Tua, Dolphins Bounce Bengals after Brawl, now 8-4

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Just when you think the Miami Dolphins are back to the same old team you’ve agonized over for the last 20+ years, they get into a benches-clearing brawl with the Cincinnati Bengals, lose 3 players to ejection, and turn into a completely new team at halftime. Stephen Ross may as well rename the team because these boys ain’t the same.

The first half of the Dolphins’ home game versus the Bengals was a hot mess. Even with Cincinnati starting their backup quarterback, Brandon Allen, who isn’t exactly known for his grace under pressure, the Dolphins looked absolutely lackluster opposite them. Both the offense and defense struggled enormously. The one TD, a sneaky trick play that punter Matt Haack ran in on the field goal attempt, was called back due to penalties. A team usually touted for their lack of penalties ended the day with eight for 54 yards, and penalties weren’t the only mistakes being made.

The one bright spot of the first half was Xavien Howard, who picked off Brandon Allen on his second possession of the game. But then Howard was ejected for a couple of playground-style blows exchanged with Bengals receiver Tyler Boyd (who was also ejected), and the Fins lost their best player down 7-6 at the half. Boyd was arguably the only bright spot of Cincy’s offense up until his ejection. He snagged the only score for the Bengals off a catch and run TD that went for 72 yards—and don’t give Brandon Allen any credit for that, please.

Kyle Van Noy was the only productive defensive player that didn’t get into trouble in the first half, handing out a couple of sacks on Allen. It was a poor outlook for the Dolphins, with many calling for Tua to be benched and replaced with Ryan Fitzpatrick.

We don’t know what Bill Belichick used to say to his team after bad first halves during the Patriots’ dynasty, but whatever it is, Brian Flores apparently knows. The Dolphins opened up the second half on a beautiful no huddle drive that totaled 75 yards in eight plays and three and a half minutes. Tua looked vintage, Alabama-style, slinging balls to Mike Gesicki in between and over the heads of a totally lost Bengals’ secondary. From there, the Dolphins scored two more field goals to secure the game and held the Bengals to 0 points (although kicker Randy Bullock did miss one from 53 to end the first half).

Just as the offense stepped up, Brian Flores’ defense did the same, totaling six sacks, 11 QB hits, and two interceptions. Emmanuel Ogbah and Christian Wilkins teamed up on a strip sack touchdown that was ultimately called back, something Christian Wilkins is apparently still upset about. Shaq Lawson had two sacks himself and Kyle Van Noy added a third in the second half, along with Zach Sieler.

After one of Lawson’s sacks Brandon Allen was ruled out with a chest injury and Ryan Finley stepped in for the rest of the game. He was immediately pummeled by the Dolphins’ defensive line and secondary when Nik Needham came up with the Fins’ second interception of the day.

It was a game to remember, primarily because of a brawl that Brian Flores himself instigated and ended with four players ejected. After an early hit by Mike Thomas on Jakeem Grant, who was violently laid out while returning a punt, Flores had to be physically restrained by his own players, which then resulted in a benches-clearing brawl. Devante Parker and Mack Hollins were both ejected for the Dolphins after exchanging blows with Shawn Williams and William Jackson III. Surprisingly, Grant returned to the game just a few plays later.

The biggest takeaways from this game are the sheer grit of this team, which bounced back after an incredibly disappointing first half performance (something you could never say about the Dolphins before), and the unity in the locker room. Multiple players were quoted calling the team “a family,” and insisting that they stand up for their teammates.

The Heat might not have a monopoly on “culture” in Miami anymore, thanks to Brian Flores.

5 Takeaways from Miami-Duke

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1. Jaelan Phillips might have only three games left with Miami 

 

It’s no secret that Miami has a top-5 defensive line in the country and a big part of that is Phillips. The UCLA-transfer has been on a tear in his first season with the Canes and had yet another dominant performance against Duke: 4 tackes, 3.5 TFL’s, and 1.5 sacks. Duke really had no answers for him all night and JP had many reasons to dance.

I’m not trying to leave out Quincy Roche’s performance (6 tackles, 3 TFL, 1.5 sacks) but man, it’s crazy to realize how far Phillips has come. Since medically retiring in 2018 due to injuries from a scooter accident, he arrived in Coral Gables weighing around 225-230 to 255-260 now. There’s not much left that he has to prove and it’s looking like the Canes will have three defensive ends (Phillips, Roche, and Greg Rousseau)  drafted in the first two rounds of the NFL Draft.

 

2. Tackling has improved tremendously

 

At times this season, it seemed as if the defense was in position to make plays a ton but there were too many arm tackle attempts or just an inability to wrap up. The defense had much better technique on Saturday and as a result, Duke’s yards at the initial point of attack and after the catch were very limited. To give you an idea of this in statistical form, if you were to base Duke QB Chase Brice’s performance off of completions/attempts, he had a really good day. Brice completed 20 of his 25 passes, but only threw for 94 yards. 

 

 

The Canes dealt with a lot of short passes but a lot of credit goes to not only the players (Bubba Bolden’s 9 tackles, Amari Carter’s 7 tackles, Keontra Smith, Bradley Jennings, Waynmon Steed) but also to DC Blake Baker and coach Diaz for making proper adjustments during the long, problematic layloff.

 

3. Miami’s future is bright at LB

 

The Canes were without four linebackers on Saturday: Sam Brooks, Zach McCloud, Avery Huff, and Patrick Joyner. That meant more time for a couple of the true freshmen: Corey Flagg and Tirek Austin-Cave. They did not disappoint by any means, as Flagg’s instincts and speed were on full display. As our own Jazz Santana on Saturday’s Sixth Ring post game show, there was a period of time in the second quarter where it seemed like even if he didn’t make the tackle, he was always around the ball or play. He finished with 5 tackles and one fumble recovery.

Tirek Austin-Cave had a solid game as well and finished with three tackles. 

 

Even with the Canes short-handed at the position and thinking this could be a long day because of it, Flagg and Austin-Cave as well as the rest of the linebackers really showed up to play.

 

4. The running game is absolutely capable with Navaughn Doanldson on the field 

 

The senior left guard made his season debut after opting to use 2020 as a redshirt year to nurse a nagging injury and get in better shape for 2021. He did not start but it’s clear from this play alone that he might be the best run blocker out of Miami’s other options at left guard, who are Jakai Clark and Ousmane Traore. He seals the Duke DT, which opens up a huge hole for Cam Harris. 

 

 

Miami might be out of contention for the ACC Championship but there’s still a lot to play for with two games left, including a possible Orange Bowl berth. Donaldson’s performances right now can also build a lot of momentum for next season, where the Canes will get ready to take on Alabama in the season opener. 

 

5. This team is capable of blowing teams out

 

I don’t even need to bring up what Miami’s biggest problem has been in the past few years and it’s been playing down to the competition. Miami has either barely squeaked by or lost to many teams that were absolutely inferior from a talent standpoint and it’s reassuring to know that this team is capable of dominating teams that are not on the same level as Miami. A big takeaway from this is that there absolutely is a culture shift in how coaches and players approach game preparation.

 

Be sure to look out for another episode of The Sixth Ring on Tuesday as we recap Miami-Duke and get into the need-to-know on recruiting as the Early Signing Period is right around the corner.

 

Stay tuned to @5ReasonsCanes and @PaulAustria_ on Twitter for the latest in Hurricanes news and catch us on The Sixth Ring show twice a week as well pre and post-game.

 

Also, sign up for an account on Prizepicks.com, where you can pick the over/under on fantasy projections on some of your favorite players. Enter the promo code “five” to double your initial deposit.

 

Dolphins Cardinals

Tua’s agent may have just leaked who the Dolphins starting QB will be

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The 2020 NFL season has been anything but ordinary.

Which could explain why the Dolphins have won 6 of their last 8 games and currently hold the 6th seed in the AFC.

Again, this has been a crazy year. But being a Dolphins fan never comes easy.

And after patiently waiting for The Franchise Tua Tagovailoa to supplant Ryan Fitzpatrick as the team’s starting quarterback, we’re now right back where we started.

Tua was unable to play last Sunday vs the New York Jets. And despite countless Twitter doctors misdiagnosing this as ‘JuSt A JaMMeD tHuMb’ , it appears that there is legit uncertainty surrounding who Miami’s quarterback will be Sunday vs Cincinnati.

Friday morning, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said Tagovailoa’s status was in doubt for Sunday’s game.

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We later heard from Brian Flores that the team would not be making a decision until IMMEDIATELY AFTER HE MET WITH THE MEDIA. Flores is treasure and is very much at the forefront of the Coach of the Year race. But this left a lot of Dolphins fans wanting to know more. And after roughly 24 hours, we may finally have our answer.

RUMOR: Tua Tagovailoa to start for the Miami Dolphins on Sunday (Not confirmed)

Minutes ago, Tua Tagovailoa’s agent Leigh Steinberg posted this on Facebook. And thanks to many diehard Dolphins fans, we may now have our answer as to who the quarterback is for Sunday’s game.

He later edited his post to say “Dolphins” instead of “Tua”. This was later confirmed by Twitter detective, Jimmy. Thank you, Jimmy.

What does this all mean? I really don’t know.

Maybe, Flores is trying to get back at Steinberg for leaking the news that Tagovailoa was going to be the starter earlier in the year. (Note: This has not been confirmed but we can all see the writing on the wall) Or, and more likely, Tua is going to be the starting quarterback Sunday vs the Bengals. A matchup that many believe Miami should win convincingly. But as we saw a few weeks ago in Denver and countless times throughout a league year, Any team can win on any given Sunday.

The Franchise

Final Yard

I’m not going to sit here and tell you with 100% confidence that Tua Tagovailoa will be the team’s starting quarterback Sunday, but it definitely seems that way. If reports are true that he practiced all week, why wouldn’t he be ready to go Sunday vs the Bengals? We’ve heard time and time again this is Tagovailoa’s team and if your plan is to have him play the Kansas City Chiefs, New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders and Buffalo Bills with the playoffs on the line–you have to let him get back out there vs the Bengals.

Furthermore, if you want to allow Tua to develop and build chemistry with the wide receiver, live game reps are of the upmost important. Oh, and can we please open the offense up a bit more and #LetTuaCook?

I don’t know if Tua will be the Dolphins starting QB tomorrow afternoon, but I do know one thing. Brian Flores is on his way to the airport to have a ‘talk’ with Leigh Steinberg.

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A different weekend for the Florida Gators

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The Florida Gators have played the Florida State Seminoles usually on the weekend after Thanksgiving for 61 years straight. Ever since 1958, this tradition has held strong and provided an exciting rivalry game for Florida sports fans.

Gators fans would have loved to have this annual rivalry game this year considering they are the 6th ranked team. While the Seminoles are a team with a 2-6 record this year, it’s safe to assume that the gators would’ve taken this years game.

Overall, the Gators take the all-time win record holding 36 wins, 26 losses, and 2 ties in these 64 games. The Seminoles have had very well-known names including Deion Sanders and Derrick Brooks compete in this rival game. The Gators brought all-time greats Jack Youngblood, Emmitt Smith, and Percy Harvin into these games.

The biggest win of all-time in these games came when the Gators shutout the Seminoles for a 49-0 win in 1973.

Due to COVID-19, the SEC had to change the college football schedule around. As the season started 3 weeks later, many games had to be moved or canceled to account for the schedule changes. One consequence of these changes was the cancellation of the 61-year tradition.

The hope for Gators fans is that they can continue the rivalry next year with a record-breaking win, but for this Thanksgiving weekend, they had to settle for the Kentucky Wildcats.

Tua Tagovailoa

5 Keys to Dolphins-Jets in Week 12

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The Miami Dolphins (6-4) enter Sunday’s Week 12 contest against the New York Jets (0-10) coming off a difficult loss in Denver. The Dolphins offense lacked rhythm and ultimately saw rookie QB Tua Tagovailoa pulled from the game. Miami’s defense couldn’t stop the run despite managing a pair of turnovers.

The Dolphins playoff hopes took a hit with the loss, but Miami can get back on track with a win over New York on Sunday.

Here’s a look at five keys for the Dolphins versus the Jets in Week 12.

Dolphins-Jets: O-Line Must Bounce Back

The Dolphins offense submitted an anemic performance last week. Tagovailoa was under siege from a Broncos defense that was missing its top pass rusher. Denver racked up six sacks and eight quarterback hits.

Rookie Solomon Kindley entered the game with a sore foot and exited in the second quarter. The line shuffled Jesse Davis to right guard at that point, but the play didn’t improve. Each lineman allowed pressures and sacks in what was the worst performance by the line all season.

They couldn’t protect their QB and couldn’t open holes for the running game. Miami managed just 56 rushing yards, one off the season low (55 against the LA Rams).

But not all of the blame lands on the linemen though. Tagovailoa held the ball too long on a number of occasions. He needs to be more decisive in the pocket and drive the ball to receivers that may not immediately seem open.

The line will have its hands full against a Jets defense that sends an extra rusher 30.9 percent of the time (10th-highest). Last week, Miami’s line struggled with stunts and twists, something they’ll need to sort out ahead of Sunday’s game

Get to Darnold

The Jets announced that Sam Darnold will start against the Dolphins. Darnold missed the last two games with an injured right shoulder. He also missed the game in Miami earlier this season.

The Dolphins defense will need to get back on track, a week after failing to sack the quarterback for the first time this season. And that’s the biggest difference for this defense.

In their six wins, the Dolphins piled up 133 quarterback pressures. In their four losses, just 46 pressures. The last time they played the Jets, Miami managed a season-high 29 pressures and three sacks.

Emmanuel Ogbah was a force against the Jets in Week 6, registering 10 pressures and two sacks against Joe Flacco. Both Flacco and Darnold struggle when pressured and are prone to mistakes. Darnold has thrown 34 interceptions in 32 games with the Jets and six this season in six games.

In four career games against the Dolphins, Darnold has four touchdowns and eight interceptions. He’s been sacked 11 times.

Dolphins-Jets: Get the Ball Downfield

Tagovailoa struggled in Denver despite not throwing an interception. Although he’s protected the ball well, Tagovailoa has yet to make very many plays down the field. Against the Broncos, he managed just 83 passing yards and 4.2 yards-per-attempt.

Too many of his throws are short. In three of his four starts, his yards-per-attempt has been under 7.0. After being pulled from last week’s game, Tagovailoa acknowledged his shortcomings and witnessed how Ryan Fitzpatrick nearly doubled his statistical output in a fraction of the plays. Some of that is play calling and situation, but the general point holds. Tagovailoa needs to challenge opposing secondaries with throws on target downfield.

Though Tagovailoa has been limited in practice this week with an injured thumb, this game against New York provides him the opportunity to take the next step in his development. The rookie has completed 61.9 percent of his passes for 602 yards and six touchdowns.

In Week 6 against the Jets, Fitzpatrick put up 191 passing yards and three touchdowns. He also threw two interceptions. If Fitzpatrick gets the nod in this one, he’ll lean on a stonier chemistry with DeVante Parker and Mike Gesicki, but he’ll need to take care of the football.

The Jets defense comes in after having allowed another rookie quarterback (Justin Herbert) to throw for 366 yards and three touchdowns. New York’s passing defense allows 288.3 yards-per-game (9th-most). The Jets start three rookies in their secondary and allow 30.2 points per game.

Stop the Run

The recent five-game win streak masked defensive deficiencies for the Dolphins. Although Miami sports one of the top secondaries in the league, the run defense has left much to be desired. The Dolphins surrendered a season-high 189 rushing yards and 5.7 yards-per-carry to Denver.

For the season, Miami’s run defense allows 4.8 yards-per-carry (27th) and 134.2 yards-per-game. The good thing is, the Jets don’t feature an overwhelming run game, but that’s mostly because they’ve been forced to pass. The Jets offense ranks 32nd in scoring (14.9 points-per-game) and total yards-per-game (268.6). Their 98.6 rushing yards-per-game rank 26th in the NFL.

The Dolphins welcomed back defensive tackle Christian Wilkins this week, which should help the run D. Wilkins missed the last two weeks while on the COVID list.

Dolphins-Jets: Next Man Up

Miami enters this Week 12 contest with a number of key injuries. The team has already listed recent starter at running back, Salvon Ahmed, as out. Kindley, too. Wide receiver and returner Jakeem Grant is listed as ‘questionable’ and Tagovailoa has been downgraded to ‘doubtful.’ Miami elevated QB Reid Sinnett from the practice squad.

Although Myles Gaskin, Miami’s leading rusher with 387 yards, returned to practice this week, he’s still on the injured reserve and would need to be activated before the game.

This uncertainty could affect the Dolphins pursuit of offensive consistency. The combination of youth and inexperience led to a number of difficulties last week. The team hopes to solve those issues against the Jets.

“Sometimes it’s protection, sometimes it’s holding the ball too long, sometimes it’s guys not getting open,” Chan Gailey said of the Dolphins difficulties in Denver. “I have to do a better job of calling plays where he doesn’t have to hold it.”

Rookie receiver Malcolm Perry, who saw 51 offensive snaps last week, could get more run if Grant’s out. Antonio Callaway, who played eight snaps and caught one pass versus Denver, could also see an uptick in opportunity. Recently acquired running back DeAndre Washington may also see more time should Gaskin remain unavailable. Washington’s played 14 snaps in two games, gaining five yards on two carries last week.

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Dolphins add star power in latest Tankathon Mock Draft

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Let’s take a look at what Tankathon has the Miami Dolphins doing in their latest three-round mock draft.

Yes, I know. It’s way too early to start talking about the 2021 NFL draft.

And how strange is that to say? Despite last week’s loss to the gritty Denver Broncos, the Miami Dolphins are currently 6-4 with the New York Jets and Cincinnati Bengals on the horizon.

Nevertheless, as the season plays out we’re starting to see the pieces the Dolphins are missing–primarily on the offensive side of the football.

Which is okay.

First, Albert Wilson and Allen Hurns opted out. #Respect

Then Preston Williams went down with an injury, that could put an end to his 2020 season.

And who can forget the Dolphins HELPING OUT THE NEW ENGLAND PATRIOTS and trading away Isaiah Ford. Which, say whatever you want about his long-term future in Miami, he was widely considered the smartest receiver in the room before his departure. He also had success in the slot, which is where the Dolphins need someone to step up.

But this isn’t about the 2020 Miami Dolphins.

This is about those four top-50 draft picks the team currently holds in next year’s draft–five in the top-81. And in year three of a rebuild, Chris Grier and Brian Flores know exactly what’s needed. And as I’ve said throughout, it starts with the offensive side of the football.

Let’s take a look at the latest Tankathon three-round mock draft!

The Franchise

 

First Round

The first few picks in the latest Tankathon mock draft is what you would expect to see in any mock. Trevor Lawrence goes #1 to the New York Jets followed by Justin Fields to the Jacksonville Jaguars. Oregon offensive tackle Penei Sewell lands in Cincinnati to protect Joe Burrow’s blindside #GetWellSoon and a personal favorite of mine lands in Dallas. Washington takes BYU quarterback Zach Wilson to round out the top-5.

But enough about the other teams.

What do the Miami Dolphins do to add firepower to their offense?

As things currently stand, the Miami Dolphins have the #9th overall pick thanks to Bill O’Brien and the Houston Texans. Miami could go a couple different directions with this pick but since Micah Parsons and Ja’Marr Chase have already been selected, the Dolphins turn their attention to another dynamic wide receiver.

With the 9th pick in the 2021 NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins select: Jaylen Waddle, Wide Receiver, Alabama.

If there is one thing that we’re quickly starting to learn this season it’s that the Dolphins offense is in dire need of playmakers. And the type of speed and big-play ability that Alabama wide receiver Jaylen Waddle would bring to this offense is immense. And we can’t overlook the chemistry he already has with Tua Tagovailoa. Yes, Waddle suffered an injury earlier in the season that could potentially affect his draft stock. But with whispers that he could try to make a comeback later in the season, top-10 might be his floor.

With the 17th pick in the 2021 NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins select: Creed Humphrey, Offensive Lineman, Oklahoma

 

 

I’m not going to sit here and talk negatively about Ted Karras, because I don’t think we get a full sense of what a center’s responsibilities really is without being on the field/in the huddle. But much like Daniel Kilgore last season, it’s clear the Dolphins could use an upgrade at the position. Which is why if Creed Humphrey is available with the 17th pick in the draft, you run to the podium. Humphrey is a mauler and if reports are true that Miami had interest in Cesar Ruiz last season, the writing is on the wall.

(Note: Yes, I am a huge fan of Travis Etienne and believed he was RB1 last season. As tempting as that would be–and I wouldn’t be upset–I think Humphrey would be the RIGHT move, especially based on what the Dolphins do in the next round.)

Round 2

The first pick in round 2 is going to make readers a bit upset. Because despite Miami Hurricanes pass-rusher Quincy Roche sitting ripe for the picking, Tankathon has other plans.

With the 40th pick in the 2021 NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins select: Patrick Jones II, EDGE, Pittsburgh

In the limited time I’ve spent watching Patrick Jones, you can see that he is a freak that can attack the quarterback in a variety of different ways. He’s also proven to be stout against the run, which is a trait the Dolphins so desperately need when looking for their future EDGE players. Adding Jones to the mix of young, impactful players in the house will open things up for Brian Flores and his staff and give them new ways to attack opposing QBs.

But that was only the first of the Dolphins’ two second round picks.

 

With the 50th pick in the 2021 NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins select: Najee Harris, Running Back, Alabama

As I alluded to above, the Dolphins pass on my RB1, but that’s okay. There are plenty of backs that are more than capable, and as we’ve seen with other positions, the scheme and the supporting cast has everything to do with a player’s success. With Etienne off the board, that leaves the perfect running back to pair with Tua Tagovailoa. Harris can do it all. And as easy as it is to compare him to the once-great Derrek Henry, you’d be crazy not to see similar players. What may be most impressive is Harris is a better receiver than Henry (IMO). Nevertheless, he’s exactly what Miami needs at running back to compliment the Myles Gaskin and Salvon Ahmeds of the world.

 

 

Jimmy Butler: The Leader is Being Overlooked

3rd Round

The fifth and final pick in Tankathon’s three-round mock draft is another versatile defensive back that could play all over Coach Flores defense.

With the 81st pick in the 2021 NFL draft, the Miami Dolphins select: Ar’Darius Washington, Safety, TCU

This will change many more times between now and April 23, 2020. With that said, how do you feel with Tankathon’s latest mock draft?

Josh Houtz (@houtz) is a die-hard Dolphins fan that believes Chan Gailey needs to #LetTuaCook.

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Dolphins Loss Broncos

5 Takeaways from Dolphins Loss to Broncos

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The Miami Dolphins (6-4) suffered a disappointing 20-13 loss in Denver (4-6). The game itself featured an offensive failure that led to rookie Tua Tagovailoa being benched.

This loss also pushed Miami from the postseason picture. The Dolphins are on the outside looking in at the AFC playoff bracket. They currently hold the No. 9 seed, losing tie breakers to both Baltimore and Las Vegas, the other 6-4 teams.

Here’s a look at five takeaways from the Dolphins loss to the Broncos.

Offensive Line Failure in Dolphins Loss to Broncos

One of the big questions heading into the quarterback switch from Ryan Fitzpatrick to Tagovailoa focused on the ineffectiveness of the offensive line. National pundits panned the move at the time, saying Miami’s line lacked the ability to properly protect their young QB. But local media pointed out that analysis as lazy, and it was.

The Dolphins offensive line had protected Tagovailoa well in his previous three starts. They’d handled pressure and kept Tagovailoa’s pocket relatively clean. Sunday, though, was a different story.

The Dolphins o-line surrendered a season-high six sacks, double the previous high. Beyond just the sacks, the line regularly allowed pressures and failed to open consistent holes for the running game.

The loss of rookie right guard Solomon Kindley in the second quarter hurt. And Tagovailoa also didn’t help his cause by holding the ball for too long.

Rushing Woes Continue

The Dolphins hoped they had something in rookie Salvon Ahmed. After a solid performance against the Chargers, Ahmed’s emergence led, in part, to the release of veteran Jordan Howard. The return of Matt Breida from recent injury also had Miami’s running game trending up. What’s more, they were facing a Denver rushing defense in the lower third of the league.

But against the Broncos, Miami’s ground game remained absent. The team totaled just 56 yards. Ahmed led the way with 43 yards on 12 carries. Breida picked up just four yards on two carries.

This lack of a consistent rushing attack shifted the offensive onus to Tagovailoa. It also allowed Denver to dial up the pressure on a rookie quarterback making just his second career road start. The result? Another anemic performance.

The solution to this issue remains unclear. A return by Myles Gaskin may help, but an ineffective ground game has plagued Miami for two seasons, through two different offensive coordinators. Opening up the playbook to allow the pass to set up the run may be the only way forward at this point.

No Fitzmagic in Dolphins Loss to Broncos

When Dolphins head coach Brian Flores pulled Tagovailoa from the game in the fourth, some speculated injury. Tagovailoa had just suffered a sixth sack, one that wrenched his lower right leg. The rookie had been on Miami’s injury report in the leadup to this game. Flores, though, dismissed that idea.

“Tua wasn’t injured. We just felt like it was the best move at that point of the game,” he said.

Fitzpatrick entered and immediately led Miami’s offense on a scoring drive. The veteran QB marched Miami down the field twice and flashed a chemistry with DeVante Parker and Mike Gesicki that Tagovailoa seemed to lack.

But all for naught.

Fitzpatrick maneuvered Miami into scoring position with a chance to tie the game. However, instead of connecting with Parker for a touchdown, Fitzpatrick failed to look off Broncos safety Justin Simmons and threw a game-sealing interception. Simmons secured the pick in the closing moments, though the Broncos had the chance to intercept two previous passes by Fitzpatrick.

Fitzpatrick finished 12-of-18 passing for 117 yards and the interception.

Seemingly Still Tua’s Team

Despite the late quarterback change, the Dolphins seemingly remain Tagovailoa’s squad. Miami made the switch from Fitzpatrick to the rookie after a 3-3 start with Flores citing Tagovailoa’s readiness to assume the role. The Dolphins kept rolling. But on Sunday, the rookie showed his youth.

What’s interesting here, though, is the move to Fitzpatrick implies Tagovailoa isn’t a ready as Miami made it seem.

“We had to get in two-minute mode, and we felt like [Fitzpatrick] gave us the best chance to win the game, and we had an opportunity at the end to tie it,” Flores said.

Tagovailoa went 11-of-20 for 83 yards and a touchdown, but showed little effectiveness moving the ball. The offensive playcalling didn’t help.

“When I was in, we couldn’t really get things going,” Tagovailoa admitted. “I couldn’t get the ball in the hands of our playmakers and our guys consistently to get a rhythm going.”

Sure, offensive line issues submarined Tagovailoa’s efforts, but so too did his ineffectiveness. He needs to develop a stronger chemistry with his receivers and find a rhythm for this offense to take the next step.

That said, Fitzpatrick admitted after the game that the Dolphins were still “Tua’s team.”

He said: “Tua is going to continue to get better and grow. There’s no controversy. This is his team. He’s going to lead this team and continue to lead the team.”

To his credit, Tagovailoa wants to learn from this. He remained engaged in the contest and picked Fitzpatrick’s brain on the sideline.

“For me, it was a great learning experience,” Tagovailoa said. “I felt like I was holding the ball a little too long. Just got to get completions and get the ball in the hands of our guys to make plays for us.”

Dolphins D Didn’t Do Enough in Loss to Broncos

Miami’s defense buoyed the team’s five-game win streak. Over that span, the Dolphins defense ranked first points-per-game allowed (17.2) and second in quarterback pressures (86) and completion percentage allowed (57.0 percent). They put up 10 takeaways, too.

In Denver, though, the Dolphins didn’t make enough stops. Although the defense extended its takeaways streak to 16 consecutive games, the longest active streak in the NFL, it wasn’t a banner day for the D.

Perhaps the biggest failing was the inability to stop Denver’s ground game. The Dolphins allowed a season-high 189 rushing yards and two touchdowns. The 5.7 yards-per-carry average stands as a full yard more than the previous season-high allowed (4.7).

What’s more, the Dolphins couldn’t seem to confuse Denver’s Drew Lock in the same way they did LA’s Justin Herbert a week prior. Lock piled up 270 passing yards, the most Miami’s allowed in more than a month. They also failed to pressure Lock consistently and did not sack him once. It’s the first time this season the Dolphins failed to secure at least one sack.

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The Miami Dolphins defense is legit

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While the Dolphins rookie quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has been in the spotlight for the Phins, the defense has been playing a huge role in the past three games. This defense, led by Emmanuel Ogbah and Xavien Howard has forced a turnover in all games this year except for the first against the Patriots.

The 43-17 win against the San Francisco 49ers, who had just gotten back Jimmy Garropolo and Raheem Mostert, was the first game that really showed off the Dolphins explosive defense. With 3 turnovers, they proved that they had what Miami has been looking for.

In the very next week, the Dolphins blew out the rival New York Jets 24-0. This was the dolphins first time shutting a team out since 2014.

The game that really proved that the Dolphins amazing defense was here to stay was in week 8 against the Los Angeles Rams. With 2 sacks, 2 interceptions, and 2 fumble recoveries, the defense led Tua to his first career NFL win.

If this series of games doesn’t prove that the Dolphins are for real, then I don’t know what does.

Although the team overall has had great defensive stats, this success can be shown specifically by two team-leading players. Defensive lineman, Emmanuel Ogbah leads the Dolphins with 8 sacks and 3 forced fumbles. Cornerback, Xavien Howard leads the team with 5 interceptions which is the second best in the league only behind J.C. Jackson with 6.

This Dolphins defense and team in general is too good to be slept on any more. I know all Phins fans can’t wait to hopefully see this team in the playoffs for the first time since 2017.

Dolphins Broncos

5 Keys to Dolphins-Broncos in Week 11

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The Miami Dolphins (6-3) travel to Colorado for their Week 11 matchup with the Denver Broncos (3-6). Originally slated as a bye week, this contest pits a pair of young quarterbacks against each other. The Dolphins are trending up with Tua Tagovailoa at the helm. Meanwhile, the Broncos come off a contest where their second-year signal caller coughed up four interceptions.

The Dolphins enter winners of five straight and find themselves in a soft stretch of their schedule. If Miami means to make a playoff push, the team can’t afford a loss to a struggling Broncos squad. The Dolphins stand among the six AFC squads with six wins thus far, so every victory remains necessary.

Here’s a look at five keys for the Dolphins in their Week 11 games versus the Broncos.

Dolphins-Broncos: Figure Out a Consistent Ground Game

The Dolphins head to Denver with the NFL’s 28th-ranked rushing offense, gaining just 98.7 yards-per-game thus far. The Broncos, though, allow 128.8 yards-per-game on the ground (23rd). And despite a turnstile in the backfield, Miami may have found something in rookie running back Salvon Ahmed.

Ahmed gained 85 yards on 21 carries in Week 10 versus the Chargers. He managed 4.0 yards-per-carry and scored a touchdown. He was actually at 91 yards in the fourth quarter before losing yardage on his final three carries. That said, most of his damage came on just a handful of runs.

In Tagovailoa’s three starts, Miami averages just 85.6 rushing yards-per-game, but one of those games was against the Rams, where the Dolphins offense needed to do very little. Over the last two weeks, the Dolphins have averaged 101 rushing yards-per-game.

Miami released running back Jordan Howard this week but should see the return of Matt Breida to the lineup. The combination of Ahmed and Breida should be more than enough to gain yards on the ground against a subpar rushing defense.

Attack the Quarterback

The Dolphins defense continued its stellar play this season in Week 10. Against the Chargers, Miami defenders registered two sacks and eight quarterback hits. Xavien Howard’s interception extended a 15-game long streak with at least one takeaway. And the Dolphins 15 takeaways this season are tied for fourth-most in the NFL in 2020.

Chargers wideout Keenan Allen revealed that the LA offense was confused by the Dolphins’ disguises on defense. Miami offered amoeba looks to LA’s rookie quarterback Justin Herbert on four different third-down occasions last week. That uncertainty kept the Chargers from finding a rhythm on offense.

With a pair of young quarterbacks, the Broncos could be facing a similar attack from Miami. Denver deploys multiple tight ends often, which could allow the Dolphins to send extra defenders at either Drew Lock or Brett Rypien. The Dolphins blitz 41.6 percent of the time, fourth-most in the NFL thus far.

Since the start of Miami’s five-game winning streak, the Dolphins defense is first points-per-game allowed (17.2) and is second in quarterback pressures (86) and completion percentage allowed (57.0 percent).

Dolphins-Broncos: Limit Denver’s Run Game

The Broncos sport a rushing attack that registers 106.6 rushing yards-per-game (19th). This figure belies the talent Denver rolls out in the backfield. Both Melvin Gordon and Phillip Lindsay are good running backs. The pair has combined for 852 rushing yards and six touchdowns this season.

The Dolphins, meanwhile, allow 128.1 rushing yards-per-game (22nd). They’re likely without Christian Wilkins for a second-straight week, though rookie Raekwon Davis played very well against LA. Miami limited the Chargers to 99 rushing yards on 29 attempts, a 3.4 yards-per-carry average.

Denver runs the ball on second down more than any other team in the league. If the Dolphins can keep Denver in third-and-long, attack the Broncos’ QB, whomever it is, becomes that much easier.

Take Care of the Football

This goes without saying for any contest. But limiting turnovers, especially in winnable games on the road, remains the best way to secure a victory. Last week against the Chargers, a botched snap led to a dramatic momentum swing in that contest.

Ted Karras’ bad snap led to a fumble with the Dolphins driving up 14-0. If Miami managed to score on that possession, they would’ve held a 17-0 or 21-0 lead and a strangle hold on that game. Instead, the fumble allowed the Chargers to get back into the game. They scored a touchdown and the Dolphins responded with a three-and-out on offense. Late in the second quarter, the Chargers were driving to tie the game.

Tagovailoa is yet to throw an interception this season, though there have been a couple of close calls. He’s fumbled twice (though one was the bad snap). If Tagovailoa plays another clean contest, the Dolphins should leave Denver with their sixth-straight win.

The Dolphins enter with a plus-5 turnover differential, tied for the fourth-highest rate in the NFL. The defense has managed at least one takeaway in all nine games this season and both Broncos QBs have been turnover prone. Lock threw four interceptions against the Raiders last week and Rypien threw three interceptions in his Week 4 start against the Jets.

Dolphins-Broncos: Don’t Get Complacent

Miami’s play of late has turned some heads. With seemingly unexpected wins against the Rams and Cardinals, coupled with the efficient play of Tagovailoa, the Dolphins are NFL darlings these days. That, plus the soft schedule this month, means Miami’s postseason dreams could become a reality.

That said, this contest has all the making of a trap game. Entering having won five-in-a-row and hearing football pundits praise their play might lead the Dolphins to let their guard down.

That can’t happen.

The Dolphins are one of nine AFC teams with at least six wins this season. Only seven of those will make the playoffs. Miami has the 19th-easiest remaining slate of games, based on strength of schedule, but that can’t rely on that. According to Tankathon.com, Baltimore, New England, Cleveland and Las Vegas, all teams vying for one of those playoff spots, each have easier schedules than the Dolphins.

And if Miami really has set their sights on an AFC East title, the Bills schedule is only slightly more difficult. Buffalo’s remaining opponents sport a .509 winning percentage.

The Dolphins have a chance to bank wins with this stretch of opponents. They’ve won five straight but need to win at least three more. Being 9-3 entering the home stretch of the schedule would all but guarantee a playoff spot.

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Miami’s final 3 games rescheduled, will not play until December 5

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On Monday, the Canes and the ACC announced the rescheduling of the last 3 of Miami’s games this season. They did specify “positive tests and subsequent quarantining of student-athletes within the Miami football team.” 

 

A direct quote from Miami’s press release from Canes AD Blake James: “We are disappointed that we will not be able to play the next two weeks as scheduled but this decision was made in the best interests of the health and safety of all teams. The health and safety of our student-athletes is always our top priority and we will continue to follow the conference’s protocols in order to safely and responsibly return to play.”

 

Miami was supposed to host Georgia Tech at home this coming Saturday on November 21st but that game has been pushed back to December 19th. This game might not even happen due to a stipulation that I will go into detail about later. 

 

Miami-Wake Forest was to be played next Saturday on November 28th, but that game has been pushed back a week to December 5th. Same thing goes for UNC-Miami, which has been moved from the 5th to the 12th. 

 

Here’s where it gets tricky. The ACC Championship is scheduled for December 19th, the same day as the rescheduled Miami-Georgia Tech matchup. The Canes will only play the Yellow Jackets if neither of the two teams (essentially Miami) are not in ACC Championship contention. 

 

Here’s the revised schedule as follows:

 

12/5 Miami at Wake Forest (previously 11/28)

 

12/12 North Carolina at Miami (previously 12/5)

 

12/19 Georgia Tech at Miami (previously 11/21)*

 

*Will only be played if game has no result on ACC Championship participants

 

Manny Diaz’s squad has done a fairly good job of limiting COVID-19 exposure to his team, especially for being based in one of the US hotspots. Miami has not had to reschedule any of its games up to this point in the season and they were close to being unable to play against Virginia Tech this past weekend due to a total of 13 missing players unable to play.