Not since 2008 have the Dolphins won four consecutive games. After three successive home victories versus the AFC's Pittsburgh, Buffalo, and Jets.
Miami traveled west to face-off with yet another AFC rival San Diego and their elite quarterback Phillip Rivers. Interceptions by Tony Lippett (2), Byron Maxwell, and a Kiko Alonso 60 yard pik-six game clincher in the 59th minute stole victory from the arms of a tie and/or defeat for Miami's first road win of the season 31 - 24.
Ryan Tannehill threw for two touchdowns with zero turnovers on 17 of 24 for 240 yards. Though he made many an elite play throughout the day. Jay Ajayi had 19 attempts for 79 yards while Miami totaled just 106 rushing yards on 25 carries. The Chargers rushing game consisted of 24 Melvin Gordon attempts for 70 yards.
The Dolphins accrued 337 total yards to the Chargers 379, eleven penalties for 81 yards to the home teams 29 yards on four fouls, and Miami lost the time of possession battle 27:01 to 32:59. Miami won the game and the turnover battle 4 to 1 (Jakeem Grant muffed punt).
Miami started aggressive and tossed their way down to the Chargers thirty on their opening possession before getting conservative to the point of being pushed out of field goal range. They remained complacent until they found themselves trailing 0 - 10 halfway through the second quarter.
At this point (to cap off a 9 play 74 yard drive), Tannehill fired a 60 yard line drive from the 50 to the back of the endzone/endline that hit Kenny Stills at full stride running nortbound for a forty yard touchdown to pull within three points. The first half ended with a 7 - 10 scoreboard.
Miami opened the second half with a five play 75 yard drive in 2.5 minutes that ended with a one yard touchdown run from Damian Williams. The play previous to the touchdown was an elite play via Ryan Tannehill when rollin-out under duress he threw a 25 yard sideline strike to Jarvis Landry at the one. 14 - 10 Miami.
The Chargers immediately returned the favor and regained the lead with a 75 yard drive of their own. 14 - 17.
The Dolphins answered again with another 75 yard drive on the following possession. Tannehill saved this drive with his legs when from the San Diego 44 on third and twelve he was engulfed by a defender for a definitive sack but he somehow spit the hook and scrambled while weaving his way around and through the opposition for 18 yards and " another Miami Dolphins first down" at the 26. Two plays later he threw the perfect 18 yard lollipop to Damian Williams in the rear corner of the endzone. 21 - 17 Miami at third quarters end.
The Dolphin defense held on the Chargers opening 4th quarter possession but Jakeem Grant muffed the punt and San Diego recovered at Miami's five yard line. The D held for three plays but committed a penalty on the last giving the home team a fresh set of downs at the Dolphins two yard line. Two plays later Tony Lippett picked off Phillip Rivers in the endzone for the first of four Miami Dolphins fourth quarter interceptions.
The Chargers drove from their 12 to the Miami 30 on their next possession before Byron Maxwell at his own 14 gathered in a second Dolphins defensive interception.
With 5:06 remaining in the game the Chargers took their third fourth quarter possession 58 yards in one minute for a touchdown. Miami had them stopped on a three and out but guess what, a penalty negated punt formation. Two plays later a 49 yard touchdown gave San Diego a 21 - 24 lead.
Miami's Dolphins took one more minute to drive from their own 25 to the Chargers 9 for the game tying field goal. Needless to say, Tannehill (while being molested via a multitude of hands to the throat and helmet) was spectacular with a first down 56 yard strike to DeVante Parker while roughing the passer on the same play moved Miami 15 yards closer for the short field goal. 24 - 24.
2:57 remains and San Diego takes the ball from their 25 to the Miami 47 when on first and ten Kilo Alonso takes a Phillip Rivers pik-six, sixty yards To'Da'House! MIAMI DOLPHINS 31 - 24 !!
The home team had one game minute remaining from their own 25. Two plays later, the visitors Tony Lippett picks off Phillip Rivers for the fourth quarters fourth time!!!
IT'S NEVER OVER, TILL IT'S OVER!!
The Miami Dolphins are 5 - 4, (5 - 3 in conference), not out of range from New England, and on the heals of the wildcard 5th/6th seeds!!
YEEEE-HAAAA, GIGGITTYY, GOFINS!!!
Showing posts with label San Diego Chargers. Show all posts
Showing posts with label San Diego Chargers. Show all posts
Miami Dolphins 2016 Schedule (Recap)
The 2016 regular season schedule was released back in mid April, so now that the season is actually upon us. Here is the Miami Dolphins schedule recap.
Though Miami didn't host their third home game at it's own venue until week eleven during the season of 2015. For a first historic such stretch in both home stand instances. The Dolphins in 2016 will sleep in their own beds for the entirety of October between September 30th through November 10th which includes weeks five, six, seven, eight/bye, and nine of 2016's season at Miami's newly named/refurbished Hard Rock Stadium.
The Dolphins will reside in Southern California upon week ten through eleven as they are hosted by the San Diego Chargers and Los Angeles Rams on successive weeks.
Otherwise, though parts of the schedule appear to be quite favorably manageable. Three of their first four games are on the road at high caliber 2011 - 2015 playoff teams. Miami opens the season with a week one visit to the NFL's loudest venue in Seattle, they follow that up as the homecoming opponent of the bitter rival Patriots while the third road trip comes on a short week Thursday Night Game at Cincinnati on week four.
They have a second such stretch with three out four games being on the road during weeks ten, eleven, thirteen (and/or depending on how one segregates it), on weeks thirteen, fifteen, and sixteen. Either way, five of their last eight games are away from home.
The Dolphins start and finish to the 2016 season will be quite the telling task as they start in the farthest possible NFL city from Miami at the Goliath Seattle, and follow that up at Arch Nemesis New England.
Maybe a good thing to get them both before they get warmed up?
Miami also closes-out the season with a trifecta against the AFC East with two of the three being Saturday games on the snow-covered road and/or tundra. For the second successive season the five consecutive years AFC Championship participant Patriots end the year at THE MIAMI DOLPHINS!!
Here it is, Miami Dolphins 2016 schedule.
ROAD (1) at Seattle Seahawks (Sept 11, 4:05 EST)
ROAD (2) at New England Patriots (Sept 18, 1:00)
HOME (3) Cleveland Browns (Sept 25, 1:00)
ROAD (4) at Cincinnati Bengals (Sept 29, 8:25, Prime-Time THURSDAY)
HOME (5) Tennessee Titans (Oct 9, 1:00)
HOME (6) Pittsburgh Steelers (Oct 16, 1:00)
HOME (7) Buffalo Bills (Oct 23, 1:00)
BYE (8)
HOME (9) New York Jets (Nov 6, 1:00)
ROAD (10) at San Diego Chargers (Nov 13, 4:05)
ROAD (11) at Los Angeles Rams (Nov 20, 4:05)
HOME (12) San Francisco 49'ers (Nov 27, 1:00)
ROAD (13) at Baltimore Ravens (Dec 4, 1:00)
HOME (14) Arizona Cardinals (Dec 11, 1:00)
ROAD (15) at New York Jets (Dec 17, 8:25, Prime-Time SATURDAY)
ROAD (16) at Buffalo Bills (Dec 24, 1:00, SATURDAY)
HOME (17) New England Patriots (Jan 1 2017, 1:00)
Thanks to this previous match-up last season,
The Miami Dolphins are 1 - 0 in 2016 ; )) .
What'Cha'Think' ??
GOFINS!!!
Though Miami didn't host their third home game at it's own venue until week eleven during the season of 2015. For a first historic such stretch in both home stand instances. The Dolphins in 2016 will sleep in their own beds for the entirety of October between September 30th through November 10th which includes weeks five, six, seven, eight/bye, and nine of 2016's season at Miami's newly named/refurbished Hard Rock Stadium.
The Dolphins will reside in Southern California upon week ten through eleven as they are hosted by the San Diego Chargers and Los Angeles Rams on successive weeks.
Otherwise, though parts of the schedule appear to be quite favorably manageable. Three of their first four games are on the road at high caliber 2011 - 2015 playoff teams. Miami opens the season with a week one visit to the NFL's loudest venue in Seattle, they follow that up as the homecoming opponent of the bitter rival Patriots while the third road trip comes on a short week Thursday Night Game at Cincinnati on week four.
They have a second such stretch with three out four games being on the road during weeks ten, eleven, thirteen (and/or depending on how one segregates it), on weeks thirteen, fifteen, and sixteen. Either way, five of their last eight games are away from home.
The Dolphins start and finish to the 2016 season will be quite the telling task as they start in the farthest possible NFL city from Miami at the Goliath Seattle, and follow that up at Arch Nemesis New England.
Maybe a good thing to get them both before they get warmed up?
Miami also closes-out the season with a trifecta against the AFC East with two of the three being Saturday games on the snow-covered road and/or tundra. For the second successive season the five consecutive years AFC Championship participant Patriots end the year at THE MIAMI DOLPHINS!!
Here it is, Miami Dolphins 2016 schedule.
ROAD (1) at Seattle Seahawks (Sept 11, 4:05 EST)
ROAD (2) at New England Patriots (Sept 18, 1:00)
HOME (3) Cleveland Browns (Sept 25, 1:00)
ROAD (4) at Cincinnati Bengals (Sept 29, 8:25, Prime-Time THURSDAY)
HOME (5) Tennessee Titans (Oct 9, 1:00)
HOME (6) Pittsburgh Steelers (Oct 16, 1:00)
HOME (7) Buffalo Bills (Oct 23, 1:00)
BYE (8)
HOME (9) New York Jets (Nov 6, 1:00)
ROAD (10) at San Diego Chargers (Nov 13, 4:05)
ROAD (11) at Los Angeles Rams (Nov 20, 4:05)
HOME (12) San Francisco 49'ers (Nov 27, 1:00)
ROAD (13) at Baltimore Ravens (Dec 4, 1:00)
HOME (14) Arizona Cardinals (Dec 11, 1:00)
ROAD (15) at New York Jets (Dec 17, 8:25, Prime-Time SATURDAY)
ROAD (16) at Buffalo Bills (Dec 24, 1:00, SATURDAY)
HOME (17) New England Patriots (Jan 1 2017, 1:00)
Thanks to this previous match-up last season,
The Miami Dolphins are 1 - 0 in 2016 ; )) .
What'Cha'Think' ??
And So The Ball Bounces For The 2015 Miami Dolphins
In the year 1967 a second year Miami Dolphins expansion team defense allowed 31 touchdown passes in a fourteen game season. The 2015 Miami Dolphins defense matched that 48 year old low mark in fourteen games this season, and with two games remaining they will inevitably become the worst pass defense in franchise history.
The Dolphins traveled to San Diego for their fourteenth game of the season as an uninvited guest to a Chargers fair-well party. San Diego's Chargers have resided there since 1961 and are now the leading candidate to move to Los Angeles for the 2016 season. This was quite possibly the last game that they'll ever play for their home town fans as their two remaining games are on the road, and they came to play for those that have supported them for 54 years.
They hadn't scored a touchdown in 22 offensive possessions and/or three weeks. Enter the Miami Dolphins. San Diego scores on their first 12 play possession of 86 yards with a twenty yard pass to the mini-me-esqe Danny Woodhead. They managed a field goal on their fourth possession. They had tabulated zero rushing touchdowns since week one until their 5th possession against Miami when Danny Woodhead scored from two yards out. Their team hadn't rushed for over 100 yards in eleven weeks until the 140 against the Dolphins. On their sixth possession Danny Woodhead struck again with a touchdown reception from 9 yards out for a 23 - Zipp halftime lead. Woodhead wasn't done as Miami's Dolphins allowed him a third touchdown reception in the second half to go along with his second quarter rush for 6 points.
On the Chargers third possession with a 6 - 0 lead 27 seconds into the second quarter the Dolphins defense actually made a play that a typical 2015 Miami bounce upended. San Diego ball at their own 41, 2nd down and eight to go. Phillip Rivers heaves a 52 yard bomb that the Dolphins tip-drilled into the hands of Rashad Jones for an interception at the Miami 7 yard line. Jones returns the ball 49 yards and fumbles into the hands of the quarterback who hasn't moved since releasing the ball. A Dolphin interception and return of 49 yards turns into a three yard gain and a first down for San Diego of which they managed the previously mentioned field goal. Time and again, that's just the way that the balls have bounced for the 2015 Miami Dolphins!
Miami's offense was no better as they ran just 31 plays on their first eight possessions that resulted in 7 punts and the end of the first half. The Dolphins just this week had released reserve offensive lineman Jeff Linkenbach who knows all of the Miami offensive signals as well as formations, and the Chargers picked him up. One would think that Linkenbach called all the Charger defensive plays because they somehow managed to have the right guy in the right place in every Dolphin offensive instance. But then again. That's just how the balls have bounced for the 2015 Miami Dolphins!
The visitors entered the game with just seven active offensive lineman, and Dolphin Left Tackle Brandon Albert left the game (never to return) due to injury in the first quarter. The Dolphin guards were pressed into the tackle positions, got eaten alive, and Miami didn't score until they were inside the last two minutes of the third quarter when rookie running back Jay Ajayi scored his first NFL touchdown from 12 yards out. Miami Center Mike Pouncey left the game due to injury during that 3rd quarter Jay Ajayi touchdown drive. The Dolphins managed just their second score of the day inside the last two minutes of the game with a Ryan Tannehill one yard touchdown run as the final score ended up being 30 - 14 for the home team.
With a Detroit Lions Monday Night win. The Dolphins will move up into the 7th overall pick of the 2016 draft while they are within one game of a potential third overall pick, and two games within a potential first overall pick. The Dolphins will be going to all lengths in listening for potential draftee options.
In a whisper. Psst, Pssst, hey Dolphin can you hear me? Pssst, there's always next year!
So left tackle Brandon Albert missed 99% of the seasons first four games, and it took him a few weeks to get up to speed. At just about that same mid-season point right tackle Ju'Waun James went down and has yet to return. So in truth. The Dolphins haven't had their true starting offensive line on the field together but for just a few games of what is a 16 game season, and their offensive line depth is absolutely atrocious!
Albert is injured yet again, to what extent is not known but something drastic has to take place in order to fix this offensive line atrocity. Albert is scheduled to receive 10 plus million dollars for his 2016 services, and Miami has a minimal amount of cap space presently available towards next season. Depending on the severity of his most recent injury! Perhaps it's time to cut ties with the often injured reason for offensive line shuffling, non-cohesion, and ineptitude?
If they are to go offensive line with the first pick? It's gotta be Notre Dames Jr. tackle Ronnie Stanley who could instantly start at left tackle (minus Albert), or at left guard until Albert is truly done. He'd be a great pick for those who have zero faith in Dallas Thomas at guard because Stanley could play guard until Albert is done, and D. Thomas as well as rookie guard Jamil Douglas (who like Thomas couldn't play tackle if his life depended on it) would instantly become two with some sort of viable guard depth.
There are other early first round tackle options, but the guy ranked ahead of Stanley (Jr. Laremy Tunsel of Ole-Miss) has an injury history that most wouldn't want to hear the fans scream about, and the third likely option (Sr. Taylor Decker of Ohio St) is extremely tall and has trouble getting under the defender but is very good otherwise.
There are a couple really good linebacker options to be had with the first round, top ten pick, and Notre Dames outside linebacker Jaylon Smith is the only one to fiercely pursue as he's the most ready for the NFL! Another OLB Myles Jack of UCLA is also very special but as a Dolphin fan who's seen too many injured draft picks come our way, he is to be avoided because he's recovering from November meniscus surgery. Alabama's ILB Reggie Ragland could potentially be a first pick option for Miami, but he's not quite as special as Bama's previous first round inside linebacker CJ Mosley.
Seeing that the 2015 Miami defense will have allowed the most touchdown passes in franchise history! There are two corner backs among others that the Dolphins could surely use with their first pick in Vernon Hargreaves the third of Florida, and Jalen Ramsey out of Florida State. Meanwhile. At this present moment, Brent Grimes 2016 services will cost 9.5 million smacks in the face! As will tight end Jordan Cameron!
And of course (minus the dismissal of Brandon Albert) and/or the absolute need of a starting left tackle. The conchs absolute first choice (if available at the Dolphins pick however unlikely that is) would be Ohio States defensive end and pass rusher extraordinaire Joey Bosa who without missing a beat would be the immediate replacement of Cam Wake!
Cam Wake will be 34 come January and nearing 35 by the time he's able (if ever) to return from an torn achilles injury which will surely minimize his explosion abilities. He (like Brandon Albert) is fading into obscurity, aging quickly, often injured, and scheduled to be paid 10 million 2016 dollars for his services of which Wake's won't be available until late next season.
If Free Agent Olivier Vernon gets away? And perhaps even if he doesn't.
Miami has to do whatever in the world it takes to land Joey Bosa!
Bosa AND Vernon together (for the next decade) would be as good as o15 was supposed to be at rushing the quarterback while minimizing the possibility of breaking (in back to back seasons) the franchise record of touchdown passes allowed! Defensive Ends Quinton Coples and Dion Jordan are contracted to 7.75 and 6.2 million for 2016.
Miami should cut both Albert and Wake (if not the whole lot'of'em) in order to open up at least 20 plus million of cap space, but they can't feasibly cut both and leave themselves in dire need of both a first round left tackle and a trouble making to the oppositions quarterback defensive end! The Dolphins need multiple bodies of legitimate depth at offensive line (if Albert is kept), starters if he isn't. They're corner back play has been extremely questionable if not totally absent. They could use a stud first round linebacker, while with the current predicament of Cam Wake and free agent status of Olivier Vernon they absolutely need Joey Bosa! At quarterback despite what some might think about Ryan Tannehill, he is by far the last and/or least of their immediate concerns!
What are the Miami Dolphins to do?
Trade their first round pick for an experienced head coach?
Don't put it past owner Stephen Ross!
That's just how the balls have bounced for the 2015 Miami Dolphins!!
Thanks for your time, and as always we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!
GOFINS???
MERRY CHRISTMAS, and/or HAPPY HOLIDAY'S TO ALL !!!
The Dolphins traveled to San Diego for their fourteenth game of the season as an uninvited guest to a Chargers fair-well party. San Diego's Chargers have resided there since 1961 and are now the leading candidate to move to Los Angeles for the 2016 season. This was quite possibly the last game that they'll ever play for their home town fans as their two remaining games are on the road, and they came to play for those that have supported them for 54 years.
They hadn't scored a touchdown in 22 offensive possessions and/or three weeks. Enter the Miami Dolphins. San Diego scores on their first 12 play possession of 86 yards with a twenty yard pass to the mini-me-esqe Danny Woodhead. They managed a field goal on their fourth possession. They had tabulated zero rushing touchdowns since week one until their 5th possession against Miami when Danny Woodhead scored from two yards out. Their team hadn't rushed for over 100 yards in eleven weeks until the 140 against the Dolphins. On their sixth possession Danny Woodhead struck again with a touchdown reception from 9 yards out for a 23 - Zipp halftime lead. Woodhead wasn't done as Miami's Dolphins allowed him a third touchdown reception in the second half to go along with his second quarter rush for 6 points.
On the Chargers third possession with a 6 - 0 lead 27 seconds into the second quarter the Dolphins defense actually made a play that a typical 2015 Miami bounce upended. San Diego ball at their own 41, 2nd down and eight to go. Phillip Rivers heaves a 52 yard bomb that the Dolphins tip-drilled into the hands of Rashad Jones for an interception at the Miami 7 yard line. Jones returns the ball 49 yards and fumbles into the hands of the quarterback who hasn't moved since releasing the ball. A Dolphin interception and return of 49 yards turns into a three yard gain and a first down for San Diego of which they managed the previously mentioned field goal. Time and again, that's just the way that the balls have bounced for the 2015 Miami Dolphins!
Miami's offense was no better as they ran just 31 plays on their first eight possessions that resulted in 7 punts and the end of the first half. The Dolphins just this week had released reserve offensive lineman Jeff Linkenbach who knows all of the Miami offensive signals as well as formations, and the Chargers picked him up. One would think that Linkenbach called all the Charger defensive plays because they somehow managed to have the right guy in the right place in every Dolphin offensive instance. But then again. That's just how the balls have bounced for the 2015 Miami Dolphins!
The visitors entered the game with just seven active offensive lineman, and Dolphin Left Tackle Brandon Albert left the game (never to return) due to injury in the first quarter. The Dolphin guards were pressed into the tackle positions, got eaten alive, and Miami didn't score until they were inside the last two minutes of the third quarter when rookie running back Jay Ajayi scored his first NFL touchdown from 12 yards out. Miami Center Mike Pouncey left the game due to injury during that 3rd quarter Jay Ajayi touchdown drive. The Dolphins managed just their second score of the day inside the last two minutes of the game with a Ryan Tannehill one yard touchdown run as the final score ended up being 30 - 14 for the home team.
With a Detroit Lions Monday Night win. The Dolphins will move up into the 7th overall pick of the 2016 draft while they are within one game of a potential third overall pick, and two games within a potential first overall pick. The Dolphins will be going to all lengths in listening for potential draftee options.
So left tackle Brandon Albert missed 99% of the seasons first four games, and it took him a few weeks to get up to speed. At just about that same mid-season point right tackle Ju'Waun James went down and has yet to return. So in truth. The Dolphins haven't had their true starting offensive line on the field together but for just a few games of what is a 16 game season, and their offensive line depth is absolutely atrocious!
Albert is injured yet again, to what extent is not known but something drastic has to take place in order to fix this offensive line atrocity. Albert is scheduled to receive 10 plus million dollars for his 2016 services, and Miami has a minimal amount of cap space presently available towards next season. Depending on the severity of his most recent injury! Perhaps it's time to cut ties with the often injured reason for offensive line shuffling, non-cohesion, and ineptitude?
If they are to go offensive line with the first pick? It's gotta be Notre Dames Jr. tackle Ronnie Stanley who could instantly start at left tackle (minus Albert), or at left guard until Albert is truly done. He'd be a great pick for those who have zero faith in Dallas Thomas at guard because Stanley could play guard until Albert is done, and D. Thomas as well as rookie guard Jamil Douglas (who like Thomas couldn't play tackle if his life depended on it) would instantly become two with some sort of viable guard depth.
There are other early first round tackle options, but the guy ranked ahead of Stanley (Jr. Laremy Tunsel of Ole-Miss) has an injury history that most wouldn't want to hear the fans scream about, and the third likely option (Sr. Taylor Decker of Ohio St) is extremely tall and has trouble getting under the defender but is very good otherwise.
There are a couple really good linebacker options to be had with the first round, top ten pick, and Notre Dames outside linebacker Jaylon Smith is the only one to fiercely pursue as he's the most ready for the NFL! Another OLB Myles Jack of UCLA is also very special but as a Dolphin fan who's seen too many injured draft picks come our way, he is to be avoided because he's recovering from November meniscus surgery. Alabama's ILB Reggie Ragland could potentially be a first pick option for Miami, but he's not quite as special as Bama's previous first round inside linebacker CJ Mosley.
Seeing that the 2015 Miami defense will have allowed the most touchdown passes in franchise history! There are two corner backs among others that the Dolphins could surely use with their first pick in Vernon Hargreaves the third of Florida, and Jalen Ramsey out of Florida State. Meanwhile. At this present moment, Brent Grimes 2016 services will cost 9.5 million smacks in the face! As will tight end Jordan Cameron!
And of course (minus the dismissal of Brandon Albert) and/or the absolute need of a starting left tackle. The conchs absolute first choice (if available at the Dolphins pick however unlikely that is) would be Ohio States defensive end and pass rusher extraordinaire Joey Bosa who without missing a beat would be the immediate replacement of Cam Wake!
Cam Wake will be 34 come January and nearing 35 by the time he's able (if ever) to return from an torn achilles injury which will surely minimize his explosion abilities. He (like Brandon Albert) is fading into obscurity, aging quickly, often injured, and scheduled to be paid 10 million 2016 dollars for his services of which Wake's won't be available until late next season.
If Free Agent Olivier Vernon gets away? And perhaps even if he doesn't.
Miami has to do whatever in the world it takes to land Joey Bosa!
Bosa AND Vernon together (for the next decade) would be as good as o15 was supposed to be at rushing the quarterback while minimizing the possibility of breaking (in back to back seasons) the franchise record of touchdown passes allowed! Defensive Ends Quinton Coples and Dion Jordan are contracted to 7.75 and 6.2 million for 2016.
Miami should cut both Albert and Wake (if not the whole lot'of'em) in order to open up at least 20 plus million of cap space, but they can't feasibly cut both and leave themselves in dire need of both a first round left tackle and a trouble making to the oppositions quarterback defensive end! The Dolphins need multiple bodies of legitimate depth at offensive line (if Albert is kept), starters if he isn't. They're corner back play has been extremely questionable if not totally absent. They could use a stud first round linebacker, while with the current predicament of Cam Wake and free agent status of Olivier Vernon they absolutely need Joey Bosa! At quarterback despite what some might think about Ryan Tannehill, he is by far the last and/or least of their immediate concerns!
What are the Miami Dolphins to do?
Trade their first round pick for an experienced head coach?
Don't put it past owner Stephen Ross!
That's just how the balls have bounced for the 2015 Miami Dolphins!!
Thanks for your time, and as always we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!
GOFINS???
MERRY CHRISTMAS, and/or HAPPY HOLIDAY'S TO ALL !!!
Miami Dolphins 2015 Schedule
Today's National Football League and the Miami Dolphins kickoff their fiftieth seasons in less than a fortnight. The leagues schedule makers has the Dolphins starting off innocently enough with a two game road stint at teams with a combined 2014 record of 7 - 25. However. They also have Miami playing Seven of their first Nine games away from the affectionately referred to Joe Robbie Stadium and/or Sun Life Stadium.
1)At Washington Redskins (4 - 12), Sunday September 13th, 1 pm EST.
2)At Jacksonville Jaguars (3 - 13), Sunday September 20th, 4 pm.
Miami's first home game opponent is an inner-division rival that's had the Dolphins number of late.
3)Versus Buffalo Bills (9 - 7), Sunday September 27th, 4:25 pm.
The Dolphins follow that inner-division home game with another home game that takes place in London which happens to be located 1,000 miles further from Miami than from where a second inner-division rival resides.
4)Versus New York Jets (4 - 12), Sunday October 4th, (London) 9:30 AM EST.
A Bye takes place after the seasons longest road trip for a home game.
5) Bye
Following what totals out to be a two way airplane excursion of nine thousand miles for a home game and the Bye week, the Dolphins are again in flight toward an AFC opponent.
6)At Tennessee Titans (2 - 14), Sunday October 18th, 1 pm.
Through the seasons first five games the Miami Dolphins have been in the air on eight occasions, and have faced teams with a combined 2014 record of 22 - 58. It's safe to say that despite all of the frequent flier miles gathered thus-far, the Dolphins had better be swimming with the current from the get go because beyond this point of the season is when the real turbulence begins.
Miami's Dolphins come home for what is just their second game of the season at JRS! They will be taking on a team that they have never beaten in seven tries with three of those attempts taking place at JRS.
7)Versus Houston Texans (9 - 7), Sunday October 25th, 1 pm.
Ohhh-Well, after a much deserved second game on their own turf out of six total games. The Miami Dolphins now get to go on a ruthless three game road trip at teams that tabulated a combined 31 - 17 record in 2014. They start out this particular stint on a Thursday Night with only three days rest at a most feared inner-division rival. Miami then follows that up with another road trip to a potentially snow bound inner-division menace which precedes a third straight road game at the frigid tundra of an NFC East power house!
8)At New England (12 - 4), Thursday October 29th, 8:25 pm.
9)At Buffalo Bills (9 - 7), Sunday November 8th, 1 pm.
10)At Philadelphia Eagles (10 - 6), Sunday November 15th, 1 pm.
Wheeww, what a stretch, and now they have an opportunity to host just their third game of the season at JRS, and they get the NFC Eastern Division Champs.
11)Versus Dallas Cowboys (12 - 4), Sunday November 22nd, 1 pm.
Got that home cook'in out of the way, might as well go tug on a snow covered inner-division thorn.
12)At New York Jets (4 - 12), Sunday November 29th, 1 pm.
So, Miami's Dolphins may or may not have survived the seasons first eleven games of which only three were contended from their own familiar turf with a total of four being counted as home games.
With just five games remaining the Dolphins finally get a break (of sorts), and head home to host four of the seasons final five ever important, playoff pursuit match-ups.
"ALL-RIGHT MIAMI", Here We Go Dolphins, Here We Go!
To start off a two game home stand the Dolphins will host an AFC nemesis that holds a seven games to five head to head advantage while beating Miami in five consecutive meetings.
13)Versus Baltimore Ravens (10 - 6), Sunday December 6th, 1 pm.
A Monday Night Match-Up against an NFC East team follows as somewhat of a reprieve.
14)Versus New York Giants (6 - 10), Monday December 14th, 8:30 pm.
The season's second longest 500 MPH roller-coaster ride breaks up Miami's first stretch that included two consecutive home games at JRS! The Dolphins will be flying West to face off against an AFC contender that Miami beat (at JRS) 37 - ZIPPP in 2014.
15)At San Diego Chargers (9 - 7), Sunday December 20th, 4:25 pm.
Miami has two remaining games, and it is just their second two game home stand of the season. To top off a schedule that seemed "innocent enough" to begin with! The (potentially chasing playoffs) Miami Dolphins close the season hosting the AFC's two best quarterbacks and/or teams that participated in 2014's AFC Championship.
16)Versus Indianapolis Colts (11 - 5), Sunday December 27th, 1 pm.
17)Versus New England Patriots (12 - 4), Sunday January 3rd, 1 pm.
It's the perfect storm.
Excluding the AFC East (because Miami has road & home match-ups against) the Divisional opposition of Buffalo, New York, and New England. The 2015 road opponents outside of the division (Redskins, Jaguars, Titans, Eagles, and Chargers) had a combined 2014 record of 28 - 52. The Dolphins will need to win at least four of the above as well as one or more divisional road games.
Meanwhile, Miami's home games (outside of the division) are for the most part against serious playoff contenders in the (Texans, Cowboys, Ravens, Giants, and Colts) who had a 2014 accrued record of 48 - 32. Miami will greatly need the home field advantage in order to win the majority of the games at their own venue which ESPECIALLY includes the 25 - 23 AFC East (BILLS, JETS, AND PATRIOTS)!
It's the perfect storm.
Should The Miami Dolphins happen to make the playoffs?
They will already be playoff worthy,
and a serious force to be reckoned with no-matter the venue!
So.
Were the North-Eastern Based National Football Leagues schedule makers fair to their Southern based Brethren? How do you think the battles amidst the war will play out?
Thank You for an Open-Minded read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!
GOFINS!!!
1)At Washington Redskins (4 - 12), Sunday September 13th, 1 pm EST.
2)At Jacksonville Jaguars (3 - 13), Sunday September 20th, 4 pm.
Miami's first home game opponent is an inner-division rival that's had the Dolphins number of late.
3)Versus Buffalo Bills (9 - 7), Sunday September 27th, 4:25 pm.
The Dolphins follow that inner-division home game with another home game that takes place in London which happens to be located 1,000 miles further from Miami than from where a second inner-division rival resides.
4)Versus New York Jets (4 - 12), Sunday October 4th, (London) 9:30 AM EST.
A Bye takes place after the seasons longest road trip for a home game.
5) Bye
Following what totals out to be a two way airplane excursion of nine thousand miles for a home game and the Bye week, the Dolphins are again in flight toward an AFC opponent.
6)At Tennessee Titans (2 - 14), Sunday October 18th, 1 pm.
Through the seasons first five games the Miami Dolphins have been in the air on eight occasions, and have faced teams with a combined 2014 record of 22 - 58. It's safe to say that despite all of the frequent flier miles gathered thus-far, the Dolphins had better be swimming with the current from the get go because beyond this point of the season is when the real turbulence begins.
Miami's Dolphins come home for what is just their second game of the season at JRS! They will be taking on a team that they have never beaten in seven tries with three of those attempts taking place at JRS.
7)Versus Houston Texans (9 - 7), Sunday October 25th, 1 pm.
Ohhh-Well, after a much deserved second game on their own turf out of six total games. The Miami Dolphins now get to go on a ruthless three game road trip at teams that tabulated a combined 31 - 17 record in 2014. They start out this particular stint on a Thursday Night with only three days rest at a most feared inner-division rival. Miami then follows that up with another road trip to a potentially snow bound inner-division menace which precedes a third straight road game at the frigid tundra of an NFC East power house!
8)At New England (12 - 4), Thursday October 29th, 8:25 pm.
9)At Buffalo Bills (9 - 7), Sunday November 8th, 1 pm.
10)At Philadelphia Eagles (10 - 6), Sunday November 15th, 1 pm.
Wheeww, what a stretch, and now they have an opportunity to host just their third game of the season at JRS, and they get the NFC Eastern Division Champs.
11)Versus Dallas Cowboys (12 - 4), Sunday November 22nd, 1 pm.
Got that home cook'in out of the way, might as well go tug on a snow covered inner-division thorn.
12)At New York Jets (4 - 12), Sunday November 29th, 1 pm.
So, Miami's Dolphins may or may not have survived the seasons first eleven games of which only three were contended from their own familiar turf with a total of four being counted as home games.
With just five games remaining the Dolphins finally get a break (of sorts), and head home to host four of the seasons final five ever important, playoff pursuit match-ups.
"ALL-RIGHT MIAMI", Here We Go Dolphins, Here We Go!
To start off a two game home stand the Dolphins will host an AFC nemesis that holds a seven games to five head to head advantage while beating Miami in five consecutive meetings.
13)Versus Baltimore Ravens (10 - 6), Sunday December 6th, 1 pm.
A Monday Night Match-Up against an NFC East team follows as somewhat of a reprieve.
14)Versus New York Giants (6 - 10), Monday December 14th, 8:30 pm.
The season's second longest 500 MPH roller-coaster ride breaks up Miami's first stretch that included two consecutive home games at JRS! The Dolphins will be flying West to face off against an AFC contender that Miami beat (at JRS) 37 - ZIPPP in 2014.
15)At San Diego Chargers (9 - 7), Sunday December 20th, 4:25 pm.
Miami has two remaining games, and it is just their second two game home stand of the season. To top off a schedule that seemed "innocent enough" to begin with! The (potentially chasing playoffs) Miami Dolphins close the season hosting the AFC's two best quarterbacks and/or teams that participated in 2014's AFC Championship.
16)Versus Indianapolis Colts (11 - 5), Sunday December 27th, 1 pm.
17)Versus New England Patriots (12 - 4), Sunday January 3rd, 1 pm.
It's the perfect storm.
Excluding the AFC East (because Miami has road & home match-ups against) the Divisional opposition of Buffalo, New York, and New England. The 2015 road opponents outside of the division (Redskins, Jaguars, Titans, Eagles, and Chargers) had a combined 2014 record of 28 - 52. The Dolphins will need to win at least four of the above as well as one or more divisional road games.
Meanwhile, Miami's home games (outside of the division) are for the most part against serious playoff contenders in the (Texans, Cowboys, Ravens, Giants, and Colts) who had a 2014 accrued record of 48 - 32. Miami will greatly need the home field advantage in order to win the majority of the games at their own venue which ESPECIALLY includes the 25 - 23 AFC East (BILLS, JETS, AND PATRIOTS)!
It's the perfect storm.
Should The Miami Dolphins happen to make the playoffs?
They will already be playoff worthy,
and a serious force to be reckoned with no-matter the venue!
So.
Were the North-Eastern Based National Football Leagues schedule makers fair to their Southern based Brethren? How do you think the battles amidst the war will play out?
Thank You for an Open-Minded read, and we look forward to your angle of view : )) !!
GOFINS!!!
The Miami Dolphin's Brutal November Begins
The month of November is critical for the Miami Dolphins in 2014. The Chargers, Lions, Bills and Broncos present a daunting list of opponents in succession. While the Dolphins have beaten teams with combined 10-21 record, they have lost to teams with a collective 14-9 record.
A brutal November schedule featuring teams a cumulative 22-9, will define the 2014 Dolphins. Teetering on the edge of .500 means, coming out of these games with their season intact will be the difference between playing in January or watching at home. Winning 2 of the next 4 games is imperative.
The danger for Miami is looking ahead and worrying about the broader picture instead of focusing on the job at hand, beating San Diego.
Chargers QB Philip Rivers has played the best opening stretch of his career, with a 109 QB rating, 20 TDs and just 5 INTs. After winning 5 in a row averaging 30+ points, SD and Rivers have slumped in two consecutive losses averaging barely 21. The Chargers will be looking to turn the trend around in Miami and the Dolphin defense must be prepared to harass the Pro Bowl QB.
Rivers was sacked only 4 times in losses while being taken down 9 times in winning efforts. He’s thrown 4 INTs in losses but only 1 in wins. 6 TD passes in losses and 14 in wins. Interestingly enough, the trend points to coverage as the key rather than blitzing.
SD could be little more than smoke and mirrors blustered by beating Jacksonville, NYJ and Oakland in succession prior to losing to KC and Denver.
The only defining win for the Chargers came in week two against a Seahawks team that does not seem quite as formidable as it did winning last year’s Super Bowl. Beneath the surface, the Chargers bark is nastier than its bite. In fact, these two teams are moving in opposite directions. It is up to the Dolphins to maintain a winning streak and keep San Diego from regaining momentum.
The Charger offense depends on quick passing to negate pass rushing defensive linemen. 173 of River’s attempts have come from a 3 wide set with a lone back, while only 94 come from other formations. A vast percentage of his attempts, (111) are passes thrown between 1 and 10 yards. The most telling statistic, all of Philip River’s passing attempts have come without motion by the offense.
It’s the Mike Sherman offense without forcing a vertical threat, a scheme the Dolphin defense practiced against for two seasons. If the Miami defense is capable of exerting pressure without blitzing while disguising multiple coverage schemes, Rivers will make mistakes. Dion Jordan may get his first real opportunity as he is tasked to cover perennial All Pro TE Antonio Gates.
While it’s doubtful the Miami defense will completely shut down a high-powered SD offense, scoring may not come easy for the Chargers.
The key to the game will be the fickle Miami offense.
Footballoutsiders.com ranks San Diego 27th in defense, but that does not necessarily mean Miami will have an advantage. The Dolphins maddening inconsistency, particularly in the opening half will set the stage for a big win, or a miserable loss. The team definitely flows with the ebb of QB Ryan Tannehill against good opponents. San Diego will score and Miami must keep pace.
When Tannehill rates over 90, the Dolphins are 14-1. The stat shows how advantageous a good game from the QB can be, especially in Miami. However, Tannehill has only been rated 90 or better twice in 2014 and the Dolphins have 4 victories. While the stat is compelling, Miami can win if Tannehill is off his game.
Tannehill seems to have progressed, but the stat Bill Lazor feels most important, yards per attempt (6.6) is slightly lower for Tannehill in 2014. Stats don’t seem to carry much weight for the Miami QB, whether he gets off to a good start makes all the difference.
Tannehill responds to contact.
If the pocket collapses and the Miami QB is sacked early, it usually leads to a slow start. Conversely, if the Miami QB is hit in the process of making a positive play, it usually results in a fast start. Unlike most QBs, Tannehill needs to play a physical game to get his adrenaline up, for good or bad.
Bill Lazor uses the read option to get Tannehill into the flow of the game, but like the Wildcat before it, defenses will quickly catch on. Lazor will need to be creative getting his QB outside the San Diego defense running the football early to start his motor running. Most Likely San Diego has some wrinkles designed for the read option.
This is a very winnable game for the Miami Dolphins. San Diego is certain to be stinging from two consecutive losses, after an easy early schedule. The Miami defense must take away the quick passing attack and force Rivers to select his second and third options. The Miami offense must come out of the gate ready to play, if that means Tannehill running like a fullback up the middle on the first two offensive plays, get him hit early.
Without taking San Diego lightly, Miami has the opportunity to start a grueling November with a win in a month where 2 & 2 could lead to a playoff berth.
A brutal November schedule featuring teams a cumulative 22-9, will define the 2014 Dolphins. Teetering on the edge of .500 means, coming out of these games with their season intact will be the difference between playing in January or watching at home. Winning 2 of the next 4 games is imperative.
The danger for Miami is looking ahead and worrying about the broader picture instead of focusing on the job at hand, beating San Diego.
Chargers QB Philip Rivers has played the best opening stretch of his career, with a 109 QB rating, 20 TDs and just 5 INTs. After winning 5 in a row averaging 30+ points, SD and Rivers have slumped in two consecutive losses averaging barely 21. The Chargers will be looking to turn the trend around in Miami and the Dolphin defense must be prepared to harass the Pro Bowl QB.
Rivers was sacked only 4 times in losses while being taken down 9 times in winning efforts. He’s thrown 4 INTs in losses but only 1 in wins. 6 TD passes in losses and 14 in wins. Interestingly enough, the trend points to coverage as the key rather than blitzing.
SD could be little more than smoke and mirrors blustered by beating Jacksonville, NYJ and Oakland in succession prior to losing to KC and Denver.
The only defining win for the Chargers came in week two against a Seahawks team that does not seem quite as formidable as it did winning last year’s Super Bowl. Beneath the surface, the Chargers bark is nastier than its bite. In fact, these two teams are moving in opposite directions. It is up to the Dolphins to maintain a winning streak and keep San Diego from regaining momentum.
The Charger offense depends on quick passing to negate pass rushing defensive linemen. 173 of River’s attempts have come from a 3 wide set with a lone back, while only 94 come from other formations. A vast percentage of his attempts, (111) are passes thrown between 1 and 10 yards. The most telling statistic, all of Philip River’s passing attempts have come without motion by the offense.
It’s the Mike Sherman offense without forcing a vertical threat, a scheme the Dolphin defense practiced against for two seasons. If the Miami defense is capable of exerting pressure without blitzing while disguising multiple coverage schemes, Rivers will make mistakes. Dion Jordan may get his first real opportunity as he is tasked to cover perennial All Pro TE Antonio Gates.
While it’s doubtful the Miami defense will completely shut down a high-powered SD offense, scoring may not come easy for the Chargers.
The key to the game will be the fickle Miami offense.
Footballoutsiders.com ranks San Diego 27th in defense, but that does not necessarily mean Miami will have an advantage. The Dolphins maddening inconsistency, particularly in the opening half will set the stage for a big win, or a miserable loss. The team definitely flows with the ebb of QB Ryan Tannehill against good opponents. San Diego will score and Miami must keep pace.
When Tannehill rates over 90, the Dolphins are 14-1. The stat shows how advantageous a good game from the QB can be, especially in Miami. However, Tannehill has only been rated 90 or better twice in 2014 and the Dolphins have 4 victories. While the stat is compelling, Miami can win if Tannehill is off his game.
Tannehill seems to have progressed, but the stat Bill Lazor feels most important, yards per attempt (6.6) is slightly lower for Tannehill in 2014. Stats don’t seem to carry much weight for the Miami QB, whether he gets off to a good start makes all the difference.
Tannehill responds to contact.
If the pocket collapses and the Miami QB is sacked early, it usually leads to a slow start. Conversely, if the Miami QB is hit in the process of making a positive play, it usually results in a fast start. Unlike most QBs, Tannehill needs to play a physical game to get his adrenaline up, for good or bad.
Bill Lazor uses the read option to get Tannehill into the flow of the game, but like the Wildcat before it, defenses will quickly catch on. Lazor will need to be creative getting his QB outside the San Diego defense running the football early to start his motor running. Most Likely San Diego has some wrinkles designed for the read option.
This is a very winnable game for the Miami Dolphins. San Diego is certain to be stinging from two consecutive losses, after an easy early schedule. The Miami defense must take away the quick passing attack and force Rivers to select his second and third options. The Miami offense must come out of the gate ready to play, if that means Tannehill running like a fullback up the middle on the first two offensive plays, get him hit early.
Without taking San Diego lightly, Miami has the opportunity to start a grueling November with a win in a month where 2 & 2 could lead to a playoff berth.
A Look At The Miami Dolphins Kevin Burnett
Ok, so it has been said a number of times that the Miami Dolphins have done next to nothing during the free agency period, and I, like others, am very disappointed. Maybe one thing they have done right is to bring in Kevin Burnett from the Chargers.
Now, I was not very happy to see them let Crowder go, but Burnett does have some decent numbers. Last year, he had 80 tackles, 6 sacks, and 2 interceptions. Crowder was averaging close to 60 tackles per season, and had 2.5 sacks and 1 interception last year. I would think that we have upgraded at that position with this move, even though a lot of it had to do with Ireland's personal relationship with Burnett from the Cowboys. I guess we just have to grasp at what we can, and hope that Paul is right about the Orton deal. Maybe, just maybe, that will come to fruition.
Maybe one day the Miami Dolphins will have a quarter back that we can get excited about. Until then, we can just lust for the day that we have a new coach and GM.
Any thoughts? Thanks for reading.
Now, I was not very happy to see them let Crowder go, but Burnett does have some decent numbers. Last year, he had 80 tackles, 6 sacks, and 2 interceptions. Crowder was averaging close to 60 tackles per season, and had 2.5 sacks and 1 interception last year. I would think that we have upgraded at that position with this move, even though a lot of it had to do with Ireland's personal relationship with Burnett from the Cowboys. I guess we just have to grasp at what we can, and hope that Paul is right about the Orton deal. Maybe, just maybe, that will come to fruition.
Maybe one day the Miami Dolphins will have a quarter back that we can get excited about. Until then, we can just lust for the day that we have a new coach and GM.
Any thoughts? Thanks for reading.
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