I chucked while reading an article by Andy Cohen at miaimdolphins.com. It was like listening to John Lennon imagining the greatness of the Miami dolphin rushing attack. “Imagine if Arian Foster can fully recover from a torn Achilles and regain the form he once had. Imagine if Jay Ajayi makes the quantum leap from his first to his second season as many predict that he will. Imagine if rookie Kenyan Drake can provide the same bolt of electricity he did at Alabama?”
The axiom, ‘availability is an ability’ seems to allude the Miami Dolphin personnel department, no matter who resides at the helm. Earth to Miami, reality is constructed from the word real… Arian Foster is less than a year removed from a torn Achilles tendon. Jay Ajayi is nursing a bruised knee bone after putting on pads for the first time (not to mention his fall in the draft due to injury concerns) and Drake has some nagging injury to go along with the litany of injuries that derailed his college career.
About this time, you’re pounding little heart is screaming at the Negative Nancy writing this article. “He’s shattering my illusion!”
Reality is a wicked little bastard…
Ever notice how we’re allowed to write bastard, but we’re not allowed to write bitch? Oops, I did it! I wrote a politically incorrect word, bitch…
Isn’t that what this is all about? It’s politically correct to write about Miami’s potentially great stable of running backs, with the preface, “if they can stay healthy.” Heaven forbid we delve into reality, because it seems cruel to burst anyone’s happy little bubble prematurely. No, let’s run with this deception right up until reality lands like a cinder block on our cozy wittle heads.
How about let’s just go with the idea perhaps Adam Gase was just not that impressed with Lamar Miller. Isn’t the Miller situation another instance of bitching? The offensive coordinator and head coach just wanted the QB they hated to throw all the time and didn’t hand off to Miller? Please, listen to yourselves…
According to all the bitching, it wasn’t Tannehill audibling out of the running plays. He wasn’t allowed… Is it too early to call bullshit on the entire mess Philbin created?
Is bullshit another politically incorrect word?
Miami is a laughing stock because the entire organization was full of bullshit…
Boss Ross couldn’t admit he made a colossal mistake hiring people like Philbin because rich guys don’t make such terrible mistakes, bullshit!
How long has Andy Cohen been writing for miamidolphins.com? Unfortunately, I’m old enough to know and for the last decade of dismal performances, he’s been writing the same delusional bullshit.
Sorry Andy, nothing personal, I’m just bitching.
This is how a team gets to where Miami is, by believing in their own bitching and bullshit.
How about we start over, it does look like Adam Gase has the potential to be a good coach, but he won’t last if the front office, fans and the press continue to live in the land of misfit bullshit and bitching.
They didn’t run Lamar Miller because he was afraid of contact… He was afraid of contact at UM, it was nothing new. I got nothing against Miller, he got paid and he still has two knees that function. Ajayi and Drake want the payday and Foster wants one more chance to cash in. There’s that reality thing again, how we hate the real thing!
“Ain’t nothing like the real thing baby... Bullshit!”
The whole politically correct society has crept up on our game and our consciousness like bitching and bullshit on a downhill roll. Two huge men crashing head first into each other, bashing helmets, oh my… That’s bullshit, we need to be bitching about that right now.
Whoa, in one sentence I changed bitching and bullshit from forbidden to politically correct…
Bashing and bitching and bullshit, oh my!
You see, Tannehill was actually changing the plays… Miller didn’t like to run between the tackles, when Tannehill checked to the open “A” gap Miller hesitated. That’s why he wasn’t allowed to change the calls anymore.
Call it bullshit, but that’s why Tannehill is still here and Miller is not. Philbin never corrected the problem. When Philbin was gone, Man Campbell started sitting Miller. Campbell didn’t go for the bitching and bullshit and neither should we.
The reality is, Miami couldn’t fix all the problems the team was facing. In light of what I just wrote, they were not going to pay Lamar Miller. Olivier Vernon was on a defensive line that began the season with Wake and Suh taking the brunt of the double teams. Vernon may have been a decent player, but he was never worth the dollars the Giants threw at him.
We all know the bullshit with Brent Grimes’ wife’s constant bitching. Whether it was a career decline or a product of her in his ear, Grimes was not the player he had been.
I don’t need to go into the mess Philbin made by not jettisoning the bitch, Jonathan Martin. If we still had Richie, I doubt we’d have the problems at guard, but that’s bullshit under the bridge.
The reality is, RB, CB, OL and DL were in bad shape and there was not going to be enough talent or cash available to fix them all. Miami should be commended for not making the mistake of trying too hard to sign a single star. They let the chips fall where they may and got the best they could.
Mario Williams fell to them and honestly, if Vernon is ever as good as Williams I’ll be surprised. The best offensive lineman in the draft fell to them. Fixing two out of four in one off-season is not bad and they didn’t stretch too far except for perhaps Drake.
The Dolphins head into the season and the reality is, injuries are going to hurt the running game and the DBs are going to get torched…
See, even with all the bitching and bullshit, reality was not all that hard...
Showing posts with label Brent Grimes. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Brent Grimes. Show all posts
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 : )) !!!!!!!
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 : )) !!!!!!!
2015 Negative Tendencies Doom Miami Dolphins Game, Season.
Other than in a few of what have now become glorious victories. From the seasons opening kickoff the Miami Dolphins have been schooled in shallow waters with an expected tide to return. Slow starts, play calling, penalties, injuries, bad snaps, offensive line play, no running game conviction, receiver drops, quarterback indecisiveness, defensive line play, tackling, coverage skills, and special teams blunders have coagulated into a mammal consuming blob.
The BLOB became even larger and more unidentifiable today as all the above combined took place again when the Dolphins made an appearance in New York to face Ryan (Joe Willie) FITZPATRICK and the inner-division rival Jets. A single target of fault cannot be painted on any one Dolphin individual for this particular games disgraceful display. Unless the artist had already named the rendering before kickoff, as only an ill Jarvis Landry executed efficiently exciting Miami Dolphin football.
All-Pro Center Mike Pouncey left the game early due to a foot injury while being replaced by rookie guard Jamil Douglas who has never played a game at center and proved as much in forcing Ryan Tannehill to pick the ball off his shoelaces in at least 15 instances. The timing of the quarterbacks first read often came with his eyes, from hip level, looking at his feet in trying to secure the snap off of his toes.
However, even before Pouncey went down. The Dolphins and their quarterback were off to their usual slow start as their first two series (of which both started in enemy territory) ended in three & out, and a Tannehill interception at the goal line. Miami ran the ball for a grand total of eight yards over the entirety of the first half with only four more second half rushing yards. The absence of Pouncey while (for a fourth straight game) the injured Ju'Waun James was replaced (cough, cough) at right tackle, and a lack of cohesion as well as untimely penalties have minimized offensive line efficiency in both the run & pass game of Miami.
On defense the Dolphins accrued one measly sack of the Jets quarterback with zero turnovers while Brent Grimes' stride and jumping ability resembled that of a waddling little person versus the Jets unworthy to be named big receiver. Fitzpatrick threw four touchdowns as two of them (along with a multitude of the plays along the way) made Grimes look oddly silly while the Dolphins defensive line and linebackers allowed 137 yards rushing on 34 attempts, and 411 total yards.
Needless to say as it has become the norm. Miami was down 14 - 0 at halftime, and 21 - Zipp twelve-plus minutes into the third quarter before a light finally flickered on their side of the scoreboard. Upon the previously mentioned lone interception of Tannehill's day, the Jets drove 72 yards on 12 plays to score their first quarter touchdown toss, and another 11 play 92 yard possession for their second touchdown toss that ended the half.
Miami's backup return man opened the third quarter with an ill-advised 19 yard return to the Dolphins 12. The Dolphins punted 16 yards and five plays later while the special teams again blundered in allowing a 58 yard return to the Miami 25. Seven plays later (Joe Willie) threw his third touchdown of the day and the score was 21 - Zilch.
Two Dolphin possessions later Miami in six plays drove 69 yards (49 of which belonged to Jarvis Landry), and scored their first "flickering of lights" seven on the day via Tannehill to that same Landry. The Jets final 3rd quarter series rolled over into the 4th quarter and ended with another scorching of number 21 to put the home team up 28 - 7. New York drove another 55 yards in 3 plays and scored a 35th point on a 31 yard run up the Miami gut. To end an 80 yard drive in 14 plays Tannehill threw a five yard touchdown to Greg Jennings (his first of the year), and the quarterbacks second touchdown pass of the day. A Jets field goal for a score of 38 - 14 preceded Tannehills third touchdown of the day, and a career first (with some nice moves) for rookie receiver Devante Parker.
Parker was second in receiving with 4 catches, 80 yards and a touchdown to Landry's 13 receptions for 165 with a touchdown while another rookie in running back Jay Ajayi was third with an impressive 4 receptions for 52 yards. The Dolphins season receiving leader Rishard Matthews was eliminated from the game (due to injury) on the opening series, and AGAIN, Miami ran for 12 yards over the games entirety! Tannehill was sacked three times, and (for the most part) scanned the field from within a gopher hole (due to bad snaps and pressure) while completing 33 of FIFTY-EIGHT attempts for three touchdowns and an interception. He also threw (from his own 40) an absolutely beautiful, perfectly placed 60 yard pass into the end zone to Kenny Stills who tried to fancy pants it with one hand for a blatant drop rather than ceasing the continued perception that number 17 can't hit the deep ball touchdown.
One would guess that come February? Someone new will inform offensive coordinator Bill Lazor that this is the NFL where everyone was a college star, and that he nor any other NFL team has a player so superior to all others on the field who can catch a two or fewer yard pass and consistently be expected to run circles around the opposition to gain another 8-plus yards for a first down! And his play calling (for the most part) expects as much from whomever the ball may be thrown to! It's beyond understanding! Why in long yardage situations do he and/or the quarterback rarely call for routes beyond the yard markers?
The Dolphins have now been beached, and once again have suffocated themselves with their last gasp for a turn of the tide!
Ohhhh-Well, guess there's always next year, like every other year to blow the entire world up, and start all over again? Just hope to survive it!
The 2016 search for and/or evaluations of administrative staffs, coordinators, coaches, players, free agents, and draft prospects has officially begun!
Thanks for reading, and we can't wait for your reasonably viable 2016 suggestions!
BRING-ON February, GOFINS!!!
Over the last couple of weeks the Patriots have lost three of their top four offensive weapons, and today a first time starter in Denver upended the mighty Tom Brady to knock them out of the undefeated conversation! Only offensive coordinator (hint, hint) Mike Shula's Panthers remain an undefeated threat! HAIL TO THE 72 MIAMI DOLPHINS!!
The BLOB became even larger and more unidentifiable today as all the above combined took place again when the Dolphins made an appearance in New York to face Ryan (Joe Willie) FITZPATRICK and the inner-division rival Jets. A single target of fault cannot be painted on any one Dolphin individual for this particular games disgraceful display. Unless the artist had already named the rendering before kickoff, as only an ill Jarvis Landry executed efficiently exciting Miami Dolphin football.
All-Pro Center Mike Pouncey left the game early due to a foot injury while being replaced by rookie guard Jamil Douglas who has never played a game at center and proved as much in forcing Ryan Tannehill to pick the ball off his shoelaces in at least 15 instances. The timing of the quarterbacks first read often came with his eyes, from hip level, looking at his feet in trying to secure the snap off of his toes.
However, even before Pouncey went down. The Dolphins and their quarterback were off to their usual slow start as their first two series (of which both started in enemy territory) ended in three & out, and a Tannehill interception at the goal line. Miami ran the ball for a grand total of eight yards over the entirety of the first half with only four more second half rushing yards. The absence of Pouncey while (for a fourth straight game) the injured Ju'Waun James was replaced (cough, cough) at right tackle, and a lack of cohesion as well as untimely penalties have minimized offensive line efficiency in both the run & pass game of Miami.
On defense the Dolphins accrued one measly sack of the Jets quarterback with zero turnovers while Brent Grimes' stride and jumping ability resembled that of a waddling little person versus the Jets unworthy to be named big receiver. Fitzpatrick threw four touchdowns as two of them (along with a multitude of the plays along the way) made Grimes look oddly silly while the Dolphins defensive line and linebackers allowed 137 yards rushing on 34 attempts, and 411 total yards.
Needless to say as it has become the norm. Miami was down 14 - 0 at halftime, and 21 - Zipp twelve-plus minutes into the third quarter before a light finally flickered on their side of the scoreboard. Upon the previously mentioned lone interception of Tannehill's day, the Jets drove 72 yards on 12 plays to score their first quarter touchdown toss, and another 11 play 92 yard possession for their second touchdown toss that ended the half.
Miami's backup return man opened the third quarter with an ill-advised 19 yard return to the Dolphins 12. The Dolphins punted 16 yards and five plays later while the special teams again blundered in allowing a 58 yard return to the Miami 25. Seven plays later (Joe Willie) threw his third touchdown of the day and the score was 21 - Zilch.
Two Dolphin possessions later Miami in six plays drove 69 yards (49 of which belonged to Jarvis Landry), and scored their first "flickering of lights" seven on the day via Tannehill to that same Landry. The Jets final 3rd quarter series rolled over into the 4th quarter and ended with another scorching of number 21 to put the home team up 28 - 7. New York drove another 55 yards in 3 plays and scored a 35th point on a 31 yard run up the Miami gut. To end an 80 yard drive in 14 plays Tannehill threw a five yard touchdown to Greg Jennings (his first of the year), and the quarterbacks second touchdown pass of the day. A Jets field goal for a score of 38 - 14 preceded Tannehills third touchdown of the day, and a career first (with some nice moves) for rookie receiver Devante Parker.
Parker was second in receiving with 4 catches, 80 yards and a touchdown to Landry's 13 receptions for 165 with a touchdown while another rookie in running back Jay Ajayi was third with an impressive 4 receptions for 52 yards. The Dolphins season receiving leader Rishard Matthews was eliminated from the game (due to injury) on the opening series, and AGAIN, Miami ran for 12 yards over the games entirety! Tannehill was sacked three times, and (for the most part) scanned the field from within a gopher hole (due to bad snaps and pressure) while completing 33 of FIFTY-EIGHT attempts for three touchdowns and an interception. He also threw (from his own 40) an absolutely beautiful, perfectly placed 60 yard pass into the end zone to Kenny Stills who tried to fancy pants it with one hand for a blatant drop rather than ceasing the continued perception that number 17 can't hit the deep ball touchdown.
One would guess that come February? Someone new will inform offensive coordinator Bill Lazor that this is the NFL where everyone was a college star, and that he nor any other NFL team has a player so superior to all others on the field who can catch a two or fewer yard pass and consistently be expected to run circles around the opposition to gain another 8-plus yards for a first down! And his play calling (for the most part) expects as much from whomever the ball may be thrown to! It's beyond understanding! Why in long yardage situations do he and/or the quarterback rarely call for routes beyond the yard markers?
The Dolphins have now been beached, and once again have suffocated themselves with their last gasp for a turn of the tide!
Ohhhh-Well, guess there's always next year, like every other year to blow the entire world up, and start all over again? Just hope to survive it!
The 2016 search for and/or evaluations of administrative staffs, coordinators, coaches, players, free agents, and draft prospects has officially begun!
Thanks for reading, and we can't wait for your reasonably viable 2016 suggestions!
BRING-ON February, GOFINS!!!
Over the last couple of weeks the Patriots have lost three of their top four offensive weapons, and today a first time starter in Denver upended the mighty Tom Brady to knock them out of the undefeated conversation! Only offensive coordinator (hint, hint) Mike Shula's Panthers remain an undefeated threat! HAIL TO THE 72 MIAMI DOLPHINS!!
Miami Dolphins Can't Mend Broken Hearts, Lose To Dallas
For just the third time in the now eleven week NFL season, the Miami Dolphins attended a game on their own turf. Attended being the key word because the execution of plays was non-existent.
Miami ran forty offensive plays on ten possessions which equates to an average of four plays per series. The Dolphins most extensive play possession of the entire game was their first of the game which was that of just five plays for 29 yards and zero points. They had a 55 second, three play drive of 54 yards to score a touchdown just before halftime. As well, they had a second five play 58 yard touchdown scoring possession on their second series of the third quarter. Other than on two of those three possessions, Miami didn't score, nor did they have a series of more than four plays which is absolutely absurd while Dallas was just two minutes shy of holding the ball for twice as long as Miami.
Every time that Miami was able to execute a productive play from either side of the ball a penalty deleted the result while derailing every potential opportunity to make some sort of prolific splash. They mounted just nine first downs while converting a pitiful one of ten third down attempts. On Miami's first second half possession they went from first and ten near midfield to first and thirty before a single snap of the ball was completed in it's entirety, and they were down just 14 - 7 at the time thanks to the 55 second, three play Dolphin touchdown that ended the first half. Previous to that first half ending Miami touchdown, the Dolphins for the eighth time in ten games started out at a sloths pace and was trailing 14 - 0.
Miami's quarterback Ryan Tannehill from his own 8 yard line started off the Dallas scoring attack with a pick-six thrown to a linebacker that he obviously didn't see. A third down play that came to be at the end of the first quarter, (after an 18 yard Jay Ajayi run for a first down was nullified due to penalty). Though Miami's (Brent Grimes & rookie linebacker Neville Hewitt) picked off Tony Romo twice (to know avail) with a minus one and a plus 12 yard offensive series following those interceptions. The Dolphins defense itself was no better than the offense at executing a productive play that wasn't reversed as the Cowboys converted 50% of their 3rd and 4th down plays while Miami allowed several 3rd and double digit yard plays to be converted. Meanwhile, the Miami defense also had sacks erased from the box-score due to penalties elsewhere on the field in the instances of said defensive production.
The lone flickering offensive bright spots for the Dolphins that weren't nullified due to penalty came via the arm of Ryan Tannehill with the previously mentioned "end of the first half touchdown" throw of 12 yards to tight end Jordan Cameron to draw within 14 - 7. Another slight turn to the right of the dimmer switch came midway through the third quarter when Tannehill hit receiver Kenny Stills on a perfectly thrown semi-deep ball of 29 yards that was in the air for 40, and tied the score at 14 - 14.
Dallas answered shortly thereafter on their following series with an eight play 80 yard touchdown drive to end the 3rd quarter 21 - 14, and scored a 4th quarter field goal for a final score board result of Dallas 24 to Miami's 14.
With the leagues other AFC endings, The Dolphins blew a huge opportunity to get even with the conferences many 6th seeds who are at 5 - 5. One of those teams are the NY Jets who the Dolphins play next week in what could have been a battle for sole possession of second place in the AFC East. As is, Miami remains one game behind what is now four teams tied for the 6th seed at 5 - 5. One of those teams is the Houston Texans whom Miami destroyed just a few weeks ago, the others are Buffalo (if beaten by New England) on Monday night, Kansas City, and next weeks Dolphin opponent in the Jets. Unless those mentioned lose two games more than Miami over the remainder, the Dolphins will have to win out to potentially make the playoffs, and they may have to win out to win two more games than those mentioned.
Opening Poem from the movie thriller, The Fan.
"Excited and anxious I await my dream
To escape, applaud And embrace my team
Opening day I always can trust
It’s just for this high That I crazily lust
Return of our hero's Does brighten the days
Just briefly, our troubles Get lost in the haze
The grace from the field Arouses the crowd
Reflects on the days When I was quite proud
I’m more entranced Than the average fan
I used to play, you see And I know I still can
That time I drove the ball With such loft
My exit atop shoulders As they carried me off
This pastime and I Just fade into one
Expanded upon From father and son
My boy is young And awkward for now
I just need the time And can show him how
I really am quite close Just a break away
From straightening things out And being okay
I can help my team To regain its glory
With just a little twist To the same old story
Players say now They play for themselves
This causes a burning Within me that dwells
The fan is the one Who pays for the game
Which bestows all the riches And welcomed fame
The players will listen But really don’t hear
All the while just hiding Behind an invisible tear
I grow tired now of all this greed
And chart a course to set things free"
SORRY TO ALL THOSE THAT BLEED AQUA & ORANGE !!
Thank You for an open minded read, and we (sort'a) look forward to your angle of view ;)) !!
Though it never seems to make a difference, GOFINS :""( !!!
Miami ran forty offensive plays on ten possessions which equates to an average of four plays per series. The Dolphins most extensive play possession of the entire game was their first of the game which was that of just five plays for 29 yards and zero points. They had a 55 second, three play drive of 54 yards to score a touchdown just before halftime. As well, they had a second five play 58 yard touchdown scoring possession on their second series of the third quarter. Other than on two of those three possessions, Miami didn't score, nor did they have a series of more than four plays which is absolutely absurd while Dallas was just two minutes shy of holding the ball for twice as long as Miami.
Every time that Miami was able to execute a productive play from either side of the ball a penalty deleted the result while derailing every potential opportunity to make some sort of prolific splash. They mounted just nine first downs while converting a pitiful one of ten third down attempts. On Miami's first second half possession they went from first and ten near midfield to first and thirty before a single snap of the ball was completed in it's entirety, and they were down just 14 - 7 at the time thanks to the 55 second, three play Dolphin touchdown that ended the first half. Previous to that first half ending Miami touchdown, the Dolphins for the eighth time in ten games started out at a sloths pace and was trailing 14 - 0.
Miami's quarterback Ryan Tannehill from his own 8 yard line started off the Dallas scoring attack with a pick-six thrown to a linebacker that he obviously didn't see. A third down play that came to be at the end of the first quarter, (after an 18 yard Jay Ajayi run for a first down was nullified due to penalty). Though Miami's (Brent Grimes & rookie linebacker Neville Hewitt) picked off Tony Romo twice (to know avail) with a minus one and a plus 12 yard offensive series following those interceptions. The Dolphins defense itself was no better than the offense at executing a productive play that wasn't reversed as the Cowboys converted 50% of their 3rd and 4th down plays while Miami allowed several 3rd and double digit yard plays to be converted. Meanwhile, the Miami defense also had sacks erased from the box-score due to penalties elsewhere on the field in the instances of said defensive production.
The lone flickering offensive bright spots for the Dolphins that weren't nullified due to penalty came via the arm of Ryan Tannehill with the previously mentioned "end of the first half touchdown" throw of 12 yards to tight end Jordan Cameron to draw within 14 - 7. Another slight turn to the right of the dimmer switch came midway through the third quarter when Tannehill hit receiver Kenny Stills on a perfectly thrown semi-deep ball of 29 yards that was in the air for 40, and tied the score at 14 - 14.
Dallas answered shortly thereafter on their following series with an eight play 80 yard touchdown drive to end the 3rd quarter 21 - 14, and scored a 4th quarter field goal for a final score board result of Dallas 24 to Miami's 14.
With the leagues other AFC endings, The Dolphins blew a huge opportunity to get even with the conferences many 6th seeds who are at 5 - 5. One of those teams are the NY Jets who the Dolphins play next week in what could have been a battle for sole possession of second place in the AFC East. As is, Miami remains one game behind what is now four teams tied for the 6th seed at 5 - 5. One of those teams is the Houston Texans whom Miami destroyed just a few weeks ago, the others are Buffalo (if beaten by New England) on Monday night, Kansas City, and next weeks Dolphin opponent in the Jets. Unless those mentioned lose two games more than Miami over the remainder, the Dolphins will have to win out to potentially make the playoffs, and they may have to win out to win two more games than those mentioned.
Opening Poem from the movie thriller, The Fan.
"Excited and anxious I await my dream
To escape, applaud And embrace my team
Opening day I always can trust
It’s just for this high That I crazily lust
Return of our hero's Does brighten the days
Just briefly, our troubles Get lost in the haze
The grace from the field Arouses the crowd
Reflects on the days When I was quite proud
I’m more entranced Than the average fan
I used to play, you see And I know I still can
That time I drove the ball With such loft
My exit atop shoulders As they carried me off
This pastime and I Just fade into one
Expanded upon From father and son
My boy is young And awkward for now
I just need the time And can show him how
I really am quite close Just a break away
From straightening things out And being okay
I can help my team To regain its glory
With just a little twist To the same old story
Players say now They play for themselves
This causes a burning Within me that dwells
The fan is the one Who pays for the game
Which bestows all the riches And welcomed fame
The players will listen But really don’t hear
All the while just hiding Behind an invisible tear
I grow tired now of all this greed
And chart a course to set things free"
SORRY TO ALL THOSE THAT BLEED AQUA & ORANGE !!
Thank You for an open minded read, and we (sort'a) look forward to your angle of view ;)) !!
Though it never seems to make a difference, GOFINS :""( !!!
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!!!
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!!!
Dolphins Toxic JUICE Sedates Redskins
The Miami Dolphins began the 2015 season at the Washington Redskins. Over the games first twenty-eight minutes the home team scalped the (pre-season) ready Dolphins who couldn't tackle or execute a play from either side of the ball while making Washington's savages look like a well oiled playoff machine.
Miami's daunting defense were hit head-on and quite frankly getting run over time after time as the Redskins held possession of the ball for 23 of the games 30 first half minutes. The Dolphin rookie Jordan Phillips had Miami's first and only sack of the game on the home teams game opening 12 play possession of 7:21 that resulted in a Field Goal and 3 - 0 lead.
The visitors had a tough road to hoe while an opening day event is the loudest, most inspired day of the season for the home team other than in a playoff atmosphere, and Miami's opening series went three and out. After a Redskin 5 plus minute drive came to an end upon a missed field goal, Miami took the ball with 27 first quarter seconds remaining and went six and out. With 12:09 remaining in the second quarter the Dolphins made their second defensive play of the game as Brent Grimes intercepted Kirk Cousins and returned what looked to be a pik-six for two yards at the Washington 21. On the Dolphins first play Tight End Dion Sims was carted off the field with a neck and head injury after diving for an overthrown Tannehill ball in the end-zone, and Miami went four and out in attempting to gain one yard for a first down from the twelve yard line.
Washington took the ball 78 yards in the opposite direction on 17 plays in 8:49 for a touchdown and 10 - 0 lead with 1:49 first half ticks remaining. Though the previously mentioned injury to tight end Dion Sims who was just one of two active for a team that likes to run a two tight end set seemed to be a nail in the coffin, it was actually a blessing in disguise as Miami was forced to spread wide with multiple receivers for the games remainder. Note; Ryan Tannehill talked to Sims after the game and said he seems to be fine! So. Miami gets the ball with fewer than two first half minutes to go and finally finds it's MOJO with an 80 yard, 9 play, 1:22 drive for a 3 yard Tannehill TOUCHDOWN pass the Rishard Matthews, and a 10 - 7 halftime deficit.
The Dolphins took the second half kick from their own 27, and marched down to the Redskin 22 for what looked to be at least a game tying field goal before on a third and four play Tannehill was sacked and fumbled while the ball was hot-potatoed threw the grasp of many all the way back to the Miami 40 where Washington recovered. Fortunately, Miami's defense came to play in the second half as Washington executed a run of negative two yards, and two passes for zero yards as the Dolphins (other than on the series of the Grimes interception) forced just their second three and out.
Two more scoreless Miami series, and a Washington possession ended the third quarter. The Dolphins second series began with 1:34 to go while continuing into the fourth quarter as Miami drove from their own 20 on ten plays in 5:13 to the home teams 4 when on fourth and four the Dolphins rookie Andrew Franks kicked the game tying 10 - 10 FIELD GOAL.
2015's first fourth quarter has arrived as has finally the Dolphins Defense and Special Teams. The Defense forces it's third three and out of the game, this time for minus five yards and Washington punts from their own 15 yard line. Miami punt returner Jarvis (JUICE) Landry fields the ball at his own 31 and hits the gas straight up the middle between perfectly executed blocks, and goes 69 yards untouched for a Miami Dolphin TOUCHDOWN as his team takes it's first lead of the season at 17 - 10.
The Redskins follow with a drive from their own 35 to the Miami 29 before an absolutely brilliant interception by free agent acquisition Brice McCain at the Dolphins two on a 3rd & 13 play. With 7:35 of the game to go Miami has a 6 play series for 20 yards and punts to Washington who with 5 minutes remaining drives from their own 31 to the visitors 20 in 2:43. On fourth and seven Miami brings the heat and forces an errant incompletion as Miami controls the ball over the final 2:17 for a 17 - 10 Opening Day Road VICTORY!
The rest of the AFC East won their opening day games at home versus AFC teams.
Miami gained 256 total net yards to Washington's (349 of which most came in the first half) as did the final Redskins Time Of Possession advantage of 37:54 to The Dolphins 22:06.
S Rashad Jones (7 solo) led the team with 12 tackles.
LB Koa Misi (9 solo) and Jelani Jenkins (7 solo) each had 11 tackles.
CB Brent Grimes and Brice McCain converted spectacularly played interceptions.
QB Ryan Tannehill went 22 of 34 for 226 yards with a touchdown pass.
RB Lamar Miller had 13 rush attempts for 53 yards.
TE Jordan Cameron caught four balls for 73 yards.
WR Rishard Matthews had a touchdown.
WR Jarvis (JUICE) Landry had 8 receptions for 53 yards with the final score deciding TOXIC 69 yard punt return TOUCHDOWN!
Thank You for an open minded read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!
GOFINS!!!
Miami's daunting defense were hit head-on and quite frankly getting run over time after time as the Redskins held possession of the ball for 23 of the games 30 first half minutes. The Dolphin rookie Jordan Phillips had Miami's first and only sack of the game on the home teams game opening 12 play possession of 7:21 that resulted in a Field Goal and 3 - 0 lead.
The visitors had a tough road to hoe while an opening day event is the loudest, most inspired day of the season for the home team other than in a playoff atmosphere, and Miami's opening series went three and out. After a Redskin 5 plus minute drive came to an end upon a missed field goal, Miami took the ball with 27 first quarter seconds remaining and went six and out. With 12:09 remaining in the second quarter the Dolphins made their second defensive play of the game as Brent Grimes intercepted Kirk Cousins and returned what looked to be a pik-six for two yards at the Washington 21. On the Dolphins first play Tight End Dion Sims was carted off the field with a neck and head injury after diving for an overthrown Tannehill ball in the end-zone, and Miami went four and out in attempting to gain one yard for a first down from the twelve yard line.
Washington took the ball 78 yards in the opposite direction on 17 plays in 8:49 for a touchdown and 10 - 0 lead with 1:49 first half ticks remaining. Though the previously mentioned injury to tight end Dion Sims who was just one of two active for a team that likes to run a two tight end set seemed to be a nail in the coffin, it was actually a blessing in disguise as Miami was forced to spread wide with multiple receivers for the games remainder. Note; Ryan Tannehill talked to Sims after the game and said he seems to be fine! So. Miami gets the ball with fewer than two first half minutes to go and finally finds it's MOJO with an 80 yard, 9 play, 1:22 drive for a 3 yard Tannehill TOUCHDOWN pass the Rishard Matthews, and a 10 - 7 halftime deficit.
The Dolphins took the second half kick from their own 27, and marched down to the Redskin 22 for what looked to be at least a game tying field goal before on a third and four play Tannehill was sacked and fumbled while the ball was hot-potatoed threw the grasp of many all the way back to the Miami 40 where Washington recovered. Fortunately, Miami's defense came to play in the second half as Washington executed a run of negative two yards, and two passes for zero yards as the Dolphins (other than on the series of the Grimes interception) forced just their second three and out.
Two more scoreless Miami series, and a Washington possession ended the third quarter. The Dolphins second series began with 1:34 to go while continuing into the fourth quarter as Miami drove from their own 20 on ten plays in 5:13 to the home teams 4 when on fourth and four the Dolphins rookie Andrew Franks kicked the game tying 10 - 10 FIELD GOAL.
2015's first fourth quarter has arrived as has finally the Dolphins Defense and Special Teams. The Defense forces it's third three and out of the game, this time for minus five yards and Washington punts from their own 15 yard line. Miami punt returner Jarvis (JUICE) Landry fields the ball at his own 31 and hits the gas straight up the middle between perfectly executed blocks, and goes 69 yards untouched for a Miami Dolphin TOUCHDOWN as his team takes it's first lead of the season at 17 - 10.
The Redskins follow with a drive from their own 35 to the Miami 29 before an absolutely brilliant interception by free agent acquisition Brice McCain at the Dolphins two on a 3rd & 13 play. With 7:35 of the game to go Miami has a 6 play series for 20 yards and punts to Washington who with 5 minutes remaining drives from their own 31 to the visitors 20 in 2:43. On fourth and seven Miami brings the heat and forces an errant incompletion as Miami controls the ball over the final 2:17 for a 17 - 10 Opening Day Road VICTORY!
The rest of the AFC East won their opening day games at home versus AFC teams.
Miami gained 256 total net yards to Washington's (349 of which most came in the first half) as did the final Redskins Time Of Possession advantage of 37:54 to The Dolphins 22:06.
S Rashad Jones (7 solo) led the team with 12 tackles.
LB Koa Misi (9 solo) and Jelani Jenkins (7 solo) each had 11 tackles.
CB Brent Grimes and Brice McCain converted spectacularly played interceptions.
QB Ryan Tannehill went 22 of 34 for 226 yards with a touchdown pass.
RB Lamar Miller had 13 rush attempts for 53 yards.
TE Jordan Cameron caught four balls for 73 yards.
WR Rishard Matthews had a touchdown.
WR Jarvis (JUICE) Landry had 8 receptions for 53 yards with the final score deciding TOXIC 69 yard punt return TOUCHDOWN!
Thank You for an open minded read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!
GOFINS!!!
The Miami Dolphins Must Overcome Injury Bug
The last post was all about the Miami Dolphin glass half-full, but is the glass half-empty? Is the renewed energy surrounding the Dolphins a product of orange-colored glasses? Are folks in glass houses pitching stones? If you haven’t guessed it, the theme of this post is the glassy fragility of the Miami Dolphins.
The Miami offensive line teeters, balancing on a fiber optic tight rope ready for the glass fibers to fray like a knee ligament. Brandon Albert came to Miami with a history of incomplete seasons and that trend continued with a shortened 2014. In the euphoria of the preseason, it is easy to overlook the obvious and ignore Albert’s history of rarely playing 16 games in a season. Jason Fox filled in admirably until the Miami injury plague sidelined Albert’s backup in the second pre-season game.
Starting right guard Billy Turner missed all of last season on IR and starting left guard Dallas Thomas was drafted in need of shoulder surgery two seasons ago. 2014 began without Mike Pouncey for six weeks. Ja'Wuan James must be staying as far away from his line mates as possible to avoid catching the contagion. There is so little depth on the Miami offensive line, even a single injury could lead to disaster.
The Dolphins signed big rangy tight end Cameron Jordan but he arrives with concussion questions and Kenny Stills has missed time with tender legs. All of these problems loom glass-half-empty, taunting Miami fans who want desperately to believe but know the intoxicating whiskey swirls in a cracked tumbler. The possibility of an explosive offense is a shard away from dissolving into the lack of depth on the offensive line and tight end.
Miami fans shook their heads the moment Jamar Taylor limped off the field knowing the secondary could not withstand the loss of another starter. Taylor has yet to shed the injury bug plaguing him since he was drafted injured two years ago. Louis Delmas came to Miami an oft-injured free agent safety and limped off the field in the same condition. Miami fans like to ignore the detached Achilles tendon suffered by Brent Grimes a few short years ago.
The Linebacker crew is led by Koa Misi, who was unable to finish the 2014 season and has yet to play a snap in the 2015 pre-season. Jalani Jenkins and Chris McCain have been steady but their backup Jordan Tripp limped off a week ago and has not returned. Behind them waits, a plethora of undrafted free agent linebackers and Miami’s hopes may soon rest on whether one is a special player overlooked by the entire NFL.
A defense that gave away a 1st and 2nd round picks in the bust named Dion Jordan is as thin as fine crystal. The only real depth on the Dolphin roster is in the defensive line and wide receiver corps. This is the real reason Miami has not sniffed the playoffs since 2008. NFL football is a game of attrition. Teams that draft well and build a deep roster can flourish when the inevitable injuries begin piling up. Miami is not one of them.
When totaled up, the euphoria in Miami should be christened with a glass saltshaker heaved over the left shoulder. Yet, not all is ready to crumble in Dolphin land… The two most complete pieces of the puzzle have shown endurance Miami lacks elsewhere and are the keys to success.
Great teams draft and pay their stars, but the love affair with Ndamukong Suh only lasted four years in Detroit. A look at the Lions defensive ranking over those four years shows only last season as dominating. Even the man named Suh, a virtual lock for pro honors, was allowed to walk when Detroit soured on his untimely penalties. Miami caught a break landing Suh.
The hopes of keeping the flimsy gossamer thread binding the team together rests on Suh and his star counterpart on the offense, Ryan Tannehill. The young QB has shown great durability in the face of major adversity. The NFL’s most sacked QB over his career has yet to come up lame and continues to grow into the most difficult position in all of sports.
The question is, are these two ironmen enough to break the wicked spell that has left Miami bereft of playoff appearances?
It is always interesting to see the coaching merry-go-round spin in the NFL when the front office truly holds the keys to the franchise. Joe Philbin loses his pro bowl center and left tackle without adequate backups. He loses most of his secondary without adequate backup. Loses most of his linebackers, his star wideouts play possum and his starting running back was lost before the season even started.
Coach Philbin really sucks! He can’t get fourth stringers to beat Tom Brady, he can’t get a broke team to play the final two games! This guy has no personality he just stands there looking like a deer in the headlights… He is a deer in the headlights.
The coach of a team starting the season with high hopes only to have it disseminated by wicked glass shattered by men bashing heads at 40 MPH.
Is there a secret formula? Is the sun just too damn strong in Miami? Don Shula would never believe that, but Philbin must and somehow he continues to walk unfazed through the land mines leading up to the 2015 NFL season. Like every Miami fan, he dreads pre-season games as one player after another limps off the field.
The promise of redemption crumbled like an empty wine glass dashed in the fireplace.
The Miami offensive line teeters, balancing on a fiber optic tight rope ready for the glass fibers to fray like a knee ligament. Brandon Albert came to Miami with a history of incomplete seasons and that trend continued with a shortened 2014. In the euphoria of the preseason, it is easy to overlook the obvious and ignore Albert’s history of rarely playing 16 games in a season. Jason Fox filled in admirably until the Miami injury plague sidelined Albert’s backup in the second pre-season game.
Starting right guard Billy Turner missed all of last season on IR and starting left guard Dallas Thomas was drafted in need of shoulder surgery two seasons ago. 2014 began without Mike Pouncey for six weeks. Ja'Wuan James must be staying as far away from his line mates as possible to avoid catching the contagion. There is so little depth on the Miami offensive line, even a single injury could lead to disaster.
The Dolphins signed big rangy tight end Cameron Jordan but he arrives with concussion questions and Kenny Stills has missed time with tender legs. All of these problems loom glass-half-empty, taunting Miami fans who want desperately to believe but know the intoxicating whiskey swirls in a cracked tumbler. The possibility of an explosive offense is a shard away from dissolving into the lack of depth on the offensive line and tight end.
Miami fans shook their heads the moment Jamar Taylor limped off the field knowing the secondary could not withstand the loss of another starter. Taylor has yet to shed the injury bug plaguing him since he was drafted injured two years ago. Louis Delmas came to Miami an oft-injured free agent safety and limped off the field in the same condition. Miami fans like to ignore the detached Achilles tendon suffered by Brent Grimes a few short years ago.
The Linebacker crew is led by Koa Misi, who was unable to finish the 2014 season and has yet to play a snap in the 2015 pre-season. Jalani Jenkins and Chris McCain have been steady but their backup Jordan Tripp limped off a week ago and has not returned. Behind them waits, a plethora of undrafted free agent linebackers and Miami’s hopes may soon rest on whether one is a special player overlooked by the entire NFL.
A defense that gave away a 1st and 2nd round picks in the bust named Dion Jordan is as thin as fine crystal. The only real depth on the Dolphin roster is in the defensive line and wide receiver corps. This is the real reason Miami has not sniffed the playoffs since 2008. NFL football is a game of attrition. Teams that draft well and build a deep roster can flourish when the inevitable injuries begin piling up. Miami is not one of them.
When totaled up, the euphoria in Miami should be christened with a glass saltshaker heaved over the left shoulder. Yet, not all is ready to crumble in Dolphin land… The two most complete pieces of the puzzle have shown endurance Miami lacks elsewhere and are the keys to success.
Great teams draft and pay their stars, but the love affair with Ndamukong Suh only lasted four years in Detroit. A look at the Lions defensive ranking over those four years shows only last season as dominating. Even the man named Suh, a virtual lock for pro honors, was allowed to walk when Detroit soured on his untimely penalties. Miami caught a break landing Suh.
The hopes of keeping the flimsy gossamer thread binding the team together rests on Suh and his star counterpart on the offense, Ryan Tannehill. The young QB has shown great durability in the face of major adversity. The NFL’s most sacked QB over his career has yet to come up lame and continues to grow into the most difficult position in all of sports.
The question is, are these two ironmen enough to break the wicked spell that has left Miami bereft of playoff appearances?
It is always interesting to see the coaching merry-go-round spin in the NFL when the front office truly holds the keys to the franchise. Joe Philbin loses his pro bowl center and left tackle without adequate backups. He loses most of his secondary without adequate backup. Loses most of his linebackers, his star wideouts play possum and his starting running back was lost before the season even started.
Coach Philbin really sucks! He can’t get fourth stringers to beat Tom Brady, he can’t get a broke team to play the final two games! This guy has no personality he just stands there looking like a deer in the headlights… He is a deer in the headlights.
The coach of a team starting the season with high hopes only to have it disseminated by wicked glass shattered by men bashing heads at 40 MPH.
Is there a secret formula? Is the sun just too damn strong in Miami? Don Shula would never believe that, but Philbin must and somehow he continues to walk unfazed through the land mines leading up to the 2015 NFL season. Like every Miami fan, he dreads pre-season games as one player after another limps off the field.
The promise of redemption crumbled like an empty wine glass dashed in the fireplace.
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!
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!
Fear Not Dolphin Fans. The Miami Dolphins Will Rise Again!
Another Fine Piece Thanks To Tony Nicoletti!
All this talk of mediocrity. About how the Dolphins are doomed, and not going anywhere. That they don't have the cap space to buy what they need in free agency. (Much less the draft positioning to get the impact players that will help them reach the playoffs). To all the naysayers out there I say....nonsense!
These Dolphins are in better position to make a push for the playoffs than they have been in 6 years. Yes, they need to recoup cap space by eliminating some of the dead weight. (But doesn't every team have that problem each year)? Dennis Hickey has done a good job with some of his free agency and draft picks. A second year will only get this franchise closer to building a team that will fit what Joe Philbin and company, are trying to field in Miami.
Bringing Mike Tannenbaum on board, (who some claim was instrumental in the Jets having back to back playoff seasons) should benefit this club as he will be able to offer his insight and expertise. Dawn Apointe has been shrewdly and successfully handling the contract negotiations for a number of years in Miami. With their help, Hickey should be able to procure the right personnel to guarantee this Dolphins team is playoff bound. It's a make or break season so everyone is going to have to work in concert to that end.
Miami has a 1,000 yard running back, (Lamar Miller) who's average yardage per attempt helped Miami become the second highest in the league. with a 4.7 yards per running attempt. Not bad when you consider Miami was predominantly a passing team. Miller was also running solo, without a lot of help from a, "change of pace" running back to spell him. And while the offensive line started to go downhill in week 9 when Branden Albert sustained a season ending injury, (allowing 46 sacks) they still managed to do enough to open up some running lanes.
The Dolphins had 3 players in the Pro Bowl. Cameron Wake, Brent Grimes and Mike Pouncey. All of which are healthy and will be back for 2015. There are a host of other players on this roster that could easily be starters for any team in the NFL. There were also some surprise first and second year players that showed considerable promise and upside for the coming year.
Unlike the beginning of the 2014 season Miami will not have to devote most of their resources to the entire offensive line. A starting guard or two and depth is all that is needed. Albert is ahead of schedule with his recovery and barring any unforeseen setbacks, could be available by the start of the first regular season game. The Dolphin offensive line was trending upward before Albert's injury. If Miami finds a serviceable guard and allows everyone to shuffle back to their regular positions, there is no telling how good their running and passing game will be.
This Dolphin team had a top 5 defense for three quarters of the season, before injuries and fatigue set in. Getting a few players healthy and a couple of key acquisitions will help shore up that side of the ball and make this team stingier in 2015. A run stuffing Linebacker, ball hawking Corner Back and Safety will certainly further their cause. The Dolphins could also use a big bodied Nose Tackle to draw double teams so the pass rushing duo of Cameron Wake and Olivier Vernon can do their thing. And would someone please find a way to successfully integrate Dion Jordan's unique skill set into the lineup.
The Dolphins have the highest price group of receivers in the NFL with a diverse mix of talent. If Miami trims the fat and brings in a big red zone target and/or a speedy receiver, our success inside the 20 and on third down conversions will improve. With better pass protection Ryan Tannehill might have enough time to let plays develop down field so he can finally start connecting on his deep passes. It showed signs of coming around near the end of the season. (Though he fell victim to several dropped balls that should have been caught).
Speaking of which, the biggest reason Miami will fare better in 2015 comes from the fact that they have resolved a problem that has plagued them for more than 15 years. They finally have a quarterback they can build an offense around. I know plenty of you will scoff at the idea that Ryan Tannehill could be a franchise quarterback. Many of you think he is at best, average and that there are other quarterbacks, (especially from his 2012 draft class) that are better. I'll admit, there are other young quarterbacks that have actually brought their teams to the playoffs and have won more games. But all of them are with teams that have had more tools and talent than Ryan has had to work with.
I won't bore you will all the statistics that show just how much Tannehill has progressed in his third year. He was only 64 yards away from breaking into the top ten quarterbacks last season. And who was just ahead of him in total passing yards? The quarterback that won the Super Bowl, Tom Brady. The only signal caller that came from the 2012 quarterback draft bonanza that made the top 10 list was Andrew Luck, and (the last time Miami played the Indianapolis Colts, they beat them). Only the Detroit Lion's Mathew Stafford has been sack nearly as many times as Ryan Tannehill. (45 Sacks versus 46). All the other top 10 quarterbacks were sacked at least, 10 fewer times than Tannehill.
The fact is, I don't think you will find another quarterback that has been sacked more than Ryan Tannehill over the last two seasons. Yet, he managed to throw for more than 4,000 yards, with a completion percentage that only 3 quarterbacks in the top 10 list surpassed. That is one tough, accurate passer that performs well under pressure. He also happened to be the 5th best rushing quarterback, too. This makes him a dual threat with athletic skills that few field generals can match.
And when you think about it, Tannehill's total passing yardage were a bit skewed as he didn't really start to show much improvement until the fourth game of the season against the Oakland Raiders. (A game where he was well on his way to 300 yards passing, were it not for Joe Philbin wisely pulling him out when the win was secured). There were also a couple of other contests where he wound up coasting late in the game because they had built up an insurmountable lead. (A Miami Dolphin team that runs the score up on it's opponent)?
After being with the same Offensive Coordinator/Coach for 5 years, it only took the preseason, and 3 regular season games for Ryan to start getting comfortable with the new offensive that Bill Lazor installed. That tells you how intelligent he is and how willing he was to work harder to make this new system productive. You have to believe that a second year under Lazor's tutelage is where Ryan Tannehill is really going to make the biggest strides in all facets of his game.
2014 was a, "getting acquainted" season for Bill Lazor and the Miami Dolphin players. Now that he has a better idea of what talents and abilities he has to work with, he will be able to utilize these skill sets to put this offense in a position to score and win games. This offense has already impressed under his reign. (Tannehill threw more pass completions than any quarterback in franchise history, last season). Rookie Jarvis Landry has made a huge contribution as a slot receiver in his first year, which is unheard of for a rookie. And Miami hasn't had a 1,000 yard Running Back since Ricky Williams. The last time the Dolphins scored 392 points in a single season was in 1995.
I believe this Miami Dolphins team is only a few players shy of reaching the playoffs in 2015. If they have a free agency and draft similar to last years, there is no reason not to think that they can reach the post season for the first time in 7 years.
Go Dolphins!
All this talk of mediocrity. About how the Dolphins are doomed, and not going anywhere. That they don't have the cap space to buy what they need in free agency. (Much less the draft positioning to get the impact players that will help them reach the playoffs). To all the naysayers out there I say....nonsense!
These Dolphins are in better position to make a push for the playoffs than they have been in 6 years. Yes, they need to recoup cap space by eliminating some of the dead weight. (But doesn't every team have that problem each year)? Dennis Hickey has done a good job with some of his free agency and draft picks. A second year will only get this franchise closer to building a team that will fit what Joe Philbin and company, are trying to field in Miami.
Bringing Mike Tannenbaum on board, (who some claim was instrumental in the Jets having back to back playoff seasons) should benefit this club as he will be able to offer his insight and expertise. Dawn Apointe has been shrewdly and successfully handling the contract negotiations for a number of years in Miami. With their help, Hickey should be able to procure the right personnel to guarantee this Dolphins team is playoff bound. It's a make or break season so everyone is going to have to work in concert to that end.
Miami has a 1,000 yard running back, (Lamar Miller) who's average yardage per attempt helped Miami become the second highest in the league. with a 4.7 yards per running attempt. Not bad when you consider Miami was predominantly a passing team. Miller was also running solo, without a lot of help from a, "change of pace" running back to spell him. And while the offensive line started to go downhill in week 9 when Branden Albert sustained a season ending injury, (allowing 46 sacks) they still managed to do enough to open up some running lanes.
The Dolphins had 3 players in the Pro Bowl. Cameron Wake, Brent Grimes and Mike Pouncey. All of which are healthy and will be back for 2015. There are a host of other players on this roster that could easily be starters for any team in the NFL. There were also some surprise first and second year players that showed considerable promise and upside for the coming year.
Unlike the beginning of the 2014 season Miami will not have to devote most of their resources to the entire offensive line. A starting guard or two and depth is all that is needed. Albert is ahead of schedule with his recovery and barring any unforeseen setbacks, could be available by the start of the first regular season game. The Dolphin offensive line was trending upward before Albert's injury. If Miami finds a serviceable guard and allows everyone to shuffle back to their regular positions, there is no telling how good their running and passing game will be.
This Dolphin team had a top 5 defense for three quarters of the season, before injuries and fatigue set in. Getting a few players healthy and a couple of key acquisitions will help shore up that side of the ball and make this team stingier in 2015. A run stuffing Linebacker, ball hawking Corner Back and Safety will certainly further their cause. The Dolphins could also use a big bodied Nose Tackle to draw double teams so the pass rushing duo of Cameron Wake and Olivier Vernon can do their thing. And would someone please find a way to successfully integrate Dion Jordan's unique skill set into the lineup.
The Dolphins have the highest price group of receivers in the NFL with a diverse mix of talent. If Miami trims the fat and brings in a big red zone target and/or a speedy receiver, our success inside the 20 and on third down conversions will improve. With better pass protection Ryan Tannehill might have enough time to let plays develop down field so he can finally start connecting on his deep passes. It showed signs of coming around near the end of the season. (Though he fell victim to several dropped balls that should have been caught).
Speaking of which, the biggest reason Miami will fare better in 2015 comes from the fact that they have resolved a problem that has plagued them for more than 15 years. They finally have a quarterback they can build an offense around. I know plenty of you will scoff at the idea that Ryan Tannehill could be a franchise quarterback. Many of you think he is at best, average and that there are other quarterbacks, (especially from his 2012 draft class) that are better. I'll admit, there are other young quarterbacks that have actually brought their teams to the playoffs and have won more games. But all of them are with teams that have had more tools and talent than Ryan has had to work with.
I won't bore you will all the statistics that show just how much Tannehill has progressed in his third year. He was only 64 yards away from breaking into the top ten quarterbacks last season. And who was just ahead of him in total passing yards? The quarterback that won the Super Bowl, Tom Brady. The only signal caller that came from the 2012 quarterback draft bonanza that made the top 10 list was Andrew Luck, and (the last time Miami played the Indianapolis Colts, they beat them). Only the Detroit Lion's Mathew Stafford has been sack nearly as many times as Ryan Tannehill. (45 Sacks versus 46). All the other top 10 quarterbacks were sacked at least, 10 fewer times than Tannehill.
The fact is, I don't think you will find another quarterback that has been sacked more than Ryan Tannehill over the last two seasons. Yet, he managed to throw for more than 4,000 yards, with a completion percentage that only 3 quarterbacks in the top 10 list surpassed. That is one tough, accurate passer that performs well under pressure. He also happened to be the 5th best rushing quarterback, too. This makes him a dual threat with athletic skills that few field generals can match.
And when you think about it, Tannehill's total passing yardage were a bit skewed as he didn't really start to show much improvement until the fourth game of the season against the Oakland Raiders. (A game where he was well on his way to 300 yards passing, were it not for Joe Philbin wisely pulling him out when the win was secured). There were also a couple of other contests where he wound up coasting late in the game because they had built up an insurmountable lead. (A Miami Dolphin team that runs the score up on it's opponent)?
After being with the same Offensive Coordinator/Coach for 5 years, it only took the preseason, and 3 regular season games for Ryan to start getting comfortable with the new offensive that Bill Lazor installed. That tells you how intelligent he is and how willing he was to work harder to make this new system productive. You have to believe that a second year under Lazor's tutelage is where Ryan Tannehill is really going to make the biggest strides in all facets of his game.
2014 was a, "getting acquainted" season for Bill Lazor and the Miami Dolphin players. Now that he has a better idea of what talents and abilities he has to work with, he will be able to utilize these skill sets to put this offense in a position to score and win games. This offense has already impressed under his reign. (Tannehill threw more pass completions than any quarterback in franchise history, last season). Rookie Jarvis Landry has made a huge contribution as a slot receiver in his first year, which is unheard of for a rookie. And Miami hasn't had a 1,000 yard Running Back since Ricky Williams. The last time the Dolphins scored 392 points in a single season was in 1995.
I believe this Miami Dolphins team is only a few players shy of reaching the playoffs in 2015. If they have a free agency and draft similar to last years, there is no reason not to think that they can reach the post season for the first time in 7 years.
Go Dolphins!
Dolphins Lose Battle Of Three Game Winning Streaks To Lions
The 5 - 3 Miami Dolphins traveled to the Motor City's 6 - 2 Lions for a head to head match up between two teams on three game winning streaks with two of the leagues three best defenses overall.
Miami with the leagues #3 defense, and #9 offense (at the very least) faced an equally compensated, talented and in desire of a win Detroit Lions team with the leagues #1 defense and #20 offense.
The Lions made plays all day from both sides of the ball while the Dolphins flashed on only a few instances, and gave up the go ahead touchdown with 29 fourth quarter seconds remaining. The NFC's Detroit Lions prevailed over Miami's Dolphins by a score of 20 - 16.
Calvin Johnson (the leagues best receiver) returned from injury for Detroit as his old self, and dominated with 7 receptions for 113 yards including a 49 yard touchdown while one of the leagues stats leaders among receivers Golden Tate of the Lions also cleared the century mark with 11 receptions for 109 yards.
Detroit threw the book at Miami, and held possession of the opening kick for 8:41 on 15 plays for 72 yards. Following a 3rd down Cam Wake sack of Matthew Stafford with a 4th & 6 at their own forty five yard line, the Lions executed a pass and catch from punter to full back for 22 yards on a fake punt. Miami's defense held at their own eight, and forced a Detroit field goal for a Lions lead of 3 - 0.
Ndamukong Suh of the Lions (the leagues noted most nastiest player) swung a kitchen sink at Miami's offensive line with a tackle for loss of two yards on the Dolphins opening rush attempt, and a 2nd down sack of Ryan Tannehill for a loss of ten on Miami's initial three play for negative seven yard touch of the ball. On 4th & 17 the Dolphins punted to their own 49 yard line where the Lions took possession. On first down, an absolutely perfect Matt Stafford 49 yard pass to an elegantly run route and catch by Calvin Johnson (despite great Brent Grimes coverage) resulted in a Lions 10 - 0 advantage.
The Lions Iggy Ansah dominated the following Dolphins possession of the ball with a first down tackle for loss of seven yards on a Jarvis Landry end-around, and a third down sack of minus eleven yards on Tannehill. Detroit's #1 defense came to play, and again forced Miami to go three & out for minus 13 yards. Miami punted from their own end zone, and the home team again took possession on Miami's side of the field at the 47 yard line. The Dolphin defense forced a Lions minus one yard three & out on consecutive incompletions with 32 first quarter seconds remaining.
Miami and Detroit exchanged short termed scoreless possessions, and the Dolphins took the ball at their own 38 yard line. Tannehill drove the Dolphins to the Lions 19 in completing three of four passes to Landry, Wallace, and Gibson. On 3rd & 7 he committed his one major mistake of the day with a five yard sideline toss that was intercepted at the 14. On the return of that same interception, Tannehill perhaps made his best play of the day in tracking down and making a line backer like tackle at Miami's 16 yard line on the returnee of what was an obvious easy pik-six opportunity. The Dolphins next extremely exceptional play of the day came via the one hand of Brent Grimes that got Tannehill off the hook with an end zone interception on Staffords first down play. Grimmey's pick was his fourth in three games.
The Dolphins took the ball 75 yards on 14 plays from their own twenty. Tannehill went 8 of 10 to six different receivers for 55 yards to Detroit's five yard line, from where Miami kicked a field goal on 4th & 4 to get on the board and pull within seven at 3 - 10, with thirteen meaningless fist half seconds remaining.
As the NFL's most proficient third quarter team in terms of scoring ratio. The Dolphins on three possessions scored 10 unanswered third quarter points to pull ahead of the Lions by a score of 13 - 10 going into the fourth quarter. Jarvis Landry returned the third quarters opening kick 46 yards, and on first down Tannehill hit Hartline for a 12 yard first down, on second down the ball was punched away from Daniel Thomas' grasp for a Detroit forced fumble and recovery.
Detroit went five & out for three yards with the aid of a Jelani Jenkins sack and loss of 10 yards on the Lions second first down attempt, and Miami took possession at their own forty three. The Dolphins covered 25 yards on seven plays, and kicked a 50 yard field goal for a four point deficit of 6 - 10.
The home team followed from their own 23 with a 55 yard drive on 12 plays to the visitors 24 yard line where they faced a 4th & 6 forty two yard field goal attempt. Miami defensive tackle Earl Mitchell made a play for the second consecutive week with a block of the kick as much maligned defensive end Dion Jordan scooped it up at the Dolphins 39, and did all he could to return it 58 yards to the Lions 3 yard line. On first and goal from the three Ryan Tannehill connected with Mike Wallace in the flat for a Dolphins TOUCHDOWN, and 13 - 10 scoreboard advantage. with 1:17 third quarter ticks to go.
Miami's host negated the Dolphin lead with a 50 yard possession on eight plays that concluded with a 4th & 26 fifty yard field goal to even it up at 13 - 13 three minutes into the fourth quarter. Cam Wake accrued his second sack of the day for a 9 yard loss on 3rd & 17.
Dolphin ball from their own 28 yard line with 12:02 to go drive 70 yards on thirteen plays in 7:43 to the Lions TWO YARD LINE where Charles Clay drops a Tannehill touchdown pass on 3rd down which forces a Miami go ahead field goal for a 16 - 13 lead.
The Dolphins #3 defense forces another Lions three and out on three consecutive incompletions, and regains ball control at their own 17 yard line with 3:47 remaining on the game clock. Detroit's #1 defense returns the favor with a three and out of their own, and have the ball at their own 26 yard line with 3:13 to go.
Coincidentally. The Detroit Lions end the game with a 3 minute and 8 second time of possession advantage which was the deciding factor as they held the ball last (with substantial time remaining), and drove 74 yards on eleven plays in 2:44 for a third down go ahead touchdown pass of eleven yards. Miami got the ball needing a touchdown with 29 seconds remaining in a hell of an exciting back and fourth defensive battle that the 5 - 3 Dolphins unfortunately lose to the 6 - 2 Lions by a final score of 20 - 16.
The now 7 - 2 on a four game winning streak Lions with 351 total yards (288 through the air & 63 on the ground) out gained the now 5 - 4 Dolphins (222 total, 172 & 50) in yardage by 129 total yards (116 via the pass) to the extraordinary receivers by the name of Calvin Johnson, and Golden Tate.
Stafford went 24 of 40 for 280 with two touchdowns and an interception while Tannehill was 27 of 38 for 201 with a touchdown and interception. Jarvis Landry led the Dolphins in receiving with 7 catches for 53 yards followed by Mike Wallace's 5 receptions for 50 yards with a touchdown, and Charles Clay's 7 for 45 yards.
Each team had three sacks (Jelani Jenkins & Cam Wake times two), and an interception (Brent Grimes) while the Lions forced a fumble (D Thomas) and recovery (that didn't cost the Dolphins points) to win the turnover battle.
One more note of extreme game/season consequence is that the Miami Dolphins lost their prize free agent acquisition of Left Tackle Brandon Albert (for the remainder of the year) on their final possession of the second quarter!!
""Drizzle, Drazzle, Driffle, Drumm, Time For this One To Go Home""
Have Solace Friends!!
You only need to endure for four days when your Miami Dolphins come home to kick some Buffalo hide on the nationally televised Thursday Night Football Game!!
The Miami Dolphins are one game behind the pace of the AFC's current 3rd, 4th, 5th seeds, and just one half game behind the present 6th seed. As is Buffalo with a 2 - 4 conference record while the Dolphins are 4 - 2 within the AFC.
THANK YOU for an Open-Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view :))!
Beat the Bills!!
GOFINS!!!
Miami with the leagues #3 defense, and #9 offense (at the very least) faced an equally compensated, talented and in desire of a win Detroit Lions team with the leagues #1 defense and #20 offense.
The Lions made plays all day from both sides of the ball while the Dolphins flashed on only a few instances, and gave up the go ahead touchdown with 29 fourth quarter seconds remaining. The NFC's Detroit Lions prevailed over Miami's Dolphins by a score of 20 - 16.
Calvin Johnson (the leagues best receiver) returned from injury for Detroit as his old self, and dominated with 7 receptions for 113 yards including a 49 yard touchdown while one of the leagues stats leaders among receivers Golden Tate of the Lions also cleared the century mark with 11 receptions for 109 yards.
Detroit threw the book at Miami, and held possession of the opening kick for 8:41 on 15 plays for 72 yards. Following a 3rd down Cam Wake sack of Matthew Stafford with a 4th & 6 at their own forty five yard line, the Lions executed a pass and catch from punter to full back for 22 yards on a fake punt. Miami's defense held at their own eight, and forced a Detroit field goal for a Lions lead of 3 - 0.
Ndamukong Suh of the Lions (the leagues noted most nastiest player) swung a kitchen sink at Miami's offensive line with a tackle for loss of two yards on the Dolphins opening rush attempt, and a 2nd down sack of Ryan Tannehill for a loss of ten on Miami's initial three play for negative seven yard touch of the ball. On 4th & 17 the Dolphins punted to their own 49 yard line where the Lions took possession. On first down, an absolutely perfect Matt Stafford 49 yard pass to an elegantly run route and catch by Calvin Johnson (despite great Brent Grimes coverage) resulted in a Lions 10 - 0 advantage.
The Lions Iggy Ansah dominated the following Dolphins possession of the ball with a first down tackle for loss of seven yards on a Jarvis Landry end-around, and a third down sack of minus eleven yards on Tannehill. Detroit's #1 defense came to play, and again forced Miami to go three & out for minus 13 yards. Miami punted from their own end zone, and the home team again took possession on Miami's side of the field at the 47 yard line. The Dolphin defense forced a Lions minus one yard three & out on consecutive incompletions with 32 first quarter seconds remaining.
Miami and Detroit exchanged short termed scoreless possessions, and the Dolphins took the ball at their own 38 yard line. Tannehill drove the Dolphins to the Lions 19 in completing three of four passes to Landry, Wallace, and Gibson. On 3rd & 7 he committed his one major mistake of the day with a five yard sideline toss that was intercepted at the 14. On the return of that same interception, Tannehill perhaps made his best play of the day in tracking down and making a line backer like tackle at Miami's 16 yard line on the returnee of what was an obvious easy pik-six opportunity. The Dolphins next extremely exceptional play of the day came via the one hand of Brent Grimes that got Tannehill off the hook with an end zone interception on Staffords first down play. Grimmey's pick was his fourth in three games.
The Dolphins took the ball 75 yards on 14 plays from their own twenty. Tannehill went 8 of 10 to six different receivers for 55 yards to Detroit's five yard line, from where Miami kicked a field goal on 4th & 4 to get on the board and pull within seven at 3 - 10, with thirteen meaningless fist half seconds remaining.
As the NFL's most proficient third quarter team in terms of scoring ratio. The Dolphins on three possessions scored 10 unanswered third quarter points to pull ahead of the Lions by a score of 13 - 10 going into the fourth quarter. Jarvis Landry returned the third quarters opening kick 46 yards, and on first down Tannehill hit Hartline for a 12 yard first down, on second down the ball was punched away from Daniel Thomas' grasp for a Detroit forced fumble and recovery.
Detroit went five & out for three yards with the aid of a Jelani Jenkins sack and loss of 10 yards on the Lions second first down attempt, and Miami took possession at their own forty three. The Dolphins covered 25 yards on seven plays, and kicked a 50 yard field goal for a four point deficit of 6 - 10.
The home team followed from their own 23 with a 55 yard drive on 12 plays to the visitors 24 yard line where they faced a 4th & 6 forty two yard field goal attempt. Miami defensive tackle Earl Mitchell made a play for the second consecutive week with a block of the kick as much maligned defensive end Dion Jordan scooped it up at the Dolphins 39, and did all he could to return it 58 yards to the Lions 3 yard line. On first and goal from the three Ryan Tannehill connected with Mike Wallace in the flat for a Dolphins TOUCHDOWN, and 13 - 10 scoreboard advantage. with 1:17 third quarter ticks to go.
Miami's host negated the Dolphin lead with a 50 yard possession on eight plays that concluded with a 4th & 26 fifty yard field goal to even it up at 13 - 13 three minutes into the fourth quarter. Cam Wake accrued his second sack of the day for a 9 yard loss on 3rd & 17.
Dolphin ball from their own 28 yard line with 12:02 to go drive 70 yards on thirteen plays in 7:43 to the Lions TWO YARD LINE where Charles Clay drops a Tannehill touchdown pass on 3rd down which forces a Miami go ahead field goal for a 16 - 13 lead.
The Dolphins #3 defense forces another Lions three and out on three consecutive incompletions, and regains ball control at their own 17 yard line with 3:47 remaining on the game clock. Detroit's #1 defense returns the favor with a three and out of their own, and have the ball at their own 26 yard line with 3:13 to go.
Coincidentally. The Detroit Lions end the game with a 3 minute and 8 second time of possession advantage which was the deciding factor as they held the ball last (with substantial time remaining), and drove 74 yards on eleven plays in 2:44 for a third down go ahead touchdown pass of eleven yards. Miami got the ball needing a touchdown with 29 seconds remaining in a hell of an exciting back and fourth defensive battle that the 5 - 3 Dolphins unfortunately lose to the 6 - 2 Lions by a final score of 20 - 16.
The now 7 - 2 on a four game winning streak Lions with 351 total yards (288 through the air & 63 on the ground) out gained the now 5 - 4 Dolphins (222 total, 172 & 50) in yardage by 129 total yards (116 via the pass) to the extraordinary receivers by the name of Calvin Johnson, and Golden Tate.
Stafford went 24 of 40 for 280 with two touchdowns and an interception while Tannehill was 27 of 38 for 201 with a touchdown and interception. Jarvis Landry led the Dolphins in receiving with 7 catches for 53 yards followed by Mike Wallace's 5 receptions for 50 yards with a touchdown, and Charles Clay's 7 for 45 yards.
Each team had three sacks (Jelani Jenkins & Cam Wake times two), and an interception (Brent Grimes) while the Lions forced a fumble (D Thomas) and recovery (that didn't cost the Dolphins points) to win the turnover battle.
One more note of extreme game/season consequence is that the Miami Dolphins lost their prize free agent acquisition of Left Tackle Brandon Albert (for the remainder of the year) on their final possession of the second quarter!!
""Drizzle, Drazzle, Driffle, Drumm, Time For this One To Go Home""
Have Solace Friends!!
You only need to endure for four days when your Miami Dolphins come home to kick some Buffalo hide on the nationally televised Thursday Night Football Game!!
The Miami Dolphins are one game behind the pace of the AFC's current 3rd, 4th, 5th seeds, and just one half game behind the present 6th seed. As is Buffalo with a 2 - 4 conference record while the Dolphins are 4 - 2 within the AFC.
THANK YOU for an Open-Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view :))!
Beat the Bills!!
GOFINS!!!
Miami Dolphins 37 - 0 Surge Short Circuits Chargers
Through eight 2014 NFL games the 5 - 3, and AFC fifth seeded San Diego Chargers went south to face the 4 - 3 Miami Dolphins.
Miami has the Dolphins (your favorite) football team, they're moving the ball from goal to goal like (no one since thirteen), whether through the air or on the ground they've been (often) in control, and when you say Miami you're talking (on a roll)!!
Cuz we're the Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins Number One !!
Today.
The Dolphins splashed about the confines of their Miami aquarium, and doused the highly explosive power grid that is the Chargers. San Diego's quarterback Phillip Rivers came into the day with the leagues third most touchdown passes (20), and only five interceptions thrown while the Charger superstar tight end Antonio Gates entered the game with nine scores in just eight games.
In case the title to this piece moistened your eye's to a blur?
The Miami Dolphins started fast, finished strong, and won the game THIRTY SEVEN to ZERO!
Since the return of starting safety Rashad Jones four games ago, the Miami defense has been catapulted to an elite level, and versus the Chargers they were even better. Rashad Jones has led the team in tackles in all four weeks since his return, and contributed an interception on this day, (his second of the season). For the second consecutive game corner back Brent Grimes had an interception, this time he had two for a season total of four to go along with a pik-six last week, and the Dolphins have six interceptions over the last three games with nine for the season.
Miami has four sacks in two successive outings with eleven over the last three games. Randy Starks set the tone early with a sack of the nearly elite Phillip Rivers on the games very first offensive play for a loss of three yards. The first, and lone substantial San Diego drive of the day covered fifty seven yards in twelve plays only to end on a fourth and one (Rashad Jones) stuff of the running back at the Dolphin twenty three yard line.
The Chargers second possession went three and out for nine yards. Rashad Jones had his interception on the first play of the visitors third touch of the ball. San Diego's fourth series went five and out for sixteen yards which happened to be identical to their fifth and final first half possession. For the first half of play, the Chargers offensive unit snapped the ball twenty five times for ninety eight yards, and ZERO POINTS in five possessions!
On six second half series, San Diego ran twenty four plays for forty eight yards, and ZERO POINTS! Their first second half possession went seventeen yards on six plays, and ended upon Brent Grimes' first interception of the day that he returned twenty six yards to the Chargers nineteen.
The Miami defense splashed again on the visitors following three and out for six yards touch of the ball. Defensive Lineman (Earl Mitchell) got his first sack of the season for a loss of eight yards, and a second Brent Grimes interception of an attempted bomb ended the series on second and eighteen.
Upon the high voltage Chargers third second half possession that netted one yard on three plays, Olivier Vernon executed a third and nine sack and a forced fumble via Rivers that Jared Odrick recovered at the Chargers fourteen.
Charger quarterback Phillip Rivers is benched with 120 third quarter ticks of the clock remaining. Kellen Clemons replaces the near elite Rivers for the Chargers final three possessions of the game, and is greeted by Cam Wake on third and five of a four play for one yard series that ended the third quarter. For the visitors two fourth quarter possessions they ran eight plays for twenty three yards, and ZERO POINTS!
And that's the way it ended, hail to the Miami Dolphin Defense.
Ohh-Wait, Almost forgot.
The Dolphin Offense splashed about through electrified hoops too!
ZERO to ZERO with 7:36 remaining in the first quarter. Miami's first possession with a first down ball at their own twenty three. On consecutive plays that started with a Jarvis Landry reception for nine yards, Lamar Miller run for seven, Charles Clay catch for twenty four, Miller rush for five, Mike Wallace grab for five, Landry for thirteen, Miller run for six, Brian Hartline reception for six, and a Miller rush for one to San Diego's six yard line. The ten play's in 5:56, seventy seven yard drive ended with a Charles Clay six yard TOUCHDOWN from Ryan Tannehill who went six of six for sixty three passing yards, and a Miami Dolphin first quarter lead of Seven to ZERO!
Next Miami possession takes 3:42 to "matriculate" sixty one yards in eight plays. First and ten at the Dolphins thirty nine, Tannehill up the middle for four yards. Following a second down and six incompletion/drop, Tannehill hits Landry for seven, then Clay for another eighteen. On first and ten from the Chargers thirty two Tannehill runs around the right end for twenty two yards and another first down, then hits Miller for an eight yard reception. Third and two from San Diego's two yard line, Lamar Miller TOUCHDOWN for a home team early second quarter advantage of Fourteen to ZERO!
Following the Rashad Jones pick on the visitors third series of one play. The Dolphins have the ball at the Chargers thirty one yard line, they gather a first down on first down with a twenty one yard reception and run for reserve running back Damien Williams to the opponents ten. The series stalls with an incompletion to Brandon Gibson (who was dragging a defender), a Williams rush for nadda, as well as a two yard pass to the running back. Miami kicks a twenty six yard field goal for a Seventeen to ZERO game six minutes into the second quarter.
The Chargers go three and out. Miami takes possession at the Dolphin thirty with 7:23 remaining in the first half. Daniel Thomas shakes and bakes a one yard reception for twelve, and on the Dolphins second third down attempt of the drive Tannehill hits Wallace for thirty eight yards to the San Diego six. They pass on first down to Thomas for two yards, but a negative rush attempt, and an incompletion results in an eleven play, sixty three yard drive in 5:36 for a twenty five yard field goal which puts the home team lead at Twenty to ZERO.
Miami gets the ball one last time in the first half with 1:03 to go. They drive forty eight yards in eight plays from their own twenty four to the San Diego twenty eight, but miss the forty five yard field goal attempt as the clock runs out with a Miami Dolphin scoreboard advantage of Twenty to ZERO!
The Dolphins have accrued 283 total yards (208 passing, 75 rushing on 13 attempts). Ryan Tannehill is 18 of 25 for 208 to seven different receivers. The Chargers have 118 total yards (14 rushing). Miami's defense has one sack, and one interception.
Third Quarter. Miami ball, first down at their own twenty eight, Tannehill to Hartline for eighteen. On the drives third first down play Tannehill runs around the left end for eleven more first down yards, and on second and ten Miller rushes for fourteen yards and the drives fifth first down opportunity at the Chargers twenty one. Second and ten, Tannehill eludes a fierce sack attack, gets creative in extending the play for an end zone TOUCHDOWN pass to Rishard Matthews, and Twenty Seven to ZERO Dolphin lead.
Brent Grimes' first interception occurs on the Chargers following possession, and Miami has the ball at the visitors nineteen yard line. Tannehill goes one for three, the Dolphins cover fourteen yards on six plays, and kick a twenty three yard field goal for a Thirty to ZERO score.
A first down Earl Mitchell sack is immediately followed by a second Brent Grimes interception, this one was of the long bomb variety, and Miami takes control at their own twenty nine. On first down Tannehill completes a pass of eleven yards to Clay, The Dolphin then take the conservative route with three rushes for nine yards, and with 2:53 remaining in the third quarter Brandon Fields has his first and only punt of the day.
Charger ball at their own eleven, third down and nine, Olivier Vernon sacks and forces a Phillip Rivers fumble that is recovered by Jared Odrick at the San Diego fourteen yard line. Miami ball, first and ten. Ryan Tannehill completes short pass to Jarvis Landry who tip-toes down the sideline while towing a double-wide Charger trailer for another Miami Dolphin TOUCHDOWN, and THIRTY SEVEN to ZERO scoreboard final!`
With two third quarter minutes remaining Phillip Rivers is benched. Kellen Clemons reluctantly replaces him and is greeted by Cam Wake for minus five yards on third and five. The sack was Miami's fourth and final of the day, and the third quarter ended upon the punt.
With a Thirty Seven to ZERO Dolphin Victory in hand!
The Miami Dolphins Franchise Quarterback Ryan Tannehill is sat down in order to preserve his health. Not a whole lot took place in the fourth quarter, though Matt Moore did drive the team forty six yards into the Chargers red zone, as Miami exhibited professional courtesy in turning the ball over on downs rather than taking a chip shot field goal of the rub it in your face variety with 26 ticks of the clock to go.
Miami ran 74 plays to accrue 441 yards for a six yard per play average via (309 passing on 39 attempts, and 132 rushing in 35 carries) with 28 first downs (17 through the air, and 10 via the rush) in 36:07. San Diego had 49 plays for 178 yards (128 passing, and 50 on the ground) in 23:53. The Dolphin Defense had four sacks, a forced fumble, and three interceptions.
Lamar Miller ran 11 times for 49 yards with a touchdown, and Tannehill had 4 attempts for 47 yards. Charles Clay led the receiving game with 5 catches for 65 yards and a touchdown while others were also equal to the task. To name a few of the nine different receivers that Tannehill connected with. Hartline had 5 for 50, Wallace snagged 3 for 50, Landry caught 5 for 46 with a touchdown, and Rishard Matthews had one reception for 21 yards and a touchdown.
Ryan Tannehill had his career day two weeks ago in Chicago. Today he eclipsed that performance while going 24 of 34 for 288 yards with three touchdowns, zero interceptions, zero sacks, and a QBR of 94.5 with an overall RTG of 125.6. He has fourteen touchdowns to six interceptions on the year, and the Miami Dolphins are 5 - 3 at the mid season point.
Thank You for an Open Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!
THIRTY SEVEN to ZERO, GIGGGITTTYYY!!
Beat The Lions!!
GOFINS!!!
Miami has the Dolphins (your favorite) football team, they're moving the ball from goal to goal like (no one since thirteen), whether through the air or on the ground they've been (often) in control, and when you say Miami you're talking (on a roll)!!
Cuz we're the Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins, Miami Dolphins Number One !!
Today.
The Dolphins splashed about the confines of their Miami aquarium, and doused the highly explosive power grid that is the Chargers. San Diego's quarterback Phillip Rivers came into the day with the leagues third most touchdown passes (20), and only five interceptions thrown while the Charger superstar tight end Antonio Gates entered the game with nine scores in just eight games.
In case the title to this piece moistened your eye's to a blur?
The Miami Dolphins started fast, finished strong, and won the game THIRTY SEVEN to ZERO!
Since the return of starting safety Rashad Jones four games ago, the Miami defense has been catapulted to an elite level, and versus the Chargers they were even better. Rashad Jones has led the team in tackles in all four weeks since his return, and contributed an interception on this day, (his second of the season). For the second consecutive game corner back Brent Grimes had an interception, this time he had two for a season total of four to go along with a pik-six last week, and the Dolphins have six interceptions over the last three games with nine for the season.
Miami has four sacks in two successive outings with eleven over the last three games. Randy Starks set the tone early with a sack of the nearly elite Phillip Rivers on the games very first offensive play for a loss of three yards. The first, and lone substantial San Diego drive of the day covered fifty seven yards in twelve plays only to end on a fourth and one (Rashad Jones) stuff of the running back at the Dolphin twenty three yard line.
The Chargers second possession went three and out for nine yards. Rashad Jones had his interception on the first play of the visitors third touch of the ball. San Diego's fourth series went five and out for sixteen yards which happened to be identical to their fifth and final first half possession. For the first half of play, the Chargers offensive unit snapped the ball twenty five times for ninety eight yards, and ZERO POINTS in five possessions!
On six second half series, San Diego ran twenty four plays for forty eight yards, and ZERO POINTS! Their first second half possession went seventeen yards on six plays, and ended upon Brent Grimes' first interception of the day that he returned twenty six yards to the Chargers nineteen.
The Miami defense splashed again on the visitors following three and out for six yards touch of the ball. Defensive Lineman (Earl Mitchell) got his first sack of the season for a loss of eight yards, and a second Brent Grimes interception of an attempted bomb ended the series on second and eighteen.
Upon the high voltage Chargers third second half possession that netted one yard on three plays, Olivier Vernon executed a third and nine sack and a forced fumble via Rivers that Jared Odrick recovered at the Chargers fourteen.
Charger quarterback Phillip Rivers is benched with 120 third quarter ticks of the clock remaining. Kellen Clemons replaces the near elite Rivers for the Chargers final three possessions of the game, and is greeted by Cam Wake on third and five of a four play for one yard series that ended the third quarter. For the visitors two fourth quarter possessions they ran eight plays for twenty three yards, and ZERO POINTS!
And that's the way it ended, hail to the Miami Dolphin Defense.
Ohh-Wait, Almost forgot.
The Dolphin Offense splashed about through electrified hoops too!
ZERO to ZERO with 7:36 remaining in the first quarter. Miami's first possession with a first down ball at their own twenty three. On consecutive plays that started with a Jarvis Landry reception for nine yards, Lamar Miller run for seven, Charles Clay catch for twenty four, Miller rush for five, Mike Wallace grab for five, Landry for thirteen, Miller run for six, Brian Hartline reception for six, and a Miller rush for one to San Diego's six yard line. The ten play's in 5:56, seventy seven yard drive ended with a Charles Clay six yard TOUCHDOWN from Ryan Tannehill who went six of six for sixty three passing yards, and a Miami Dolphin first quarter lead of Seven to ZERO!
Next Miami possession takes 3:42 to "matriculate" sixty one yards in eight plays. First and ten at the Dolphins thirty nine, Tannehill up the middle for four yards. Following a second down and six incompletion/drop, Tannehill hits Landry for seven, then Clay for another eighteen. On first and ten from the Chargers thirty two Tannehill runs around the right end for twenty two yards and another first down, then hits Miller for an eight yard reception. Third and two from San Diego's two yard line, Lamar Miller TOUCHDOWN for a home team early second quarter advantage of Fourteen to ZERO!
Following the Rashad Jones pick on the visitors third series of one play. The Dolphins have the ball at the Chargers thirty one yard line, they gather a first down on first down with a twenty one yard reception and run for reserve running back Damien Williams to the opponents ten. The series stalls with an incompletion to Brandon Gibson (who was dragging a defender), a Williams rush for nadda, as well as a two yard pass to the running back. Miami kicks a twenty six yard field goal for a Seventeen to ZERO game six minutes into the second quarter.
The Chargers go three and out. Miami takes possession at the Dolphin thirty with 7:23 remaining in the first half. Daniel Thomas shakes and bakes a one yard reception for twelve, and on the Dolphins second third down attempt of the drive Tannehill hits Wallace for thirty eight yards to the San Diego six. They pass on first down to Thomas for two yards, but a negative rush attempt, and an incompletion results in an eleven play, sixty three yard drive in 5:36 for a twenty five yard field goal which puts the home team lead at Twenty to ZERO.
Miami gets the ball one last time in the first half with 1:03 to go. They drive forty eight yards in eight plays from their own twenty four to the San Diego twenty eight, but miss the forty five yard field goal attempt as the clock runs out with a Miami Dolphin scoreboard advantage of Twenty to ZERO!
The Dolphins have accrued 283 total yards (208 passing, 75 rushing on 13 attempts). Ryan Tannehill is 18 of 25 for 208 to seven different receivers. The Chargers have 118 total yards (14 rushing). Miami's defense has one sack, and one interception.
Third Quarter. Miami ball, first down at their own twenty eight, Tannehill to Hartline for eighteen. On the drives third first down play Tannehill runs around the left end for eleven more first down yards, and on second and ten Miller rushes for fourteen yards and the drives fifth first down opportunity at the Chargers twenty one. Second and ten, Tannehill eludes a fierce sack attack, gets creative in extending the play for an end zone TOUCHDOWN pass to Rishard Matthews, and Twenty Seven to ZERO Dolphin lead.
Brent Grimes' first interception occurs on the Chargers following possession, and Miami has the ball at the visitors nineteen yard line. Tannehill goes one for three, the Dolphins cover fourteen yards on six plays, and kick a twenty three yard field goal for a Thirty to ZERO score.
A first down Earl Mitchell sack is immediately followed by a second Brent Grimes interception, this one was of the long bomb variety, and Miami takes control at their own twenty nine. On first down Tannehill completes a pass of eleven yards to Clay, The Dolphin then take the conservative route with three rushes for nine yards, and with 2:53 remaining in the third quarter Brandon Fields has his first and only punt of the day.
Charger ball at their own eleven, third down and nine, Olivier Vernon sacks and forces a Phillip Rivers fumble that is recovered by Jared Odrick at the San Diego fourteen yard line. Miami ball, first and ten. Ryan Tannehill completes short pass to Jarvis Landry who tip-toes down the sideline while towing a double-wide Charger trailer for another Miami Dolphin TOUCHDOWN, and THIRTY SEVEN to ZERO scoreboard final!`
With two third quarter minutes remaining Phillip Rivers is benched. Kellen Clemons reluctantly replaces him and is greeted by Cam Wake for minus five yards on third and five. The sack was Miami's fourth and final of the day, and the third quarter ended upon the punt.
With a Thirty Seven to ZERO Dolphin Victory in hand!
The Miami Dolphins Franchise Quarterback Ryan Tannehill is sat down in order to preserve his health. Not a whole lot took place in the fourth quarter, though Matt Moore did drive the team forty six yards into the Chargers red zone, as Miami exhibited professional courtesy in turning the ball over on downs rather than taking a chip shot field goal of the rub it in your face variety with 26 ticks of the clock to go.
Miami ran 74 plays to accrue 441 yards for a six yard per play average via (309 passing on 39 attempts, and 132 rushing in 35 carries) with 28 first downs (17 through the air, and 10 via the rush) in 36:07. San Diego had 49 plays for 178 yards (128 passing, and 50 on the ground) in 23:53. The Dolphin Defense had four sacks, a forced fumble, and three interceptions.
Lamar Miller ran 11 times for 49 yards with a touchdown, and Tannehill had 4 attempts for 47 yards. Charles Clay led the receiving game with 5 catches for 65 yards and a touchdown while others were also equal to the task. To name a few of the nine different receivers that Tannehill connected with. Hartline had 5 for 50, Wallace snagged 3 for 50, Landry caught 5 for 46 with a touchdown, and Rishard Matthews had one reception for 21 yards and a touchdown.
Ryan Tannehill had his career day two weeks ago in Chicago. Today he eclipsed that performance while going 24 of 34 for 288 yards with three touchdowns, zero interceptions, zero sacks, and a QBR of 94.5 with an overall RTG of 125.6. He has fourteen touchdowns to six interceptions on the year, and the Miami Dolphins are 5 - 3 at the mid season point.
Thank You for an Open Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!
THIRTY SEVEN to ZERO, GIGGGITTTYYY!!
Beat The Lions!!
GOFINS!!!
Dolphins Defense Take Jaguars To The House
The 1 - 6 with nothing to lose Jacksonville Jaguars played territorial Tom-Cat while hosting the 3 - 3 Miami Dolphins on week eight of the 2014 season. Jacksonville's NFL number two ranked in defensive sacks Jaguars put the Dolphin quarterback upon his buttocks once in each of his two first quarter possessions that went three and out. Miami's third touch of the ball was also a three and out, but at least quarterback Ryan Tannehill wasn't sacked due to an Offensive Lineman getting schooled.
Jacksonville opened the game with 45 yards rushing on the first two plays from their own 20. They accrued fifty yards in all on five plays in two and a half minutes as Miami's defense forced a fourth and five field goal attempt from the Dolphins thirty yard line. The attempt was then blocked by rising star Olivier Vernon, gathered in at Miami's twenty five by defensive back Mike Thomas who returned it to the Dolphins forty three, and just missed by the width of his foot from taking it to the end zone.
Following Miami's initial possession. Jacksonville took five minutes in covering forty six yards on eleven plays to Miami's twenty eight. On fourth and four the Jags made a forty six yard field goal that was nullified by an offensive holding penalty, and was inclined to punt on fourth and fourteen.
The Dolphins were badly losing the game of field position after a second sack induced hot-potato like possession of three and out, this time from their own nine yard line. Jacksonville took possession one yard south into Miami territory, gathered a first down on four running plays for ten yards, and covered another sixteen yards on two eight yard passes to the Dolphins twenty three for another Jaguars first down to end the first quarter at zero to zero.
On the first play of the second quarter the Miami Dolphins free agent acquisition of Louis Delmas paid off with an interception return of eighty one yards, and a DOLPHIN PIK-SIX TOUCHDOWN for a 7 - 0 lead versus the Jaguars rookie quarterback sensation Blake Bortles.
On fourteen plays for sixty six yards in another eight plus minutes of the second quarter the Jaguars drove to the Miami twelve where they kicked a field goal on fourth and two. Jacksonville accrued four first downs on the drive, ate up a whole bunch of clock, while the Dolphins reserve linebacker Jonathan Freeny managed a sack, and Miami remained ahead by a score of 7 - 3.
As previously mentioned the Dolphins third (clearing of throat) series also resulted in another Miami offensive three and out, this time for minus four yards from their own twenty two yard line, and Jacksonville was back at the Dolphins forty with a first down after just one offensive play. On second and seven Blake Bortles scrambled for nine yards and a first down prior to Dolphin linebacker Jelani Jenkins forcing of a fumble that was recovered by safety Louis Delmas at the Miami twenty three.
Hallelujah. The Miami Dolphins gain thirteen yards in two plays for their initial first down of the game with three minutes and twelve seconds remaining in the first half of play. Miami proceeds fifty two yards on eleven plays for a forty six yard field goal with fifty eight seconds remaining. Cam Wake sacked Bortles on first and ten of the Jags final first half possession, and the clock hits zero upon the completion of second down which results in a Dolphin 10 - 3 half time lead.
The Jacksonville Jaguars hold a twelve plus minute Time Of Possession advantage, are up eleven to one in first downs gathered, and have accrued 219 Offensive yards to the Miami Dolphins fifty six. Blake Bortles (two sacks) goes 10 of 17 for 108 with a pik-six and a fumble as the Jaguar running backs contribute the other 100 plus yards. Ryan Tannehill while being hindered by (two sacks), and dropped balls as well as errant tosses under pressure is 5 of 12 for 41 yards with fourteen of Miami's fifteen rushing yards coming via his own two attempts. The Home team is winning in the trenches while losing on the scoreboard 10 - 3.
Third Quarter, Miami gets the opening kick.
New Game? Uh Nope. Maybe?
Ryan completes a first and ten attempt for eleven yards to Jarvis Landry from the Miami twenty nine, but the possession is again stalled by a third down and long sack of Tannehill. The Dolphins punt from their own thirty and the Jags take control with a first down at their own seven yard line.
Can you say Grimes To'Da'House? On first down Miami Cornerback Brent Grimes returns a Blake Bortles interception twenty two yards for a second M.D.House-Call, and another defensive TOUCHDOWN for a 17 - 3 Dolphin lead.
The Jaguars from their own twenty progress down the field in ten plays for fifty eight yards to the Dolphin twenty two, and kick's a forty yard field goal on fourth and three to scratch their way to within 17 - 6. Miami then follows up with yet another three and out which is proceeded by a Jacksonville six and out of twelve yards gained. The Dolphins halted the Jags series via a Rashad Jones sack of Bortles on third and ten at the opponents forty nine yard line.
Miami takes possession at their own five yard line upon the Jaguars punt. Lamar Miller nets three yards on two attempts, and on third and seven Ryan Tannehill completes a fifty yard pass (sixty-plus through the air) to Mike Wallace at the oppositions forty two. After an incompletion to Wallace on first down, Miller rushes for nine and thirty yards consecutively to the Jaguars three yard line. On first and goal Ryan Tannehill hits Rishard Matthews for the Dolphins only offensive TOUCHDOWN. The drive covered ninety five yards in seven plays and gave Miami a 24 - 6 scoreboard advantage with 2:18 remaining in the third quarter.
The Jaguars go three and out as Miami starts the fourth quarter with a second down and ten from their own thirty two yard line. Daniel Thomas runs for eleven yards on two attempts, while Tannehill completes five of six passes for forty seven yards and a first and goal opportunity at the Jacksonville five yard line. At this point after driving sixty three yards in ten plays, the Miami offensive coordinator Bill Lazor put his quarterback in a position of failure with a call of a short middle pass that was deflected up at the line of scrimmage and intercepted in the End Zone. Sorry, but on first and goal from the opponents five yard line with a 24 - 6 fourth quarter lead you run the ball four times, or kick a field goal on the fourth play! You DO NOT call for a first down pass attempt through the trenches mass of waving arms!
Aided by another third down sack of Bortles (via Terrance Fede) Miami's defense forced a six and out for eleven yards, and the Dolphins offense took control at their own twenty one after a Jaguars punt with 8:21 fourth quarter clicks to go.
Tannehill went two of three for forty seven yards including a long thirty eight yard completion to Tight End Dion Sims, Lamar Miller rushed for nineteen yards on three carries, and Daniel Thomas had an attempt for seven yards. The possession covered sixty eight yards on nine plays in 4.5 minutes and resulted in a Caleb Sturgis field goal of twenty nine yards and a Miami Dolphins 27 - 6 lead with fewer than four game minutes remaining.
Jacksonville went eighty yards in five plays and scored their only touchdown of the day in garbage time for a final score of DOLPHINS 27 to the JAGUARS 13.
Miami rushed the ball for 133 second half yards to total 148 led by Lamar Millers 14 carries for 78 yards. Ryan Tannehill had five rush attempts for forty eight yards, and ended the day with 16 completions on 29 passes for 196 yards through the air with one touchdown and one interception. Miami narrowed down the twelve plus minute first half time of possession disadvantage to under five minutes, closed the 160 plus total yard first half deficit to 51 yards (377 to 326), and accrued 17 first downs to the Jags 19 by games end. The Dolphins defense sacked Bortles four times, forced him to fumble once, and took him To'Da'House twice.
Thank You for an Open Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view :) !!
Beat the Chargers, GOFINS!!!
The 4 - 3 Miami Dolphins host the 5 - 3 San Diego Chargers on week nine and will have to play far more efficiently on both offense and defense in order to have a chance at victory.
Jacksonville opened the game with 45 yards rushing on the first two plays from their own 20. They accrued fifty yards in all on five plays in two and a half minutes as Miami's defense forced a fourth and five field goal attempt from the Dolphins thirty yard line. The attempt was then blocked by rising star Olivier Vernon, gathered in at Miami's twenty five by defensive back Mike Thomas who returned it to the Dolphins forty three, and just missed by the width of his foot from taking it to the end zone.
Following Miami's initial possession. Jacksonville took five minutes in covering forty six yards on eleven plays to Miami's twenty eight. On fourth and four the Jags made a forty six yard field goal that was nullified by an offensive holding penalty, and was inclined to punt on fourth and fourteen.
The Dolphins were badly losing the game of field position after a second sack induced hot-potato like possession of three and out, this time from their own nine yard line. Jacksonville took possession one yard south into Miami territory, gathered a first down on four running plays for ten yards, and covered another sixteen yards on two eight yard passes to the Dolphins twenty three for another Jaguars first down to end the first quarter at zero to zero.
On fourteen plays for sixty six yards in another eight plus minutes of the second quarter the Jaguars drove to the Miami twelve where they kicked a field goal on fourth and two. Jacksonville accrued four first downs on the drive, ate up a whole bunch of clock, while the Dolphins reserve linebacker Jonathan Freeny managed a sack, and Miami remained ahead by a score of 7 - 3.
As previously mentioned the Dolphins third (clearing of throat) series also resulted in another Miami offensive three and out, this time for minus four yards from their own twenty two yard line, and Jacksonville was back at the Dolphins forty with a first down after just one offensive play. On second and seven Blake Bortles scrambled for nine yards and a first down prior to Dolphin linebacker Jelani Jenkins forcing of a fumble that was recovered by safety Louis Delmas at the Miami twenty three.
Hallelujah. The Miami Dolphins gain thirteen yards in two plays for their initial first down of the game with three minutes and twelve seconds remaining in the first half of play. Miami proceeds fifty two yards on eleven plays for a forty six yard field goal with fifty eight seconds remaining. Cam Wake sacked Bortles on first and ten of the Jags final first half possession, and the clock hits zero upon the completion of second down which results in a Dolphin 10 - 3 half time lead.
The Jacksonville Jaguars hold a twelve plus minute Time Of Possession advantage, are up eleven to one in first downs gathered, and have accrued 219 Offensive yards to the Miami Dolphins fifty six. Blake Bortles (two sacks) goes 10 of 17 for 108 with a pik-six and a fumble as the Jaguar running backs contribute the other 100 plus yards. Ryan Tannehill while being hindered by (two sacks), and dropped balls as well as errant tosses under pressure is 5 of 12 for 41 yards with fourteen of Miami's fifteen rushing yards coming via his own two attempts. The Home team is winning in the trenches while losing on the scoreboard 10 - 3.
Third Quarter, Miami gets the opening kick.
New Game? Uh Nope. Maybe?
Ryan completes a first and ten attempt for eleven yards to Jarvis Landry from the Miami twenty nine, but the possession is again stalled by a third down and long sack of Tannehill. The Dolphins punt from their own thirty and the Jags take control with a first down at their own seven yard line.
The Jaguars from their own twenty progress down the field in ten plays for fifty eight yards to the Dolphin twenty two, and kick's a forty yard field goal on fourth and three to scratch their way to within 17 - 6. Miami then follows up with yet another three and out which is proceeded by a Jacksonville six and out of twelve yards gained. The Dolphins halted the Jags series via a Rashad Jones sack of Bortles on third and ten at the opponents forty nine yard line.
Miami takes possession at their own five yard line upon the Jaguars punt. Lamar Miller nets three yards on two attempts, and on third and seven Ryan Tannehill completes a fifty yard pass (sixty-plus through the air) to Mike Wallace at the oppositions forty two. After an incompletion to Wallace on first down, Miller rushes for nine and thirty yards consecutively to the Jaguars three yard line. On first and goal Ryan Tannehill hits Rishard Matthews for the Dolphins only offensive TOUCHDOWN. The drive covered ninety five yards in seven plays and gave Miami a 24 - 6 scoreboard advantage with 2:18 remaining in the third quarter.
The Jaguars go three and out as Miami starts the fourth quarter with a second down and ten from their own thirty two yard line. Daniel Thomas runs for eleven yards on two attempts, while Tannehill completes five of six passes for forty seven yards and a first and goal opportunity at the Jacksonville five yard line. At this point after driving sixty three yards in ten plays, the Miami offensive coordinator Bill Lazor put his quarterback in a position of failure with a call of a short middle pass that was deflected up at the line of scrimmage and intercepted in the End Zone. Sorry, but on first and goal from the opponents five yard line with a 24 - 6 fourth quarter lead you run the ball four times, or kick a field goal on the fourth play! You DO NOT call for a first down pass attempt through the trenches mass of waving arms!
Aided by another third down sack of Bortles (via Terrance Fede) Miami's defense forced a six and out for eleven yards, and the Dolphins offense took control at their own twenty one after a Jaguars punt with 8:21 fourth quarter clicks to go.
Tannehill went two of three for forty seven yards including a long thirty eight yard completion to Tight End Dion Sims, Lamar Miller rushed for nineteen yards on three carries, and Daniel Thomas had an attempt for seven yards. The possession covered sixty eight yards on nine plays in 4.5 minutes and resulted in a Caleb Sturgis field goal of twenty nine yards and a Miami Dolphins 27 - 6 lead with fewer than four game minutes remaining.
Jacksonville went eighty yards in five plays and scored their only touchdown of the day in garbage time for a final score of DOLPHINS 27 to the JAGUARS 13.
Miami rushed the ball for 133 second half yards to total 148 led by Lamar Millers 14 carries for 78 yards. Ryan Tannehill had five rush attempts for forty eight yards, and ended the day with 16 completions on 29 passes for 196 yards through the air with one touchdown and one interception. Miami narrowed down the twelve plus minute first half time of possession disadvantage to under five minutes, closed the 160 plus total yard first half deficit to 51 yards (377 to 326), and accrued 17 first downs to the Jags 19 by games end. The Dolphins defense sacked Bortles four times, forced him to fumble once, and took him To'Da'House twice.
Thank You for an Open Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view :) !!
Beat the Chargers, GOFINS!!!
The 4 - 3 Miami Dolphins host the 5 - 3 San Diego Chargers on week nine and will have to play far more efficiently on both offense and defense in order to have a chance at victory.
Miami Dolphins Frolic Across The Pond
The Oakland Raiders tootled around London for seven days whilst the Miami Dolphins stuck to their usual routine amongst the blood thirsty Miami media and fan speculation. Miami head coach Joe Philbin in an attempted quarterback motivating move, (by not naming his starting quarterback for the week four match up) fueled the jumping to conclusions paparazzi like mob.
No-Matter!
What does matter! Is that Ryan Tannehill's liver felt the force of Joe Philbins foot to his backside, and responded by leading his team from behind with THIRTY EIGHT UNANSWERED Miami Dolphin points.
Oakland took the opening kickoff and drove 74 yards for an early 7 - 0 lead, and didn't score again until a touchdown in garbage time.
The Dolphins responded with a field goal to the Raiders opening touchdown and trailed 7 - 3. At this point, Ryan Tannehill proceeded to complete FOURTEEN successive attempts on three Miami Dolphin first half touchdown drives.
Miami executed scores on four of their six first half possessions for a 24 to 7 halftime lead. The two possessions that they didn't score on were due to a fumbled punt return in Oakland territory, and a purposeful first half ending kneel down.
In facing a 7 - 3 deficit. The Dolphins marched 91 yards that ended in a Mike Wallace TOUCHDOWN on their second possession. Wallace took the screen pass at the 15 yard line, uncharacteristically powered through two defenders at the five yard line, and another at the two for the score in Charles Clay type fashion. Ryan Tannehill went 6 for 6 for 86 yards of the ninety one that led to a 10 - 7 Miami lead.
On the Dolphins following drive of 63 yards. Tannehill went 3 for 3 and Miami scored in an aggressive manor from 8 yards out on a Lamar Miller 4th & one TOUCHDOWN play. Fins 17 Raiders 7.
After a Miami fumbled punt return possession on Oakland's side of the field, and another defensive stop/Raider punt. The Dolphins marched 90 yards on 9 plays for a 24 - 7 scoreboard advantage. Ryan went 5 for 5 and capped the drive with his fourteenth consecutive completion which was an absolutely beautiful TOUCHDOWN pass and catch of eighteen yards to backup tight end Dion Sims.
Miami took a knee on their final first half possession and went to the tunnel ahead by 17 points.
Ryan Tanne-THRILL was 17 of 19 for 204 passing yards and two touchdowns with 18 additional yards coming by way of his legs in only the first half of play.
The Dolphins took the second half kickoff, and Ryan's second down attempt of a 15th consecutive completion was dropped. No-Matter. On the next 3rd and 12 play he converted a pass of fourteen yards to Brian Hartline for "another Miami Dolphins first down". He drove HIS TEAM seventy yards down to the opponents two yard line before a Lamar Miller fumble at the goal line.
Oakland took the ball at their own 20, and NOW it was the Miami Dolphins defenses turn. On a Courtland Finnegan blitz that forced an errant throw, Brent Grimes intercepted the ball at the Raiders 35 and returned it to Oakland's three yard line. Two plays later Lamar Miller neutralized his own previous fumble with his second TOUCHDOWN of the day for a Dolphin lead of 31 - 7.
Upon the Raiders next attempt, a bad snap blew by the quarterbacks head and was swooped up by Courtland Finnegan who walked 50 yards for another Miami Dolphins TOUCHDOWN to go up by a score of 38 - 7.
The Raiders next possession resulted in Miami's Jimmy Wilson returning an Oakland interception from his own 38 to the opponents 31, (the ball was placed on the 16 yard line after an Oakland personal foul penalty on the play). On the Dolphins first play Ryan Tannehill hit a short pass to Daniel Thomas who scored his first touchdown of the season and Miami's 45th point of the day, but it was reversed by a penalty. On another touchdown attempt during the same possession, Dion Sims had the ball bounce off his two forearms for a Raiders interception, Tannehills first and only of the day. Oakland went three and out.
Later down the long and winding road whilst trailing by a score of 38 - 7, Oakland scored a touchdown with 11:50 remaining in the 4th quarter to pull within the games 24 point spread finality.
The Miami Dolphins defense didn't have a 2014 interception prior to this game. Late in the 4th quarter Rookie corner back Walt Aikens added a team third interception to the day for the "Jolly Ole Chaps" of the American South East Football Franchise.
T'Was like night and day in comparison to Miami's previous contest. The Dolphins stuck to their routine while changing everything with brilliant play calling designed towards the proficiency of Ryan Tannehills strengths. Miami skill players (for the most part) executed to a tee, the special teams showed up, and the defense forced turnovers play after play, after play.
Miami totaled 435 yards, (Tanne-THRILL directly accounted for 313 via his arm and legs). The Dolphins accrued 278 yards through the air on 31 passes with Brian Hartline being tops for 74 yards on six catches. Miami had 157 on the ground off of 35 attempts with Lamar Miller leading the way on 12 carries for 64 yards and two touchdowns. The defense had two sacks and forced four turnovers (one for six points) whilst allowing 317 yards, (53 via the ground). The Dolphins punter Brandon Fields had just two attempts on the day.
To the joy (in one way or another) of all the attempting to be a distraction media, as well as all the faithful Dolphin fans far and wide. Backup Quarterback Matt Moore did indeed play on this day, (for the last eight minutes of the game) along with the rest of The Miami Dolphins much appreciated backups.
Head Coach Joe Philbin learned and understood that his ploy to motivate his young quarterback backfired to some extent by causing noise from the outside. In order to assure his team of such knowledge, he and his coaching staff relinquished their first class seats to the players on the flight from Miami to London! A CLASS MOVE and total team motivator!
Now (for at least two weeks through the Fins bye). The media saboteurs and Dolphin doubters must fall on their sword and attempt to LEARN TO APPRECIATE that The Miami Dolphins are quickly LEARNING from their previous mistakes!
THANK YOU for an Open-Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view !!
YEEEEEEE HAAAAAAAA, GIGGGGITTTTY, WOOOOOO HOOOOOO MIAMI DOLPHINS !!
Cheery-Ohhh, GOFINS !!
No-Matter!
What does matter! Is that Ryan Tannehill's liver felt the force of Joe Philbins foot to his backside, and responded by leading his team from behind with THIRTY EIGHT UNANSWERED Miami Dolphin points.
Oakland took the opening kickoff and drove 74 yards for an early 7 - 0 lead, and didn't score again until a touchdown in garbage time.
The Dolphins responded with a field goal to the Raiders opening touchdown and trailed 7 - 3. At this point, Ryan Tannehill proceeded to complete FOURTEEN successive attempts on three Miami Dolphin first half touchdown drives.
Miami executed scores on four of their six first half possessions for a 24 to 7 halftime lead. The two possessions that they didn't score on were due to a fumbled punt return in Oakland territory, and a purposeful first half ending kneel down.
In facing a 7 - 3 deficit. The Dolphins marched 91 yards that ended in a Mike Wallace TOUCHDOWN on their second possession. Wallace took the screen pass at the 15 yard line, uncharacteristically powered through two defenders at the five yard line, and another at the two for the score in Charles Clay type fashion. Ryan Tannehill went 6 for 6 for 86 yards of the ninety one that led to a 10 - 7 Miami lead.
On the Dolphins following drive of 63 yards. Tannehill went 3 for 3 and Miami scored in an aggressive manor from 8 yards out on a Lamar Miller 4th & one TOUCHDOWN play. Fins 17 Raiders 7.
After a Miami fumbled punt return possession on Oakland's side of the field, and another defensive stop/Raider punt. The Dolphins marched 90 yards on 9 plays for a 24 - 7 scoreboard advantage. Ryan went 5 for 5 and capped the drive with his fourteenth consecutive completion which was an absolutely beautiful TOUCHDOWN pass and catch of eighteen yards to backup tight end Dion Sims.
Miami took a knee on their final first half possession and went to the tunnel ahead by 17 points.
Ryan Tanne-THRILL was 17 of 19 for 204 passing yards and two touchdowns with 18 additional yards coming by way of his legs in only the first half of play.
The Dolphins took the second half kickoff, and Ryan's second down attempt of a 15th consecutive completion was dropped. No-Matter. On the next 3rd and 12 play he converted a pass of fourteen yards to Brian Hartline for "another Miami Dolphins first down". He drove HIS TEAM seventy yards down to the opponents two yard line before a Lamar Miller fumble at the goal line.
Oakland took the ball at their own 20, and NOW it was the Miami Dolphins defenses turn. On a Courtland Finnegan blitz that forced an errant throw, Brent Grimes intercepted the ball at the Raiders 35 and returned it to Oakland's three yard line. Two plays later Lamar Miller neutralized his own previous fumble with his second TOUCHDOWN of the day for a Dolphin lead of 31 - 7.
Upon the Raiders next attempt, a bad snap blew by the quarterbacks head and was swooped up by Courtland Finnegan who walked 50 yards for another Miami Dolphins TOUCHDOWN to go up by a score of 38 - 7.
The Raiders next possession resulted in Miami's Jimmy Wilson returning an Oakland interception from his own 38 to the opponents 31, (the ball was placed on the 16 yard line after an Oakland personal foul penalty on the play). On the Dolphins first play Ryan Tannehill hit a short pass to Daniel Thomas who scored his first touchdown of the season and Miami's 45th point of the day, but it was reversed by a penalty. On another touchdown attempt during the same possession, Dion Sims had the ball bounce off his two forearms for a Raiders interception, Tannehills first and only of the day. Oakland went three and out.
Later down the long and winding road whilst trailing by a score of 38 - 7, Oakland scored a touchdown with 11:50 remaining in the 4th quarter to pull within the games 24 point spread finality.
The Miami Dolphins defense didn't have a 2014 interception prior to this game. Late in the 4th quarter Rookie corner back Walt Aikens added a team third interception to the day for the "Jolly Ole Chaps" of the American South East Football Franchise.
T'Was like night and day in comparison to Miami's previous contest. The Dolphins stuck to their routine while changing everything with brilliant play calling designed towards the proficiency of Ryan Tannehills strengths. Miami skill players (for the most part) executed to a tee, the special teams showed up, and the defense forced turnovers play after play, after play.
Miami totaled 435 yards, (Tanne-THRILL directly accounted for 313 via his arm and legs). The Dolphins accrued 278 yards through the air on 31 passes with Brian Hartline being tops for 74 yards on six catches. Miami had 157 on the ground off of 35 attempts with Lamar Miller leading the way on 12 carries for 64 yards and two touchdowns. The defense had two sacks and forced four turnovers (one for six points) whilst allowing 317 yards, (53 via the ground). The Dolphins punter Brandon Fields had just two attempts on the day.
To the joy (in one way or another) of all the attempting to be a distraction media, as well as all the faithful Dolphin fans far and wide. Backup Quarterback Matt Moore did indeed play on this day, (for the last eight minutes of the game) along with the rest of The Miami Dolphins much appreciated backups.
Head Coach Joe Philbin learned and understood that his ploy to motivate his young quarterback backfired to some extent by causing noise from the outside. In order to assure his team of such knowledge, he and his coaching staff relinquished their first class seats to the players on the flight from Miami to London! A CLASS MOVE and total team motivator!
Now (for at least two weeks through the Fins bye). The media saboteurs and Dolphin doubters must fall on their sword and attempt to LEARN TO APPRECIATE that The Miami Dolphins are quickly LEARNING from their previous mistakes!
THANK YOU for an Open-Minded Read, and we look forward to your angle of view !!
YEEEEEEE HAAAAAAAA, GIGGGGITTTTY, WOOOOOO HOOOOOO MIAMI DOLPHINS !!
Cheery-Ohhh, GOFINS !!
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