Dolphins Playoff Hopes Sink in Baltimore Harbor

Riding a six game winning streak, the Miami Dolphins came crashing down to reality in Baltimore getting trounced by the Ravens 38-6. From the opening kick, the Ravens proved much more worthy of a playoff spot than the flailing Dolphins. The middle of the Miami defense was dissected like a high school frog by Joe Flacco and whichever receiver he chose.

The Miami Dolphin linebackers were out of position the entire day as Flacco completed pass after pass to open receivers. Ryan Tannehill made bad decisions and seemed to be telegraphing his run/pass option leaving the Ravens a step ahead of the Dolphins in nearly every situation. The patchwork Miami offensive line was clearly over matched and the vaunted defensive line could not slow Flacco and the Raven’s passing game.

It was a miserable game for the Dolphins, one that showed where this team resides in the playoff picture. On the outside looking in. With four games remaining Miami’s post season hopes are still alive, but the cleanup crew after this game will be very busy. In a familiar theme, injuries on the offensive line betrayed the hopes of Miami Dolphin fans. Pro bowl tackle Brandon Albert and center Mike Pouncey watched their teammates struggle.

Adam Gase has his hands full this week as Miami begins another December looking undermanned against playoff caliber teams. Miami must get better quickly at home against the Arizona Cardinals before entering a three game AFC East season finale. At 7-5 Miami enters the final quarter of the season hanging on to playoff hopes. This team has outplayed expectations and yet the dismal performance in Baltimore rings hollow, like some know-it-all spewing, “I told you so” all over the Dolphin faithful.

Is it time to backpedal on where this team belongs in the big picture? Should Miami fans brace themselves for the inevitable December crash? This is the same team that leaped overwhelming hurdles at 1-4. Adam Gase must find a way to right a ship that nearly capsized in Baltimore harbor. Offensive line play clearly seems to be the determining factor for Ryan Tannehill, the running game and even the Miami defense.

When the Dolphins run the football, every other facet of their game plan seems to follow. Given time, Tannehill can pass the ball as well as any QB in the league. Given rest, the defense plays fast and loose, but converting only 4 of 13 on 3^rd down derailed the necessity of keeping Joe Flacco off the field.

Baltimore found a soft spot in the middle of the Miami defense and Vance Joseph never found an answer. It is about this time of the season that exposes the weaknesses of inferior teams in the NFL and Miami may have been exposed. Linebackers biting on play action left gaping holes for TE seam routes that Flacco exploited at will. Kiko Alonso played the game with a cast on his wrist, leaving Mike Hull and Neville Hewitt desperately trying to fill the void when he left the field. They proved unable to keep up with Pitta and Dixon.

The Dolphins must now exit the season much as they entered, with questions on the offensive line and at linebacker. Pouncey and Albert returning to the lineup could solve the line issues, but there are no pro bowlers healing in the wings at linebacker. The Dolphin defense can expect to see this same formula for the rest of the season and must find a way to sure up the middle.

Dolphin fans must temper their expectations with the reality that healthy horses are required over the long 16 game season. Only an off-season influx of talent at linebacker can solve the weakness on defense. Decisions must be made on the offensive line where availability may become the one ability Miami must reconcile with.

It should be interesting to see if Adam Gase and “leaders” in the locker room can squeeze four more games out of a team that relies as much on emotion as talent to win. As the playoffs approach, the teams with talent and emotion begin to proliferate the playoff brackets. Miami may find a place in the race, but this team seems a few pieces short of playing in January.

Miami Dolphins Week One Fifty-Three Man Roster Projection

The Miami Dolphins 2016 Training Camp begins today Friday, July 29th, and two weeks later they play a pre-season game at the NY Giants.

Here is whats likely to be concluded over the next six weeks.


Top 46 active upon the regular seasons Kickoff . (Starters Emboldened)
(Players 47 thru 53 could churn their way into the active 46 roster for any given games needs).

Offensive Twenty-Two
Quarterback (Game-Day ACTIVE Two)
1 - Ryan Tannehill
41 - Matt Moore


ACTIVE Eight, Game Day Offensive Lineman
Left Tackle
3 - Brandon Albert
30 - Jermon Bushrod career left tackle to play (guard & right tackle also), 2016 Free Agent


Left Guard
6- Laremy Tunsil (left tackle extraordinaire) rookie
49 - Dallas Thomas (likely on occasion to unseat right tackle Sam Young for the 45th spot)


Center
4 - Mike Pouncey
42 - Kraig Urbik (experienced C & G starter may win the right guard position), Free Agent


Right Guard could go either way including K. Urbik. (May the best man win)!
10 - Jamil Douglas
48 - Billy Turner (tough to put him out of the 46) but he's the least versatile while coach Adam Gase suggest that just 7 are likely to dress, and I'm already carrying 8. Meanwhile, he could very well take the job and force Douglas or right tackle Young outside the 46. Urbik is too important to the backup center position to be outside the 46.


Right Tackle
5 - JuWaun James
45 - Sam Young (guard also), Free Agent


Tight End (ACTIVE Two)
17 - Jordon Cameron
28 - Dion Sims


Running Back (ACTIVE Three)
13 - Jay Ajayi
27 - Arian Foster (Free Agent)
29 - Kenyan Drake (rookie)


Wide Receiver (ACTIVE Five)
14 - Jarvis Landry
15 - DeVante Parker
16 - Kenny Stills
39 - Leonte Carroo (rookie)
40 - Jakeem Grant (rookie)

Special Teams (ACTIVE Three)
23 - Andrew Franks
24 - Matt Darr
25 - John Denney



Toe The Line Twenty-Eight
Defensive Tackle (ACTIVE Four)
2 - Ndamukong Suh
9 - Jordan Phillips
32 - Earl Mitchell
33 - Chris Jones (Free Agent)


Defensive End (ACTIVE Five), could go with four if in need of TE, RB, QB, OL, LB or DB
7 - Cameron Wake
8 - Mario Williams (Free Agent)
34 - Jason Jones (Free Agent)
43 - Terrance Fede
44 - Andre Branch (Free Agent)
52 - Chris McCain (A great camp could potentially put he & DJ at 43/44), bad camp gets them cut.
53 - Dion Jordan (?????) Was drafted 2013 to be the eventual replacement to Cam Wake
Position is loaded with four highly experienced starters. Youth, size, plays made & reliability advances Fede.


Line Backer (ACTIVE Five)
11 - Kiko Alonso (Free Agent)
18 - Jelani Jenkins
19 - Koa Misi
37 - Neville Hewitt
38 - Zach Vigil
50 - Spencer Paysinger
51 - Mike Hull


Corner Back (ACTIVE Five)
20 - Byron Maxwell (Free Agent)
21 - Xavien Howard (rookie) currently on the PUP until week one. (Enter Lippett, Ifo, or Lucas)
26 - Bobby McCain (Slot Starter)
31 - Tony Lippett
46 - Ifo Ekpre-Olomu (Free Agent/Waiver-Wire Pickup)
47 - Jordan Lucas (rookie)


Safety (ACTIVE Four)
12 - Rashad Jones
22 - Isa Abdul-Quddus (Free Agent)
35 - Mike Thomas
36 - Walt Aikens




Others looking to make a training camp splash towards the 53 man roster, or ten man practice squad.
Quarterback
Zac Dysert FA
Brandon Doughty (rookie)

Tight Ends (at least one and/or another teams cut needs to step up into the 53, if not the 46)
Thomas Duarte (rookie)
Jake Stoneburner (2015 Dolphin)
Marqueis Gray FA

Running Back (same as outside looking in TE's)
Damien Williams (2015 Dolphin)
Isaiah Pead FA
Daniel Thomas FA

Wide Receiver
Griff Whalen FA
A.J. Cruz FA

Offensive Line
Jacques McClendon (2015 Dolphin) C/G
Ryan DiSalvo (rookie) Long Snapper

Defensive End
Cleyon Laing FA

Line Backer
James-Michael Johnson FA
Akil Blount UDFA
James Burgess UDFA

Corner Back
Lafayette Pitts UDFA
Tyler Patmon (2015 Dolphin)


Thanks for viewing, and we look forward to your angle of vision !!
What Say You ??


GOFINS!!!

New Years Miami Dolphins Offensive Additions 2016

One week into the New Years Free Agency period and the Miami Dolphins have acquired four defensive players (with 3 of them for sure being day one starters). Our favorite team came about these players via trade and/or as free agents that we spoke of at the previous piece titled Miami Dolphins 2016 New Year Defensive Additions. Those players include potential starter at safety Isa Abdul-Quddus, as well as definitive starters at Cornerback with Byron Maxwell, Middle Linebacker Kiko Alonso, and perennial star Defensive End Mario Williams.

Now comes the Offensive Additions of which.
Even the media, (haters of most every Miami addition) over the last however many years suggest that the lesser of the two offensive lineman that the Dolphins have signed in this New Year is a vast improvement over what existed at said positions in 2015.

2016's offensive landings thus-far include.

Swing Tackle Sam Young at 6 - 8, 320 pounds as a 6 year veteran Tackle was the Dolphins first offensive acquisition in Free Agency. He ( seen here detouring OV/others ) was acquired as a backup Tackle to fill the role of (Adam Gase' first day cut) of backup Jason Fox who struggled mightily while starting 11 games at one or the other tackle positions in 2015.

Young has been in the league since 2010's two games played with the Cowboys. In 2011 he wound up in Buffalo where he played in four games while in o12 he played in twelve Bills games and started four. He played for both the Bills (4 games) and Jaguars (11 games) in 2013. For Jacksonville in 2014 he started 6 of 9 games played, and in o15 he started 3 of all 16 games played.

Excluding the 2013 season when he played for two different teams, he has started more than a third of the games he played in while at Buffalo and Jacksonville (13 games started of 37 games played). With Miami as a swing tackle (meaning he can play either tackle position), Sam Young can (for the most part) focus on the right tackle backup position.


As The Dolphins second offensive addition in the 2016 Free Agency period was.


Left Tackle Jermon Bushrod who has started at that particular position in 96 of the 108 games he's played in over his 9 year career. He played in just 3 games of his first two years in New Orleans while his 96 starts have come over the last seven seasons with the (o9 - o12 Saints, and o13 - o15 Bears). Dolphin head coach Adam Gase was the Bears o15 Offensive Coordinator.

Miami hasn't had the commodity of a true Left Tackle on their bench for many a year, let alone a player with any starting experience whatsoever at the Left Tackle position. Whenever starting LT Brandon Albert has been out of the lineup for a breather or his annual injury the Dolphins have been filling the void with wanna-be right tackles (Jason Fox etc) and/or guards (Dallas Thomas etc) which suggest that those positions themselves have also been forced into fielding the lesser talents of the offensive line. Let-alone at the quarterbacks blindside protector position of LT.

With a pure Left Tackle behind Brandon Albert now on the roster the Dolphins offensive line has immediately become more stable as the true guards and right tackles can stay focused on the position at which they belong and not become a big fat Bull-Eye when playing out of position. Maybe those guards can even excel when surrounded by a pure right tackle Ju'Waun James/Sam Young, Center Mike Pouncey, and Left Tackle Brandon Albert (and/or Jermon Bushrod) should the occasion arise.

Meanwhile, both Young & (Bushrod who knows the LT position inside-out with his eye's closed) are willing to play the guard position, so that (if need be) they can get on the field before being needed at tackle in place of Ju'Waun James and/or Brandon Albert.

Jermon Bushrod is 6 - 5, 320 pounds as a nine year veteran Left Tackle with (again) 96 NFL starts, Two Pro-Bowl selections (2011/12), and a Super Bowl ring from his tenure with the Saints!


Folks suggest that Miami has done nothing to help the offensive line, and it's the only offensive position that the Dolphins have actually addressed. Well besides the re-signing of backup quarterback Matt Moore. Meanwhile player rates drop with each passing day, free agencies second wave has yet to crest and fresh sets continue rollin-in throughout the season, and the draft is still six weeks away.

Thank You for an open minded read,
and as always, we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!

GOFINS!!!


The Defensive Roundup can be re-viewed here ;
http://www.dolphinshout.com/2016/03/2016-miami-dolphins-new-year-defensive.html

1972's Miami Dolphins Remain Alone As The Pillar Of Perfection

The 14 & 0 Carolina Panthers of 2015 were beaten for the first time this season leaving the 17 & 0 Dolphins of 1972 as still the only team in NFL history atop the undefeated throne.


On the other hand. Miami's 2015 Dolphins have been quite the opposite while resembling what goes down the cracked porcelain base of the throne upon which you sit after your morning coffee. The Dolphins fell to 5 - 11 at home versus the Colts by a score of 18 - 12. They also climbed up to the overall 6th pick of the 2016 draft, and with a season ending loss next week versus the Patriots they could potentially move to the overall 3rd pick for a top offensive lineman.

Ryan Tannehill (histories most sacked quarterback over his first four years) was sacked 6 times today, and for the 44th time of the season. In next weeks final game he will have ended up on his butt more times than last years 46, and second to only 2013's fifty-eight times sacked. He has been sacked 44 times this year while our defense has sacked the opposing quarterbacks in 29 instances.

The rhyme to the reason remains to be the offensive line. One must understand that over the last (what will be 38 games at seasons end) the Dolphins intended starting five on the offensive line have played together in just five of those 38 games. THIRTY THREE times (more than two years worth of games folks) that Miami has been starting backup offensive lineman at multiple (2 to 3 if not 4) positions in each and every game.

At most times (already struggling) starting guards are playing out of position at one or the other (if not both) tackle positions. Which in turn causes a chain reaction of reserve players (on a quality of depth deprived team) to start at guard in place of what were the "already struggling" guards that the backups couldn't initially beat out for starting spots. It's truly become an avalanche rolling downhill that gathers, spits out and/or buries useless debris. The tackle, guard, and center positions need to play as one which is absolutely impossible when the same five established guys never play together in positions of familiarity, or even at the position that one might have played the previous week.

Left tackle Brandon Albert missed the first quarter of the season and took until mid season to get up to game speed at which point Right tackle Ju'Waun James got injured and 7 weeks later has yet to return while Center Mike Pouncey in three entire game instances was replaced by a rookie guard that never played center until this year. This or a variation of, is what has taken place or become the norm in 33 of the Miami Dolphins last 38 games, and Ryan Tannehill is getting his ass kicked because of it while unreasonably taking the brunt of the won loss record burden.

It is a display of pure ignorance and disrespect for anyone to expect anything more from Ryan Tannehill other than getting back up from 183 sacks while being blasted 100's of other times over the last four years. Yet he returns to start and finish 64 successive games which should garner nothing but praise for the Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill. Jiminy Fricken Crickets, he's practically getting hit as often as the offensive lineman are.

In spite of it all he's accrued an impressive resume of stats, imagine what he might be able to do with a consistent five on the offensive line, let-alone a fabulous five that couldn't help but extend stalled drives into actual scores. Center Mike Pouncey didn't play against the Colts. On the last offensive play of today's game, with mere seconds remaining on 4th down inside the oppositions five yard line and the game on the line. A rookie guard that never played center until this year snapped the ball prematurely on the first cadence of a called second cadence snap. Nobody other than the center moved whatsoever until after the nose tackle bull-dozed the center and engulfed Tannehill to end the game 12 - 18.

Rashad Jones dropped a sure interception inside of the Colts red zone on the games very first play. Brent Grimes had an interception reversed, and Ryan Tannehill had a touchdown pass reversed due to blatant officiating blunders. Meanwhile an obvious attempted trip of the quarterback by an engaged defensive player that kicked his leg out at a 90 degree angle and injured Tannehill with a forceful toe to the knee cap wasn't called and ended a Dolphin drive. Once again due to penalties and/or bad officiating, play calling, a lack of cohesion, missed opportunities, brain farts etc, etc, the Dolphins excelled at beating themselves while the opponents may not yet have beaten them this year if not for themselves.

Jarvis Landry last week surpassed O.J. McDuffie for the most receptions in a Dolphins single season. This week he topped the century mark at 104 receptions for 1,085 yards, and to go along with his 84 receptions last year he became the NFL's All-Time leader in receptions amongst histories two year players.


Thanks for enduring the pain!



Though the times and dates have yet to be determined.
Here is who the Dolphins will be playing next year.
Let's hope that the opposition is all they'll be up against!

Home Games
Cleveland Browns
Pittsburgh Steelers
San Francisco 49'ers
Arizona Cardinals
Tennessee Titans
New England Patriots
New York Jets
Buffalo Bills


Road Games
Baltimore Ravens
Cincinnati Bengals
St. Louis Rams
Seattle Seahawks
San Diego/LA Chargers
New England Patriots
New York Jets
Buffalo Bills


GOFINS!!!


As the previous 8 hour effort gathered just 16 comments other than the authors own, it's been acknowledged that most if not all are no longer interested. Therefore, unless something out of the ordinary takes place, this is likely it until February's Free Agency Period. Take Care : )) !!!!!!!

Miami Dolphins, Campbell's Soup, Mmmm-Mmmm GOOD

One Serving Heating Instructions;

Open One Can of specially blended Whoop-Ass Campbell's Soup, bring to boil, add spices of four takeaways, six sacks, five touchdowns with a field goal for the most Miami Dolphin points in six years, and serve with gatorade bath for Victorious Nutrition.

Upon a third straight loss two weeks ago a new Texas born interim sheriff by the name of Dan Campbell was designated to lead the town of Miami from dysfunction. On his very first day he brought the towns people into the streets and put them head to head in a wild west style shootout referred to as the Oklahoma drill which was intended to leave only the best men alive while also re-uniting those left standing. A fortnight later. The 2015 Miami Dolphins that even the most pessimistic of town-folk expected on the field of play this season finally came to fight on this Sunday against the Tennessee Titans.

To this point of a four game season the Dolphins had only led a game for mere minutes of a week one win. On this fifth Sunday, they led from the opening gun and never looked back at the carnage left lying between the hash marks. Miami took it's game opening drive 80 yards on 7 plays in 4:21 for a Jarvis Landry end-around TOUCHDOWN of 22 yards and a 7 - 0 lead.

The Titans fought back with a 10 play, 61 yard drive in 5:11 of their own that resulted in a field goal of 37 yards to pull within four points at 7 - 3. Miami returned the favor 5:22 later with a 10 play, 68 yard drive and Dolphins 30 yard field goal to end the first quarter with a 10 - 3 lead.

In four games plus one quarter, The Miami Dolphins Defense had accrued just one (opening day) quarterback sack on the season, but that was about to drastically change. On the Titans next drive which started at their own 20, in 3 plays with the aid of an unnecessary roughness penalty quickly moved to the Dolphins 41 yard line. On a 2nd down with 5 yards to go, a hindered by a hamstring injury till this day Cameron Wake notched his first sack of the season. Miami had stopped the following 3rd down play though a bogus roughing the passer penalty gave the Titans a first down at Miami's 33. Two plays later on a 3rd & 5, Wake sacked the opposing quarterback for a second time on the drive and forced a fumble that was recovered by the Dolphins Jelani Jenkins while the referee's suggested that it was an incomplete pass. Miami's new Head Coach threw the first red flag of his career and won the challenge that returned possession to the Dolphins at their own 27 yard line.

On the third play from the Dolphins 49, a Ryan Tannehill pass that glanced off the hands of tight end Jordan Cameron resulted in an interception and return to Miami's 29 yard line. On the fourth play of the Titans ensuing possession, Cameron Wake engulfed the Tennessee Quarterback for the third time on the day while forcing yet another fumble that was recovered and returned 31 yards to the Titans 34 by Jamar Taylor . Seven plays later Dolphin running back Lamar Miller scored his first TOUCHDOWN of the year from seven yards out for a Miami scoreboard lead of 17 - 3.

With 5:07 first half minutes remaining the Titans marched down to the Miami 31 yard line in 3 minutes on seven plays. On the eighth play Olivier Vernon gathered his first sack of the season of minus 12 yards (Miami's fourth sack of the day) that pushed Tennessee out of field goal range at the 2 minute warning, and forced a Titans punt two plays later.

Upon Dan Campbell's first interview as Miami's head coach, he suggested that the Dolphins will no-longer be conservative from either side of the ball. (If he hadn't already). He proved as much with a 17 point lead and 1:40 to go in the first half from his own 6 yard line as the Dolphins drove 62 yards in 10 plays to the Titans 32 before a miscommunication between Tannehill and Cameron resulted in an interception with 23 first half seconds to go. On Tennessee's second play, Cam Wake ended the half with his fourth sack of the day and season as Miami went to the tunnel with a fourteen point lead at 17 - 3.

Early in the second quarter (21 minutes into the game), The Miami Dolphins had accrued 181 yards of offense. By halftime they had mounted 275 total offensive yards with 144 coming via the ground attack and 100 of that coming from Lamar Miller while the defense accumulated five sacks and two fumble recoveries in allowing just 3 Titan points as Tennessee fans booed their home team off the field.


Upon Tennessee's opening second half drive of 32 yards on 6 plays, the Dolphins linebackers Jelani Jenkins (-5), and Koa Misi (-9) notched-up two TFL's (tackles for loss) in a 3 play span to force a Titans punt. Miami followed with a stalled five play possession of 19 yards, and Tennessee fair caught the punt at their own 13 yard line. On the 5th play of a 14 yard possession Miami's star safety Rashad Jones intercepted the Titans star quarterback which he returned To'Da'House with an end zone full-gainer with a half twist dive for a Pik-Six TOUCHDOWN and 24 - 3 Dolphin scoreboard advantage.

After exchanging three and outs, with 2:14 remaining on the third quarter clock the Titans took the ball from their own 48 and into the Miami end zone in five plays to pull within 14 at 24 - 10 as the third quarter ended.

Miami followed with their second consecutive three and out (for zero yards) from their own 22 yard line, and things started to get a bit sketchy as the Titans returned the punt along with a Miami penalty to the Dolphins 37. "Started to get a bit sketchy", but on the Titans first play, a pass to the end zone was brilliantly intercepted by the one and only Brent Grimes.

The Dolphins after dominating throughout quickly realized how close they came to letting the Titans back into the game, and threw a second can of Campbell's Soup (Special Whoop-Ass Blend) onto the burner.

From their own 3 yard line on first and ten, Tannehill threw a 38 yard dart down the sidelines to Kenny Stills, followed by a 24 yard pass to Rishard Matthews, and a 13 yard pass to Jarvis Landry to the Titans 22. A holding penalty on the next play pushed them back to the 32. On first and 20 from the 32, Tannehill hit for 12 yards the newly re-acquired running back Jonas Gray who followed that with 3 successive runs of 7, 6, and 5 yards to the Tennessee 2 yard line. On second and Goal To Go, (another key ingredient) to everything that Miami wants to do on offense made his first significant play since being injured and off the active roster since the first quarter of week one. With half of the 4th quarter ticks to go Ryan Tannehill hit the wide-open Tight End Dion Sims for a TOUCHDOWN and 31 - 10 visitors advantage.

At this point Tennessee was in four down territory no-matter where they might be on the field, and followed the Miami touchdown with a five and out on downs for 21 yards. The Dolphins took over possession at the Titans 47 yard line, and didn't take their foot off the gas as they went that same 47 yards on 7 plays. Tannehill hits Jordan Cameron for 12 yards and "Another Miami Dolphins TOUCHDOWN" for a 38 - 10 VICTORY!


When all was said and done.
Miami's defense had sacked Marcus Mariota six times (four via Cam Wake which included two forced fumbles) recovered by (Jelani Jenkins and Jamar Taylor), and picked him off twice with one via (Brent Grimes) and the other (Rashad Jones) being for a Pik-Six To'Da'House .

Ryan Tannehill (with the return of Left tackle Brandon Albert and Tight End Dion Sims) was sacked just twice, and had two interceptions of not entirely (if at all) his fault. The Dolphins had no other turnovers.

Tannehill went 22 of 29 for 266 yards with two touchdown passes while Mariota went 21 of 33 for 219 yards with one touchdown pass.

Lamar Miller rushed for 113 yards on 19 game attempts (with 100 yards in the first half) and a touchdown, while others shared the second halves remaining 13 attempts. Rishard Matthews led through the air with six catches for 85 yards, Kenny Stills had the long reception of the day for 38 yards from Miami's own 3 yard line while Tight Ends Jordan Cameron and Dion Sims scored touchdowns.

The Dolphins accrued 434 total net offensive yards with 180 coming via the ground attack on 32 attempts (20 more opportunities on average than they had been offering). The Titans gathered 299 total yards with just 63 coming on the ground (100 fewer on average than Miami's defense had been allowing over the season's first four games). Ndamukong Suh caused pressure all day, and deflected two passes at the line of scrimmage. Miami held possession for nearly four minutes longer than Tennessee.

Here's to Dan Campbell, his new staff, and the real MIAMI DOLPHINS!
Thank You and CONGRATULATIONS!

THANK YOU for an open-minded read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!

GOFINS!!!

Miami Dolphins 2015 Prognosticated Offensive Roster

The Miami Dolphins are 24 days shy of Training Camp 2015's July 30th start which is two weeks previous to Pre-Season Game One at Chicago's Bears on August 13th.

Each NFL team has a 53 man roster while just 46 can dress on game-day.
Here's an Early Bird look at the Miami Dolphins Offensive Nest.


Special Teams (3)
Long Snapper John Denney
Punter Brandon Fields
Kicker Caleb Sturgis


Offensive Lineman (9)

Starting Center
Mike Pouncey, 6-5, 305, Age 25, 5 years experience (2014 Pro-Bowl Guard)

Left & Right Tackle
Branden Albert, 6-5, 310, 30, 8
Ja'Wuan James, 6-6, 318, 23, 1

Left & Right Guard
Dallas Thomas,6-5, 315, 25, 3
Billy Turner, 6-5, 315, 23, 1

Second String & Backups
Center
J.D Walton, 6-3, 305, 28, 6 (Sixteen 2014 starts as NY Giants Center).

Tackle
Jason Fox, 6-6, 310, 27, 6

Guard
Jamil Douglas, 6-4, 304, 23, Rookie
Jeff Linkenbach, 6-6, 325, 28, 6
(Both are possibilities to supplant Thomas and/or Turner),
as is Pouncey if all else fails.


Offensive Lineman Outside of the 46, Looking in at a 53 Man Roster Spot
C/G Sam Brenner, 6-2, 310, 25, 2
OT Mickey Baucus, 6-8, 293, 23, Rookie
G Jacques McClendon, 6-3, 324, 27, 4
G Donald Hawkins, 6-4, 310, 23, 2
G Michael Liedtke, 6-3, 305, 23, Rookie
G Aundrey Walker, 6-6, 315, 22, Rookie
G Dionte Savage, 6-4, 343, 23, Rookie
Watch the waiver-wire for released veteran tackles.
(Dolphins are extremely thin at Tackle, fingers crossed for Brandon Albert's health)!


Tight-End (3)
Jordan Cameron, 6-5, 249, 26, 5
Dion Sims, 6-4, 265, 24, 3

On The Bubble
Arthur Lynch, 6-5, 255, 25, 1

Potential Bubble Busters and/or 47th thru 53rd thru Developmental Squad Participants.
Tim Semisch, 6-8, 267, 23, Rookie
Jake Stoneburner, 6-3, 249, 25, 2
Gerell Robinson, 6-4, 220, 25, 2



Running-Back (3)
Lamar Miller, 5-10, 224, 24, 3
Jay Ajayi, 6-0, 221, 22, Rookie
Damien Williams, 5-11, 221, 23, 1

Outside Of The Perennial 46 Man Game-Day Roster
LaMichael James, 5-9, 195, 22, 3
Mike Gillislee, 5-11, 216, 25, 2



Wide-Receiver (4)
DeVante Parker, 6-3, 209, 22, Rookie
Kenny Stills, 6-0, 194, 23, 2
Jarvis Landry, 5-11, 202, 22, 1
Greg Jennings, 6-0, 195, 31, 9

Hoping To Catch Potential Fifth Receiver Game-Day Position. (1)?
Rishard Matthews, 6-0, 215, 25, 3
Matt Hazel, 6-1, 202, 23, 1
LaRon Byrd, 6-4, 225, 25, 2
Tommy Streeter, 6-5, 215, 25, 2
Michael Preston, 6-5, 213, 26, 2
Tyler McDonald, 6-3, 190, 24, 1
Nigel King, 6-3, 210, 22, Rookie
Christion Jones, 5-11, 187, 22, Rookie
Damarr Aultman, 5-11, 198, 23, Rookie



Quarterback (2)
Ryan Tannehill
Matt Moore

Outside, Lookin-in at the 53 man roster.
Josh Freeman
McLeod Bethel-Thompson

Game-Day (46)
3 Special Teams
9 Offensive Linemen
3 Tight Ends
3 Running Backs
5 Receivers
2 Quarterbacks
25 Total


With Four Wide-Outs, and Three Tight-Ends totaling Seven true receiver options.
Does Miami need a fifth game-day Wide-Out?
If so? Only 21 Defensive Roster Spots would remain!
How-Bout a fourth running-back, OR another tackle?
At which point only 20 roster spots would remain for the DEFENSE!


Stay-Tuned for 21 Defensive Game-Day Roster Spot suggestions.

Thank You for an Open-Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!

GOFINS!!!

Miami Dolphins Have Perfect Vision.

Twenty-Twenty.

On Monday May 18th the Miami Dolphins and their 2012 first round draft pick came to terms on the Franchise Quarterbacks second contract.

The 26 years young Ryan Tannehill is now scheduled to be the face of the franchise, and quarterback of the Miami Dolphins through the 2020 NFL season.

"We are committed and believe in Ryan as our quarterback for the long-term," GM Dennis Hickey said.

""We are thrilled that we were able to sign Ryan to an extension," Dolphins vice president Mike Tannenbaum said in a statement. "He is an ascending talent, a team leader and checks all of the boxes you are looking for at the position."

Since being selected with the 8th overall pick of the 2012 draft Tannehill has started all 48 Miami Dolphin games while defenses have batted him around like a Pinata. He has improved with each year despite having to adjust to two different General Managers, two different offensive coordinators schemes while working behind an injury prone, revolving door of an offensive line, and a void of skill players to threaten the opposition.

In 2014 (his first year under coordinator Bill Lazor) he completed the most passes for a single season in Dolphin history (surpassing Danny Marino) while connecting on 66.4 percent of his attempts for 4045 yards with 27 Touchdowns and just 12 interceptions. The first time that Miami has had a quarterback with a two to one touchdown to interception ratio since 2008 and Chad Pennington's (19 & 7).

The Dolphins started five offensive lineman in 2014 that weren't starters for them in 2013 (a first in NFL history), and they were a top ten offense before an injury epidemic infected the entire team over the final six weeks of the season. For 2015 Miami has three returning starters on the offensive line with All-Pro's Brandon Albert at Left Tackle, Center Mike Pouncey, with the highly productive 2014 rookie Ju'Waun James at Right Tackle while numerous other highly qualified returnees as well as rookie Jamil Douglas will vie for the two guard, and depth positions.

Miami has also upgraded the total package of skill players with Charles Clay being replaced by Pro Bowl tight end Jordan Cameron (who at 6-5 had four touchdowns of forty or more yards in 2014 which is a first from the NFL tight end position in some 13 years). The Dolphins also severely upgraded the one two punch at running back with the draft acquisition of Jay Ajayi who's a second round talent that Miami stole in the fifth round.

Along with the signing of veteran free agent/wide receiver contributor/mentor Greg Jennings. A far more technically sound, youthful and hungry Kenny Stills is replacing the similar skill sets of the hard headed quitter, and now departed Mike Wallace. Stills is a true number two Wide Out as is Wallace who (due to an absentee necessity) had been played out of position as the Dolphins number one Wide Out. The Dolphins and their quarterback have played without a true number one Wide Out option since Brandon Marshall was told to take his ball and go home which took place in cohesion with the Miami selection of Ryan Tannehill.

In May of the year 2015, The Miami Dolphins drafted at pick fourteen of the first round their Big, Tall, Do'It'All, True Number One Wide Out in DeVante Parker while signing to long term deals both he, and their three year veteran Franchise Quarterback Ryan Tannehill.

CONGRATULATIONS to The Miami Dolphins, and Ryan Tannehill !!

And that's just the summarized jest of the offense!
The Defense has also been substantially upgraded!

THANK YOU for an Open Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!


GOFINS!!!

Miami Dolphins Break Ground, Plant Flag On Foundation Of Superstar Ndamukong Suh

On Wednesday, March 11th at 4pm EST, shortly after pen was put to paper towards a six year 114 million dollar contract, Ndamukong Suh was introduced to the public by the Miami Dolphins Brass as their newest addition. Ndamukong (which means King Of Spears) was the second overall pick of the 2010 drafts first round. He is also a four time Pro Bowl starting selection, and three time All-Pro First Team representative as one of the most consistently productive players over his five year career.

His Dolphin contract averages out to 19 or so million per year which is approximately 5 million less than Detroit was scheduled to pay him, had they kept him for the 2015 season. The Lions attempted to talk him down to 18 million for 2015, but he decided to check out his value on the open market. In allowing Suh to leave while still owing him some 9 million dollar's, and having to trade a fourth plus a fifth round pick for the rights to his positional replacement, (Haloti Ngata of Baltimore who's no Suh) at another 9 plus million dollars. Detroit will be paying 18.2 million dollars as well as those 4th and 5th round traded draft picks for their one (vacated by Suh) defensive tackle position in 2015. Seems as though that the Lions should have simply franchised him rather than forfeiting future draft picks while giving the Miami Dolphins the opportunity to land this blockbuster of a man!

For a third consecutive year The Miami Dolphins have landed The Number One overall free agent prospect in the league with receiver Mike Wallace, offensive tackle Brandon Albert, and now defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh. A press conference took place, and Mike Tannenbaum said "To get a player of Ndamukong's stature says a lot about our organization. The fact that he chose us speaks volumes about our organization, our chance to win and the foundation that has been laid here."

Suh stated that he learned a lot about the Miami Dolphins in their 2014 head to head match up in that "they were talented, well coached, played hard, never quit even after suffering injuries to major starting cogs such as Brandon Albert early-on, and that they were very tough to beat". Suh sacked Tannehill on Miami's second play of the game as Detroit jumped out to a 10 - 0 first quarter lead with 121 yards to Miami's one. Tannehill led the Dolphins on an impressive late fourth quarter go ahead touchdown drive just before the defense faltered to allow a last second game winning Lions touchdown in Detroit.

Suh said that "he's looking forward to playing next to the great Cam Wake, as well as opposite of him" and that "There's no way I can do it by myself. I want to be — without question — a cornerstone of it, but at the same time, our quarterback is going to be a cornerstone in Ryan Tannehill, who I have a lot of respect for because he has taken my hits and has given me some tough times in chasing him around. At the end of the day, I just want to be a cornerstone with this franchise and continue to do my part, on the field, as well as off the field." Suh and Wake are two players of which both require a minimum of two blockers in order to keep from getting to the oppositions quarterback which leaves numerous others versus one on one, if not unblocked entirely for the most part of every given game!

The "King Of Spears" also suggested. "I love going against Tom Brady we have a great mutual relationship, I've seem him at the Pro Bowl, played against him in the regular season, and I look forward to seeing him twice a year, he's a great quarterback, I hope he's around for a few more years so that I can get after him, he's a great quarterback, Congratulations to him if he hears this."

Previous to a late November 2014 game against the Detroit Lions. New England Patriots coach Bill Belichick had this to say about Ndamukong Suh.

""He changes everything, you can't let him penetrate or he'll foul the whole play up. You've got to be able to secure him on the line of scrimmage and again, that's a lot easier said than done, because of his talent and also some of the different looks they give you. He's very disruptive in both the running and passing game. He's got great effort. He makes plays in pursuit and on the backside. So, really there is no weakness to his game. He's got to be blocked on every play no matter what the play is."" HOW DO YOU DO, MY NAME IS SUH !


THANK YOU for an Open Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!

GOFINS!!!

To Keep, or Not to Keep?

Ladies and Gentlemen. We bring you deep passages from the memoirs of Tony Nicoletti.


I noticed that there was some discussion after my last blog, (Fear Not Dolphin Fans. The Miami Dolphins Will Rise Again!) regarding all the quality players that Joe Philbin has let go of, during his first few years with the Miami Dolphins. While none of us necessarily agree with all the moves that were made, you do have to give him credit for being decisive and holding to a specific vision of what he is trying to accomplish in Miami.

Who's to to say that Joe Philbins, (previous GM, Jeff Ireland) or current GM Dennis Hickey's personnel decisions were bad moves. Especially, those that involved players who were a cancer to the team. Being the new head coach with the Dolphins, Joe Philbin inherited a bunch of leftovers from the, "Tony Sparano" era in 2012. The wholesale housecleaning was going to have to be done sooner or later. Fortunately, it happened sooner.

A change of scenery can be a wake up call for marginal players and some of them wisely, got their act together for their new ball clubs. Their new Coaches/GM's knew of what kind of baggage they were getting with these players. It was already determined that their skill set is needed and welcomed, despite some of their negative traits. However, specific ground rules and incentives are put in place to encourage these players to make the best of their new opportunity, thus taking some of the gamble out of recruiting them. And many of these players also came to realize that this is or may be their last chance and if they screw up they could very will be out of the NFL, altogether. That is why it is not uncommon for these players to prosper with their new team.

We all know that there will always be, "divas" and, "me first" type players in the game. It's part of their competitive nature. I believe the better coaches find ways to incorporate these talented yet, troublesome players into their game plan. They have the ability to determine if the gifts, talents and upside these players bring to the table are worth being patient and working around their eccentricities.

Trouble makers, questionable character on and off the field and all the things that undermine and detract from the goals that a coach is trying to establish with his team, can not be tolerated. And unfortunately, when a coach first takes over a franchise, these are things that he has to assess and weed out quickly. In many instances, he doesn't have the time to sit down with each and every player to make that determination. Especially during the off season when he is trying to familiarize himself with his new surroundings, assemble a coaching staff and get every one on the same page. And then there is the fact that they may have as many as 90+ players at some point, all trying out for the team.

An astute coach can ascertain whether divas are for real or just full of themselves. If they are being selfish in their demands to be a bigger part of the game plan or if there is a possibility they really can contribute more, (if given the chance). They can also tell if it is frustration that causes a player to complain and act out in ways that are unbecoming to a team, and when it is necessary to discipline them or just let them blow off some steam.

Case in point: Mike Wallace.

He is not so much the diva that many top wide receivers are. He tries to put on airs that he is a team player. He has a good work ethic and no, "off the field" issues. He hasn't been as spectacular catching the deep ball as he was with the Steelers. (Catching only about 25% of the long passes that were thrown his way last season). He is not known for being a receiver that will go up and fight for the ball. (Although in 2014, he has shown that he is willing to be aggressive and fight for extra yardage after the catch). It's not certain what really took place in that final game when he was benched in the second half because he supposedly, quit on the team.

To Wallace's credit, he's been successful in his new role and has contributed greatly to this offense. He has demonstrated a willingness to adapt and has proven that he is not just a one trick pony, only capable of using his speed to get down the field to catch balls. But is his performance worth all those millions? His production certainly cannot easily be replaced, on the cheap. And Miami does need to recoup some cap space to bring in some free agent help. (Which makes him a potential target, being the highest paid player on the Dolphin roster). Of course, all of this may be a moot issue if Joe Philbin decides to let him go because of his disenchantment with how he is being utilized and occasional complaints to that end.

If Philbin and Hickey decide not to keep him, a trade is not likely to happen since his contract will come at too high a price for even the most desperate of teams to pick up. Chances are, Miami would wind up having to eat a big chunk of change and dead cap money if they let him go. But one has to wonder if he, (and players like Jared Odrick, who has also let his feelings be known as well) will be on the roster this season.

But as coach Philbin's tenure moves forward and hopefully, draws closer to molding the team into what he feels will be a competitive ball club, an occasion may arise where he has to make a tough decision on a difficult player, again. To summarily dismiss good, talented players is a waste of resources. Especially with a seasoned coach. It's one thing to draw the line and set an example for the rest of the team as to what will be acceptable behavior. But over time, these problems should diminish as the front office, coaching staff and players become better aware of what type of personnel and atmosphere he is trying to cultivate. I would like to think a coach should evolve enough to learn from his past mistakes with the many players that have come and gone.

It's easy in hindsight, to say that Philbin never should have let go of this or that player because they are now model citizens with their new team and/or went on to become great players. We should actually be happy for these reformed players. I mean, isn't it better to know that the players that were given a chance on the Dolphin roster at any given time, did have the potential to eventually play for another franchise? What would it say about the Dolphin recruiting department if a majority of it's choices were found to be unsuitable and could not make it in the NFL at all?

Selecting football players is a crap shoot. Sometimes a team has to sift through some crap to find a jewel and this Miami Dolphin's front office and coaching staff have uncovered a number of gems over the years. Players that do not necessarily fit the typical physical tangibles that are usually associated with a given position. They may lack size or speed but their willingness to work hard, study and prepare, more than compensates for any deficiencies they may have. (Charles Clay comes to mind). He is not the big bodied Tight End target that all coaches covet, but still manages to win his match ups and when healthy, is a defensive coordinators nightmare.

The Dolphins are not opposed to beating the bushes to find players through unconventional means. Cameron Wake, whom we acquired from the CFL is one such example. We have several players from small, obscure colleges that have shown tremendous promise and upside. Like Walt Aikens and Terrence Fede. And let's not forget the injured players that came to the Dolphins whom have become important fixtures on this team. We took a chance on Brent Grimes who was recovering from a serious injury, and on an injury prone Brandon Albert. Both of them are excellent players. (Hopefully, Albert will be again, after his return from major knee surgery).

So you see, Coaches and General Managers are constantly taking chances and gambling with players. Forever searching for the right personnel to fit their schemes, attitude and team identity. Every franchise has allowed a fair share of talented players to slip through their grasp. It is futile for head coaches and general managers to lament and second guess their decisions when they let these players go. All they can do is learn form their experiences, forge ahead and continue their quest to build the best roster they can. It's the nature of the game and how dynasties are made.

As fans, we don't get to see what is actually going on behind closed doors. We only see players come and go. Some of whom, do well with other teams. (Which can be a little puzzling and disconcerting). Rest assured, there are reasons why teams lets go of what appear to be, "good players".

There are instances where some teams have no choice. Cap space limitations or positions that they are well stocked in, force them to release these surplus players so they can free up roster and cap space to pursue other players that they need. Perhaps a new coach or coaching staff has been brought in with a different system which may require them to cut players that do not fit or cannot adapt to these new systems and schemes. It doesn't always mean that these free agents are flawed in some way and unworthy of a roster spot with their previous team.. You need to make room to bring in and develop new players. Sometimes it means getting rid of decent players, as well.

As I write this blog today, I am relieved to see an article claiming that Mike Wallace has been able to sit down with Dennis Hickey to discuss his future with the team. I'm glad that they are trying to work out their differences. I also saw a story about Jared Odrick. The Dolphins have approached him to negotiate a new contract to avoid losing him to free agency.

Could it be that Joe Philbin has finally reached the point in his coaching career with the Dolphins, where he is able and willing to deal with outspoken, problematic players instead of arbitrarily sending them down the road? It's about time.This is definitely a step in the right direction. I'm hoping the Miami Dolphins are able free up the cap space to secure the free agent/draft picks they need to make a push for the playoffs in 2015.

Only then can the question be answered: To Keep, or Not to Keep. Lets hope Joe Philbin and company are keepers!

Go Dolphins!

Miami Dolphins Halt Offensive Line Crime Spree

The outlaws had been on a run of numerous assaults to the laws of the land while holding high ranking positions of leadership within the town. During the previous year alone, the corrupt five had allowed the local bank to be sacked of the peoples money fifty-eight times.

Town-Folk as well as admirers were tired of being assaulted and insulted ! They sent word to the Governor Stephen (William J Lepetomane) Ross, and demanded change! Ross obliged with the termination of Mayor Jeff (Hedley Lamarr) Ireland, and the forming of a good character chasing, white hat wearing mob.

The appointed Dolphins Posse Leader Dennis (I'm your Huckleberry) Hickey along with Partners Joe (Earp) Philbin, and Dawn (Kitt) Aponte rode into Miami with the intent of ridding the passionate town folks of the bad boy gang.

With guns a blaze'en, they permanently exiled offenders Richie (Mongo) Incognito, Jonathan (Squeeky) Martin, and John (Marshmallow) Jerry. Other lesser involved suspects that include Bryant McKinnie, and Tyson Clabo are being tracked for potential questioning of future urgency.

Upon the retaking of righteousness in Miami. Hickey brought in hired guns of fortune with the likes of Brandon (Lefty) Albert, interior tough guy Shelly (The Gate Keeper) Smith, and Jason (The Sly T&G) Fox. As the news of good things to come spread throughout the territory, others of high character came along to seek roles of leadership.

Those warriors of good include drafted Volunteer Ja'Wuan (Right Hand Man) James and his 49 consecutive gun fights from the right side.

A drafted consecutive 30 games starting left tackle out of North Dakota State, Billy (The Bison) Turner projects to become an NFL five position trick shooter and/or main attraction.

The durable, interior pivot player Tyler Larsen of Utah State has 51 consecutive games started at Center as a four year offensive line shot-caller.

Arizona States Evan Fickenberg has 44 career starts at left tackle. He can obviously compete as a backup at the left or right tackle positions and/or as an NFL Guard for the bank

Beyond the above mentioned the Dolphins also acquired Arkansas' David Hurd who was a 2012 thru 2013 starting left tackle for the SEC's Razorbacks. During the 2012 season he, his line mates, and team broke twenty Arkansas and/or SEC offensive production records, (for the most part) via the passing game.

Another addition was New Mexico States Davonte Wallace and his 48 consecutive starts over four years, for the most part at left tackle. He stepped in on day one along side established veterans, and almost immediately became the teams best lineman while having to adjust his game for a plethora of Aggie offensive line coaches over the years. Of his college career Davonte said, """First of all, it was very scary, I was a skinny little nothing. Wasn't very strong. Just did things right. Took coaching. Whatever they told me to do, I did it. If I didn't understand it, it's something I'd ask them over and over. I kept doing stuff over and over, until I got it right. That's probably how things turned out the way it did."" Something that ""Squeeky"" might have considered?

Too boot. The Miami Dolphins retained the rights to the NFL elite center Mike Pouncey, and pre-determined 2013 backups of which received invaluable playing and/or starting experience repetitions last year. Those got'your'back guys are Dallas (G/T) Thomas, Nate (G/T) Garner, David (T/G) Arkin, and Sam (C/G) Brenner.

All in all a bunch of shiny new badges have been pinned to chest.
The currently unemployed 34 year old 2013 left tackle McKinnie has been replaced with an All-Pro 29 year old Brandon Albert. Right Tackle/wanna-be Left Tackle Squeeky Martin won't be missed what so ever with the signing of the penciled in studly right tackle Ja'Wuan James. Marshmallow Jerry is easily upgraded with Shelly Smith. A 30 plus Tyson (The Matador) Clabo's roster spot goes to Jason Fox (26) as a starting guard or backup tackle. The self appointed Mongo badge and remaining Offensive Line roster spots will be earned by new comers and homesteaders Billy Turner, Tyler Larsen, Evan Finkenberg, David Hurd, Davonte Wallace, Michael Ola, David Arkin, Sam Brenner, Nate Garner, and Dallas Thomas.

Famous Blazing Saddles/Hedley Lamarr quote; ""My mind is aglow with whirling, transient nodes of thought careening through a cosmic vapor of invention.""
Yea, Yea, Yea, I know what your thinking : ))) !!!

After the smoke clears from the shootout at the JRS corral.
How do you feel about who might remain standing compared to those buried with their boots off ?


Thank You for an Open Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view !

GOFINS!!!