lafluer who has revolutionized Aaron Rodgers and the passing game

 

As for the dreaded offensive line that’s been the league worst since 2019. This current OL needs a veteran OL coach and teacher that can turn it around. Getting Coach Aaron Kromer out of retirement may the best bet of teaching this young offensive line fundamental footwork and techniques to improve their refinement. In his tenure at New Orleans, Kromer sent five OLs to a combined nine pro bowls. In 2009 and 2011, Kromer coached the Saints OL as the best Offensive Line in the league. He joined the Chicago Bears staff helping them become the second best scoring offense in the league. Kromer was part of the Rams Super Bowl 53 run. 

 

As for the defensive side of the ball it would be smart to continue to have the same coaching staff. Keeping Boyer, Alexander and the rest of the position coaches to continue the defensive dominance intact. If the new HC chooses not to, Vic Fangio would make the most sense to continue it. 

 

Miami Dolphins need to improve in these five areas

Fresh Perspective: Top 5 Miami Dolphins offseason musts

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Now that the season has come to a close, it’s time to break down what are the main improvements the Miami Dolphins need to make this offseason. As always, there’s a long list that needs checking off, but there are certain things that have more priority than others. This column will break down the main things Miami needs to do to ensure that next season doesn’t end on the same sour note this one did, being on the outside looking in.

Later on there will be a position-by-position breakdown detailing every single move the team should make, in this writer’s opinion. But for now, here’s a generalized primer that fits the bill no matter who Miami’s QB is.

1. Buy the offensive line

It’s time to face facts. No matter who is in charge, no matter how many draft picks are invested, the Miami Dolphins simply can’t seem to develop solid offensive linemen. The talent is lacking, and the cohesion as a unit is nonexistent. Coaching is a big part of that. However, there is a simple solution. Do what the Kansas City Chiefs did: buy an offensive line.

According to Spotrac, Miami will have more cap space available than any team in the NFL. That leaves plenty of room for the Dolphins to go on a major spending spree, which should be spent almost entirely on the offensive line. There are some solid left tackle options, as well as some top level veteran guards.

It’s time to give the Dolphins QB – whether it’s Tua Tagovailoa or someone else entirely – an offensive line that isn’t among the absolute worst in the league.

2. Find a legitimate RB

This front office stood on the podium at the end of the 2021 offseason and said they were happy with Myles Gaskin and Salvon Ahmed. Their only real addition was Malcolm Brown, who has spent a large portion of the season injured. It became clear that Gaskin and Ahmed both have real shortcomings as running backs.

Then the Dolphins brought in UM superstar Duke Johnson off the street. He looked much better than either of them. Then the Dolphins added veteran Phillip Lindsay, and he looked better as well. It does not bode well for talent evaluation when two free agent veterans come in midseason and prove to be the superior options.

This season has shown just what kind of a difference even a marginal improvement at running back can do. Two seasons in a row, Miami has opted to ignore the running back position. They cannot do so again. An improved offensive line will definitely help, but all around the league, running backs are making names for themselves. Their offenses are reaping those benefits.

The Miami Dolphins should give contract offers to both Duke Johnson and Phillip Lindsay. But even with them, they should not be content. The Miami Dolphins need a true superstar running back again.

3. Keep the defense together

No question about it. Brian Flores has put together a championship caliber defense. But that means the Dolphins need to do whatever it takes to keep the core together. Emmanuel Ogbah, Elandon Roberts, Nik Needham, and Xavien Howard. They all need new deals in the offseason, and it behooves any GM worthy of the title to make sure these impact players stay in Miami.

Back in 2016, an article was written on phinmaniacs.com regarding whether offense or defense was more important. The research showed some startling results.

Let’s start at the year 2000, that’s a decent place to start right? 16 Super Bowls have been played since then, and of those 16 winners, 10 of them have had a top 10 offense. Ok, now looking at the defense, it would appear that 11 of those 16 teams had a top defense. Again, pretty evenly matched.

So let’s tighten things up again.

Of the 16 teams who have won a Super Bowl since the year 2000, only 4 of those teams have had a top 5 ranked offense. In contrast, 9 of them have had a top 5 ranked defense. Not nearly as even.

For completion’s sake, let’s see how many of those teams had the top ranked offense and defense. Since 2000, only one team has had the top ranked offense and won the Super Bowl, while 6 of them have had the number one ranked defense.

If the Miami Dolphins want to keep any positive momentum, the defense needs to be held together. It’s so rare to reach this kind of plateau on the defensive side of the football. Just keep the existing pieces in place, and the rest of the resources can be used to upgrade the offense.

4. Establish veteran presence

Miami’s painfully slow start can arguably the real reason they aren’t in the playoffs this season. The Dolphins lost a lot of games they had no business losing during their 7-game slide. It took them too long to get back to the style of defense they used last season, and it took them too long to work out other bugs in their fundamentals.

The best way to avoid repeating that mistake is to establish a veteran presence this season. Brian Flores decided it wasn’t important in 2021, but hopefully in 2022 he’ll realize his mistake.

Experience doesn’t need to be incredibly expensive. There are a lot of aging veterans that can be had at reasonable prices. WRs DeSean Jackson or A.J. Green, DE Calais Campbell if he doesn’t retire, OLB Melvin Ingram was given a hard look earlier this offseason. There are veterans to be had that can impart some knowledge and still play an active role.\

5. Assistant coaches must be improved

More than anything, this is on Brian Flores. But there’s no way to know if this is likely to happen. Miami’s assistant coaches, particularly on offense, have little to no pedigree. And it shows. Lemuel Jeanpierre, the offensive line coach, has only been an NFL coach for four seasons including 2021. He’s never been an OL coach before, and that shows as well.

Flores needs to find a veteran offensive line coach. Perhaps he can drag Dante Scarnecchia out of retirement for a year, just to get things on track and train a successor in the process. Or, with the recent firing of Vic Fangio, maybe Mike Munchak will shake loose and Flores can make a play for him to fix things up.

Speaking of veterans, it would be coaching malpractice for Flores to not look at some new potential offensive coordinator candidates. The Carolina Panthers are going to interview the likes of Jay Gruden and Bill O’Brien to take over for Joe Brady, who was fired on Dec. 5.

Or, perhaps, Flores can consider Brady for the OC position. He learned under Sean Payton as an offensive assistant, and then was credited with helping Joe Burrow become a superstar at LSU. Perhaps, Brady can help Tua Tagovailoa – or whoever the QB in 2022 is – to find some success with a new offense that will create some excitement.

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Brian Flores has to know that the product on the field this season was not good enough. If even one of those games – the Jaguars, the Falcons, the Colts – ended in a win instead of a loss, the Miami Dolphins would likely be in the playoffs. Better coaches get better results, and there are some good ones looking for a new home. He has to try and upgrade from what he has on offense.

Luis Sung has covered the Miami Dolphins for numerous outlets such as Dolphins Wire for seven years. Follow him on Twitter: @LuisDSung

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