HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL NATIVE AMERICANS, PILGRIMS OF EVERY SORT, AND BLOGGERS!!
May you ENJOY a FULL-FILLING FEAST of food, fun, and LOVE amongst all BRETHREN!!
MONJA : )) !!
Showing posts with label Riverdog. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Riverdog. Show all posts
Hear'Ye, Hear'Ye
HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL NATIVE AMERICANS, PILGRIMS OF EVERY SORT, AND BLOGGERS!!
May you ENJOY a FULL-FILLING FEAST of food, fun, and LOVE amongst all BRETHREN!!
MONJA : )) !!
Rest in Peace Riverdog
I'm afraid I have to pass along some terrible news. Gary Cowell, the man many of you knew as Riverdog, passed away this evening. His brother Randy passed along the news to all of us here at the Shout.
Gary was such an amazing guy. He was always there to talk Dolphins, Real Estate, or life in general. I knew that if I wanted to talk I could just give him a call or shoot him an email and he'd be happy to discuss anything. He always had plenty of talk about, and I could count on at least one or two (usually more) funny stories every time I called him.
He was never afraid to share an opinion, and it didn't matter if he was in the minority. He always said what he felt and never held back. That's what I loved so much about Gary. He was a better Dolphins fan than I. He'd been through practically every up and down Miami could put him through, yet he still remained one of the most passionate fans you'll ever find. We were blessed to have him on the site with us.
We all enjoyed his presence here on Dolphin Shout, and this site wouldn't be around right now if not for him. He was the lifeblood of our community. Everything we are today was because of him. He was the glue that held Dolphin Shout together. He made our community. I would have quit a long time ago if it weren't for Gary encouraging me to continue writing. Gary had a pulse on everything that was happening on the site, and I could always count on him if I needed to know what was going on. He was such a fun guy to have around. I owe him so much for his contribution and he will be sorely missed.
To Gary's wife Beth and all of Gary's family, you have my deepest condolences. Gary was a wonderful man and he will always be a part of this site.
Rest in Peace Riverdog
Gary was such an amazing guy. He was always there to talk Dolphins, Real Estate, or life in general. I knew that if I wanted to talk I could just give him a call or shoot him an email and he'd be happy to discuss anything. He always had plenty of talk about, and I could count on at least one or two (usually more) funny stories every time I called him.
He was never afraid to share an opinion, and it didn't matter if he was in the minority. He always said what he felt and never held back. That's what I loved so much about Gary. He was a better Dolphins fan than I. He'd been through practically every up and down Miami could put him through, yet he still remained one of the most passionate fans you'll ever find. We were blessed to have him on the site with us.
We all enjoyed his presence here on Dolphin Shout, and this site wouldn't be around right now if not for him. He was the lifeblood of our community. Everything we are today was because of him. He was the glue that held Dolphin Shout together. He made our community. I would have quit a long time ago if it weren't for Gary encouraging me to continue writing. Gary had a pulse on everything that was happening on the site, and I could always count on him if I needed to know what was going on. He was such a fun guy to have around. I owe him so much for his contribution and he will be sorely missed.
To Gary's wife Beth and all of Gary's family, you have my deepest condolences. Gary was a wonderful man and he will always be a part of this site.
Rest in Peace Riverdog
Our Miami Dolphins Are Relevent Once Again
With all of the Dolphins faults: a draft with barely one player contributing, an offensive line that was previously dysfunctional, running backs that seem clueless from time to time, and a player that threw the Dolphins players and management under the bus and created a turmoil the likes of which I have never seen in all my years of being a Dolphin fan. Through it all they have persevered.
Even though Joe Philbin is about as exciting as watching grass grow, he has this team playing at its best when it counts most. I have no idea how he has done that, nor do I care. I just know that Philbin has his players thinking they can beat anyone they play. If the Patriots come here unprepared they are going to have their asses handed to them (I can't believe I said that!), but that is the feeling that I have at this time.
The Dolphins are bringing excitement back into pro football for all Dolphin fans. The Miami Dolphins are back from the dead. The weekends don't come fast enough. Sunday mornings seems to last a week. For God's sake, stop all the talk and move the kickoff up to 10:00 am.
So tell me Shouters are YOU on board?
Even though Joe Philbin is about as exciting as watching grass grow, he has this team playing at its best when it counts most. I have no idea how he has done that, nor do I care. I just know that Philbin has his players thinking they can beat anyone they play. If the Patriots come here unprepared they are going to have their asses handed to them (I can't believe I said that!), but that is the feeling that I have at this time.
The Dolphins are bringing excitement back into pro football for all Dolphin fans. The Miami Dolphins are back from the dead. The weekends don't come fast enough. Sunday mornings seems to last a week. For God's sake, stop all the talk and move the kickoff up to 10:00 am.
So tell me Shouters are YOU on board?
Dolphins-Jets Game Review
I want to start out by saying Joe Philbin has done a pretty good job steering the Dolphins through some turbulent waters in the past few weeks. Nearly every aspect of the Dolphins organization has been questioned during that time.
I would also like to ask where would this team be with out Ryan Tannehill? Not only has Tannehill been playing better in the past few weeks, he has also been a rock on which this team is leaning on. No, he may not make all the plays every single time, but he is however improving nearly every week. Tannehill plays behind an offensive line that hasn't protected him very well and gives the running backs nearly no room to run. Plenty of quarterbacks would have turned tail and ran playing behind a dysfunctional line as he has.
The win against the Jets has been the best win of the year for me. You see, there are plenty of New Yorkers down in my area. I just love to see their heads blow up any time the Dolphins beat up on the Jets. It warms my heart.
So here we sit, 12 weeks of the season are gone, and there are only four games left to play. The Dolphins still have a chance to make the playoffs. It has been a long time since we have been in the playoff chase this late in the year. I know the Dolphins are a long shot to make it, but it is nice to able to talk about it.
I would also like to ask where would this team be with out Ryan Tannehill? Not only has Tannehill been playing better in the past few weeks, he has also been a rock on which this team is leaning on. No, he may not make all the plays every single time, but he is however improving nearly every week. Tannehill plays behind an offensive line that hasn't protected him very well and gives the running backs nearly no room to run. Plenty of quarterbacks would have turned tail and ran playing behind a dysfunctional line as he has.
The win against the Jets has been the best win of the year for me. You see, there are plenty of New Yorkers down in my area. I just love to see their heads blow up any time the Dolphins beat up on the Jets. It warms my heart.
So here we sit, 12 weeks of the season are gone, and there are only four games left to play. The Dolphins still have a chance to make the playoffs. It has been a long time since we have been in the playoff chase this late in the year. I know the Dolphins are a long shot to make it, but it is nice to able to talk about it.
The Dolphins Are in the Win Column
After quickly going over the stat sheet, which by now most of you know is my favorite thing to do (NOT), I noticed the stats were about even for both teams. The Chargers had the ball for a touch longer and a few more plays than the Dolphins did, but that is nothing new. The Chargers gained roughly 100 more yards than the Dolphins did. They just didn't score very much. 16 Charger points didn't get it done yesterday.
You know what? The game really wasn't about what the stat sheet read. This game was more about the team looking more like a team and working together to get a job done, each unit pulling it's own weight, and not letting each other down. Team unity is something the Dolphins have been having problems with all year.
I think there has been a rift in the team this entire year. The meltdown of the offensive line was at the heart of all of it. Yesterday we saw an offensive line that, although they didn't play great (they gave up four sacks and allowed 107 rushing yards), they still played much better than the week before. They did that with Bryant McKinnie at left tackle (who was riding the bench in Baltimore four weeks ago), a rookie by the name of Sam Brennner playing left guard (who was on the practice squad three days before), and the versatile Nate Garner playing guard. Lets not forget Tyson Clabo, who has had a rough year to say the least, back at right tackle after being benched a few weeks ago.
If you had asked me before the game how I thought the offensive line would play I would have just asked who we play next week after a loss this week? That has me thinking. How does a patchwork offensive line play better without Martin, Incognito, and Pouncey? Have the Dolphins been playing the wrong players all along on the offensive line?
In any event it was a good win, and for that I am happy. For those that still think the Dolphins are in the hunt for a playoff spot this win should keep your hopes up.
You know what? The game really wasn't about what the stat sheet read. This game was more about the team looking more like a team and working together to get a job done, each unit pulling it's own weight, and not letting each other down. Team unity is something the Dolphins have been having problems with all year.
I think there has been a rift in the team this entire year. The meltdown of the offensive line was at the heart of all of it. Yesterday we saw an offensive line that, although they didn't play great (they gave up four sacks and allowed 107 rushing yards), they still played much better than the week before. They did that with Bryant McKinnie at left tackle (who was riding the bench in Baltimore four weeks ago), a rookie by the name of Sam Brennner playing left guard (who was on the practice squad three days before), and the versatile Nate Garner playing guard. Lets not forget Tyson Clabo, who has had a rough year to say the least, back at right tackle after being benched a few weeks ago.
If you had asked me before the game how I thought the offensive line would play I would have just asked who we play next week after a loss this week? That has me thinking. How does a patchwork offensive line play better without Martin, Incognito, and Pouncey? Have the Dolphins been playing the wrong players all along on the offensive line?
In any event it was a good win, and for that I am happy. For those that still think the Dolphins are in the hunt for a playoff spot this win should keep your hopes up.
The Dolphins Nightmare Continues
I have no idea why I am writing this. Maybe it's because I know no one else wants to do it. I really can't say. This should be pretty short. I could actually write this in one sentence and close down.
The Miami Dolphin players quit.
Not all of them, mind you, but enough of them to say this coaching staff could be blown to bits at the end of the season if they make it that far. After hearing Stephen Ross last night, I believe he has faith in Joe Philbin. It was pretty clear after watching the game last night the players don't feel the same way.
As for Jeff Ireland, he is finished as the general manager of the Dolphins. Stephen Ross never mentioned his name at the six o'clock interview, nor did he mention him during his halftime interview. I don't have any information that confirms he will be let go, but I know the kiss of death when I see it, and Stephen Ross delivered that kiss of death last night.
I would talk about the game a bit, but since very few of the Dolphins players showed up, I don't see any need to do that. Have at it everyone.
The Miami Dolphin players quit.
Not all of them, mind you, but enough of them to say this coaching staff could be blown to bits at the end of the season if they make it that far. After hearing Stephen Ross last night, I believe he has faith in Joe Philbin. It was pretty clear after watching the game last night the players don't feel the same way.
As for Jeff Ireland, he is finished as the general manager of the Dolphins. Stephen Ross never mentioned his name at the six o'clock interview, nor did he mention him during his halftime interview. I don't have any information that confirms he will be let go, but I know the kiss of death when I see it, and Stephen Ross delivered that kiss of death last night.
I would talk about the game a bit, but since very few of the Dolphins players showed up, I don't see any need to do that. Have at it everyone.
Miami Dolphin Players Are Moving Forward, and Jeff Ireland Could Be in Trouble
Well folks, there is a game on the horizon. I think after a tough week of false accusations from the media and fans alike the players seem to be coming together and they are circling the wagons.
As late as yesterday the players came to their own defense amid talk that the locker room had racial undertones. Nothing could be further from the truth from where I sit. The management did not want the players to say anything to the media. In essence, they were under a gag order, and they defied that gag order.
It is my view the Dolphins are worried about a law suit being brought by Jonathan Martin and his attorneys. The last thing the team wanted was for their players to begin talking. Anything they say could be damaging in court. The players undermining Ireland and the gag order shines a light on Ireland and why he wants the players to remain quiet. I think Ireland is in big trouble, and his own players put him there.
It all comes down to how Stephen Ross views Ireland. He knows Jeff Ireland brought Jonathan Martin to the Dolphins. What could be worse than that in Mr. Ross's eyes is that Jeff Ireland, with that selection, could cost the Dolphins Millions of dollars in attorney fees if Martin brings a suit. Add to that the general revolt of the players deifying the management yesterday and that can't bode well for Jeff Ireland.
In the meantime the players have come together. I believe they think it is them against the world, and right now I wouldn't want to be the next team that is in their way. I originally thought they would be in trouble for the remainder of the year. After seeing the interviews yesterday I think they are all pissed off, and the best thing the coaching staff can do for them is to stay out of their way and let them go beat up on someone. They even get an extra day to hear how horrible they are because they play on Monday night. That gives them one more day to boil.
If I were the Tampa Bay I would duck when the Dolphins run through the tunnel.
As late as yesterday the players came to their own defense amid talk that the locker room had racial undertones. Nothing could be further from the truth from where I sit. The management did not want the players to say anything to the media. In essence, they were under a gag order, and they defied that gag order.
It is my view the Dolphins are worried about a law suit being brought by Jonathan Martin and his attorneys. The last thing the team wanted was for their players to begin talking. Anything they say could be damaging in court. The players undermining Ireland and the gag order shines a light on Ireland and why he wants the players to remain quiet. I think Ireland is in big trouble, and his own players put him there.
It all comes down to how Stephen Ross views Ireland. He knows Jeff Ireland brought Jonathan Martin to the Dolphins. What could be worse than that in Mr. Ross's eyes is that Jeff Ireland, with that selection, could cost the Dolphins Millions of dollars in attorney fees if Martin brings a suit. Add to that the general revolt of the players deifying the management yesterday and that can't bode well for Jeff Ireland.
In the meantime the players have come together. I believe they think it is them against the world, and right now I wouldn't want to be the next team that is in their way. I originally thought they would be in trouble for the remainder of the year. After seeing the interviews yesterday I think they are all pissed off, and the best thing the coaching staff can do for them is to stay out of their way and let them go beat up on someone. They even get an extra day to hear how horrible they are because they play on Monday night. That gives them one more day to boil.
If I were the Tampa Bay I would duck when the Dolphins run through the tunnel.
ALL RIGHT MIAMI!
That was a badly needed win for the Miami Dolphins.
What a great game by the defense. They made plays everywhere, and that's what it takes to win in this game. Make some plays and you have great chance to win. Not enough can be said about Cameron Wake. What a difference maker he is. Wow! He had three sacks, a strip, a fumble recovery, and the nail in the coffin safety to win the game in overtime. Whew, that is a full night's work.
Honorable mention must go to Brent Grimes, Dimitri Patterson, Jared Odrick, Dannell Ellerbe, Phillip Wheeler, and Olivier Vernon. On a night that the Bengals ran over 90 plays this defense stood up and made play after play when it counted. That is how you win games. They actually played exactly as the words in the Dolphins Davie practice facility say: "Sound, Smart, Tough"
This is what I expected when this season began. A kick-ass defense and an offense that could get the job done when it was needed. I have nothing more to say. This week the Dolphins did the talking.
What a great game by the defense. They made plays everywhere, and that's what it takes to win in this game. Make some plays and you have great chance to win. Not enough can be said about Cameron Wake. What a difference maker he is. Wow! He had three sacks, a strip, a fumble recovery, and the nail in the coffin safety to win the game in overtime. Whew, that is a full night's work.
Honorable mention must go to Brent Grimes, Dimitri Patterson, Jared Odrick, Dannell Ellerbe, Phillip Wheeler, and Olivier Vernon. On a night that the Bengals ran over 90 plays this defense stood up and made play after play when it counted. That is how you win games. They actually played exactly as the words in the Dolphins Davie practice facility say: "Sound, Smart, Tough"
This is what I expected when this season began. A kick-ass defense and an offense that could get the job done when it was needed. I have nothing more to say. This week the Dolphins did the talking.
Disgusted Miami Dolphin Fans
Can the past three games be any more disgusting than what we have seen? These last three games after and a 3-0 start the Dolphins have come apart at the seems and the fan base has followed them. In those games we have seen a blow out at the hands of the Saints, a third quarter collapse that doomed the team against the Ravens, and an inexcusable loss against the Bills that used a practice squad quarterback to eek out a win in a division game. I'm not sure if it can any worse than that.
Those three games have brought many long time fans to their knees with disgust. Here are a quotes from people that I have known not only here but other sites for a few years. These are die-hard Dolphin fans.
Patrick:
Finfanrob
You can see the frustration, and it is that way everywhere. The disgust is most certainly evident. You couldn't find a person saying the Dolphins have a chance to win against the Patriots anywhere. When you get thinking about why would anyone say we can beat the Patriots? In the past 3 weeks have seen any reason that could convince us that we have a chance?
Does it matter that Brady is having an off year? The Dolphins will figure out a way to piss the game away. That seems to be what this team does. It never changes. It has been that way for years. Is it the water? I can't say, but if the Dolphins lose another game to a division rival where do they go from there? Where does the fan base go from there?
- See more at: http://www.dolphinshout.com/2013/10/the-miami-dolphins-do-have-plan-for.html#idc-container
Those three games have brought many long time fans to their knees with disgust. Here are a quotes from people that I have known not only here but other sites for a few years. These are die-hard Dolphin fans.
Patrick:
"Enjoy... I'll follow my own advise and stop watching"I have known Patrick for a few years now. I have seen him upset before, but I have never seen him write something like that.
Finfanrob
"If that happens it will push me all the way to the dark side where I will no matter what ever pull for the fins to win a game. I will be hater forever."'FFR' has never written anything like that from what I can remember.
You can see the frustration, and it is that way everywhere. The disgust is most certainly evident. You couldn't find a person saying the Dolphins have a chance to win against the Patriots anywhere. When you get thinking about why would anyone say we can beat the Patriots? In the past 3 weeks have seen any reason that could convince us that we have a chance?
Does it matter that Brady is having an off year? The Dolphins will figure out a way to piss the game away. That seems to be what this team does. It never changes. It has been that way for years. Is it the water? I can't say, but if the Dolphins lose another game to a division rival where do they go from there? Where does the fan base go from there?
the
bucs are sucking it up and just watch, they will get their first win of
the season against the fins on monday night football.
if that happens that will push me all the way to the dark side where i will no matter what ever pull for the fins to win a game. i will be a hater forever. - See more at: http://www.dolphinshout.com/2013/10/25-year-phiniversary-marino-passes-for.html#idc-container
if that happens that will push me all the way to the dark side where i will no matter what ever pull for the fins to win a game. i will be a hater forever. - See more at: http://www.dolphinshout.com/2013/10/25-year-phiniversary-marino-passes-for.html#idc-container
Enjoy... I'll follow my own advise and stop watching...
Enjoy...
I'll follow my own advise and stop watching... - See more at:
http://www.dolphinshout.com/2013/10/the-miami-dolphins-do-have-plan-for.html#idc-container
Enjoy...
I'll follow my own advise and stop watching... - See more at:
http://www.dolphinshout.com/2013/10/the-miami-dolphins-do-have-plan-for.html#idc-container
The Miami Dolphins Do Have a Plan for the Future
The loss to the Bills really fired everyone up, and I noticed that with all the comments everyone is a little upset this week. Do not despair! There is a plan moving forward with in the Dolphins organization.
Many of you will ask me how I know this, and to be honest I don't. I do, however, have quite a bit of experience in knowing these things. It's a feeling really. Maybe Ireland has said something that I picked up on. Maybe it's something that I have seen in the past, that says "hey, I know what they have in mind here." Old age does that to you. Many of you will learn this as you go along in life.
Many can not figure out what Ireland is doing. He moved up in the draft last year and took a linebacker with an injury at third overall. Admittedly, that didn't make a lot sense when we needed an offensive lineman so badly. I think the Dolphins did that because there was a plan in place, and not because they seemed to be brainless when they made that selection.
The brain trust seems to be hell bent on improving the athleticism and play making ability on this team. Even at the expense of passing on a player that was badly needed. How long have we at the Shout been saying that the team needs to get some playmakers? It's been awhile, hasn't it? Surely in the past two years it is clear that the brain trust has put an effort into improving the skill positions.
They drafted a quarterback in the first round last year. A quarterback that was very green and probably not ready to start in his first year. I feel they did that because they knew last year this team was a few years away from being able to compete at the highest level. They did the same thing this year drafting Dion Jordan. These moves are something an established winning team would do. A team like the Packers or the Broncos would make selections like the Dolphins made. Those teams can wait for a player to develop. The Dolphins, because of the lack of talent, must throw our draft choices into the fray and live with the pain of them growing up in the line of fire.
Even though Ireland has been here for five years now, there was no long-term plan in place until Joe Philbin arrived. Hell, the trifecta didn't even know what kind of a team they were. Were they a passing team? A running team? A wildcat team? They didn't know. What they did was put the team into salary cap hell and had no talent to show for it. This team was a mess until Philbin and Ireland put a plan in place.
Yes, there is no doubt that I am sick of all the losing, and I want to see this team get turned around before I die. I also know that Mr. Ross has committed to a longer term solution to put the Dolphins back on the NFL map. It will not happen as quick as I want it to. I think Mr Ross has given this team a four or five year window to put a team to reckon with on a week to week basis on the field.
Jeff Ireland and Joe Philbin are not as concerned as the fan base is for winning today's game or next week's game. They are looking further down the road.
The problem is that doesn't suit my needs, nor, judging by the comments made over the weekend, does it suit your needs either.
Many of you will ask me how I know this, and to be honest I don't. I do, however, have quite a bit of experience in knowing these things. It's a feeling really. Maybe Ireland has said something that I picked up on. Maybe it's something that I have seen in the past, that says "hey, I know what they have in mind here." Old age does that to you. Many of you will learn this as you go along in life.
Many can not figure out what Ireland is doing. He moved up in the draft last year and took a linebacker with an injury at third overall. Admittedly, that didn't make a lot sense when we needed an offensive lineman so badly. I think the Dolphins did that because there was a plan in place, and not because they seemed to be brainless when they made that selection.
The brain trust seems to be hell bent on improving the athleticism and play making ability on this team. Even at the expense of passing on a player that was badly needed. How long have we at the Shout been saying that the team needs to get some playmakers? It's been awhile, hasn't it? Surely in the past two years it is clear that the brain trust has put an effort into improving the skill positions.
They drafted a quarterback in the first round last year. A quarterback that was very green and probably not ready to start in his first year. I feel they did that because they knew last year this team was a few years away from being able to compete at the highest level. They did the same thing this year drafting Dion Jordan. These moves are something an established winning team would do. A team like the Packers or the Broncos would make selections like the Dolphins made. Those teams can wait for a player to develop. The Dolphins, because of the lack of talent, must throw our draft choices into the fray and live with the pain of them growing up in the line of fire.
Even though Ireland has been here for five years now, there was no long-term plan in place until Joe Philbin arrived. Hell, the trifecta didn't even know what kind of a team they were. Were they a passing team? A running team? A wildcat team? They didn't know. What they did was put the team into salary cap hell and had no talent to show for it. This team was a mess until Philbin and Ireland put a plan in place.
Yes, there is no doubt that I am sick of all the losing, and I want to see this team get turned around before I die. I also know that Mr. Ross has committed to a longer term solution to put the Dolphins back on the NFL map. It will not happen as quick as I want it to. I think Mr Ross has given this team a four or five year window to put a team to reckon with on a week to week basis on the field.
Jeff Ireland and Joe Philbin are not as concerned as the fan base is for winning today's game or next week's game. They are looking further down the road.
The problem is that doesn't suit my needs, nor, judging by the comments made over the weekend, does it suit your needs either.
Dreadful Dolphins
I was lucky. I got to go the game yesterday. I should have stayed home. Don't get me wrong. It was fun. I had a great time, great seats, and man was it HOT! Nothing new for Florida. Floridians kinda get used to the heat, but the game itself was dreadful.
On the wall of the Davie Complex, which is the practice facility, is a mission statement, more or less. It says: "SOUND SMART TOUGH". The Dolphins played TOUGH yesterday, but the SOUND & SMART part passed them by.
They were not sound in any phase of the game. The coaching staff wasn't sound because the team after having a week off looked like they were still on vacation. The opening first quarter was as bad as you could imagine.
Starting the game out with a motion penalty by Jonathan Martin after a nice gain by Miller of five yards, negating those five yards. Then Tannehill threw what could have been one of the worst passes I have ever seen at a live game for a pick six. Tannehill was looking right at the defender that was covering our receiver. I don't remember who our receiver was on that play, but I can tell you this he was NOT open. Not only that, but Tannehill threw a beautifully soft pass right to the defender that stepped in front of the receiver and pranced into the end zone for a 7-0 lead not one minute into the game. Did I say that was one of the worst passes I have seen thrown at a live game?
That's okay, the SMART part is coming next. Not! Miami quickly gets the ball back and makes some headway down field, but then must punt. Fields comes through as he usually does and uncorks a punt that the returner allows to hit the ground. The ball just takes off and the Dolphins down it around the 10 yard line. But wait, one of the Dolphins special teams mavens runs out of bounds on that play and is the first to touch the ball. So the Dolphins must re-kick after a five yard penalty, and the Bills end up with the ball on the Dolphins 46 yard line, which equaled a nearly 50 yard penalty. Yeah I know, SMART. The Bills promptly turn that into a touchdown for a 14-0 lead.
I think Tannehill most likely played the worst game at quarterback that I have ever seen in person, and I have seen some bad performances over my many years. His pick six throw was bad, but he also had another interception that killed a scoring drive at the Bills four yard line. When he threw up a lollipop pass for another receiver that nearly made me throw up. Well those things happen, right? But wait, he isn't done yet. With about three minutes left in the game he fumbles the ball that rolls all the way to the Dolphins 46 yard, where the Bills recover the ball, roll up two first downs, take the time down to 35 seconds, and then kick a short field goal for the lead.
So I'm thinking well this game is over. But Thigpen has a great return and the Dolphins have the ball with a short field. All we need are two first downs and Sturgis will have a chance to put the game away. First down: we get nothing. Second down: nothing. Third down: nothing. But then Hartline comes free in the corner at about the six yard line. Tannehill throws a pass that is about four yards beyond Hartline and the game is over. Basically through the entire game Tannehill misfired, was off target, threw interceptions, or fumbled the ball and the game away. Sorry everyone, there is simply no other way to view this game.
The Dolphins running game looked pretty good, and if they stayed with the run a bit more maybe the score would have been different. Who knows? Daniel Thomas had a very nice game and Lamar Miller nearly broke a play off for a touchdown.
Which brings me back to the coaching staff. We had a number of third and short situations and didn't convert any of them. In all of those third and short situations the coaches didn't call one running play. Every third and short that I remember was a pass play. We were 3 of 13 on third downs. We lost the turnover battle by 3-1. We out gained them in the running game, but had five less carries then they did.
SMART SOUND TOUGH
Not on this day, baby!
On the wall of the Davie Complex, which is the practice facility, is a mission statement, more or less. It says: "SOUND SMART TOUGH". The Dolphins played TOUGH yesterday, but the SOUND & SMART part passed them by.
They were not sound in any phase of the game. The coaching staff wasn't sound because the team after having a week off looked like they were still on vacation. The opening first quarter was as bad as you could imagine.Starting the game out with a motion penalty by Jonathan Martin after a nice gain by Miller of five yards, negating those five yards. Then Tannehill threw what could have been one of the worst passes I have ever seen at a live game for a pick six. Tannehill was looking right at the defender that was covering our receiver. I don't remember who our receiver was on that play, but I can tell you this he was NOT open. Not only that, but Tannehill threw a beautifully soft pass right to the defender that stepped in front of the receiver and pranced into the end zone for a 7-0 lead not one minute into the game. Did I say that was one of the worst passes I have seen thrown at a live game?
That's okay, the SMART part is coming next. Not! Miami quickly gets the ball back and makes some headway down field, but then must punt. Fields comes through as he usually does and uncorks a punt that the returner allows to hit the ground. The ball just takes off and the Dolphins down it around the 10 yard line. But wait, one of the Dolphins special teams mavens runs out of bounds on that play and is the first to touch the ball. So the Dolphins must re-kick after a five yard penalty, and the Bills end up with the ball on the Dolphins 46 yard line, which equaled a nearly 50 yard penalty. Yeah I know, SMART. The Bills promptly turn that into a touchdown for a 14-0 lead.
I think Tannehill most likely played the worst game at quarterback that I have ever seen in person, and I have seen some bad performances over my many years. His pick six throw was bad, but he also had another interception that killed a scoring drive at the Bills four yard line. When he threw up a lollipop pass for another receiver that nearly made me throw up. Well those things happen, right? But wait, he isn't done yet. With about three minutes left in the game he fumbles the ball that rolls all the way to the Dolphins 46 yard, where the Bills recover the ball, roll up two first downs, take the time down to 35 seconds, and then kick a short field goal for the lead.
So I'm thinking well this game is over. But Thigpen has a great return and the Dolphins have the ball with a short field. All we need are two first downs and Sturgis will have a chance to put the game away. First down: we get nothing. Second down: nothing. Third down: nothing. But then Hartline comes free in the corner at about the six yard line. Tannehill throws a pass that is about four yards beyond Hartline and the game is over. Basically through the entire game Tannehill misfired, was off target, threw interceptions, or fumbled the ball and the game away. Sorry everyone, there is simply no other way to view this game.
The Dolphins running game looked pretty good, and if they stayed with the run a bit more maybe the score would have been different. Who knows? Daniel Thomas had a very nice game and Lamar Miller nearly broke a play off for a touchdown.
Which brings me back to the coaching staff. We had a number of third and short situations and didn't convert any of them. In all of those third and short situations the coaches didn't call one running play. Every third and short that I remember was a pass play. We were 3 of 13 on third downs. We lost the turnover battle by 3-1. We out gained them in the running game, but had five less carries then they did.
SMART SOUND TOUGH
Not on this day, baby!
Is the Dolphins' Hunt for a Quarterback Finally Over?
BigRey actually came up with this question. Imagine that. BigRey is a star on Dolphin Shout! It is nice to get ideas from you guys, and all I need to do is expand on them.
To answer that headline myself, I think our hunt for a quarterback is over. I think we found the right player. Tannehill sure shows a lot of what it takes to make it in this league. A quarterback needs a lot of attributes to make a go of it in the NFL, and I think Tannehill has them all.
Sure, a quarterback needs to make all the throws, or at least have the tools to make all of the throws. Tannehill easily has that, but he also has more. Tannehill is one tough dude. He has taken a beating because of this offensive line, but he keeps getting up. He is not only physically tough, but he is mentally tough as well, which could be even more important. Getting dumped as many times as he has this year must take its toll on a passer, but you would never know that. Tannehill hasn't said a word about it. Mental toughness. Don't leave home without it. Tannehill hasn't.
There have been many quarterbacks in this league who can make all the throws but never amount to much. They didn't have the mental makeup to make it in this league. We have seen the meltdowns of Vince Young and, the most famous of all, Ryan Leaf.
Ryan Tannehill may never be as good as Dan Marino. I don't even care. Dan Marino is gone. He is never going to play for us again, so there is little reason to even mention his name except as a past player. I guess Ryan Tannehill will always play in his shadow. This is one fan that doesn't want to think about an old worn out shoe. I like the shiny new penny.
I want to think about the future and what Tannehill has to lead this team into that future. That is all that matters to me.
To answer that headline myself, I think our hunt for a quarterback is over. I think we found the right player. Tannehill sure shows a lot of what it takes to make it in this league. A quarterback needs a lot of attributes to make a go of it in the NFL, and I think Tannehill has them all.
Sure, a quarterback needs to make all the throws, or at least have the tools to make all of the throws. Tannehill easily has that, but he also has more. Tannehill is one tough dude. He has taken a beating because of this offensive line, but he keeps getting up. He is not only physically tough, but he is mentally tough as well, which could be even more important. Getting dumped as many times as he has this year must take its toll on a passer, but you would never know that. Tannehill hasn't said a word about it. Mental toughness. Don't leave home without it. Tannehill hasn't.
There have been many quarterbacks in this league who can make all the throws but never amount to much. They didn't have the mental makeup to make it in this league. We have seen the meltdowns of Vince Young and, the most famous of all, Ryan Leaf.
Ryan Tannehill may never be as good as Dan Marino. I don't even care. Dan Marino is gone. He is never going to play for us again, so there is little reason to even mention his name except as a past player. I guess Ryan Tannehill will always play in his shadow. This is one fan that doesn't want to think about an old worn out shoe. I like the shiny new penny.
I want to think about the future and what Tannehill has to lead this team into that future. That is all that matters to me.
Dolphins Doomed by 3rd Quarter Play
With the Dolphins up by a touchdown to begin the 3rd quarter, they came out and promptly gave up 17 points to go down by a score of 23-13.
The Ravens ran 28 plays to the Dolphins 11. Two of which were punts. The time of possession in that quarter was 13:57 to 3:36. The Ravens led in total time of possession by nearly 13 minutes.
Of course, that wasn't the only reason they lost this game. The 6 sacks and a grand total of 22 yards rushing, of which six were by Tannehill, contributed mightily. Miami ran the ball 11 times and averaged two yards per carry.
This offensive line could be the worst I have seen since the Dolphins expansion years. As bad as the offensive line was in Cam Cameron's single year here, even that line could at least run block some. This is the second game the Dolphins running game has been held to under 25 yards for the game.
As bad as the offensive line and the running backs played, the Dolphins still had a chance to pull this game out. A huge play by Tannehill late in the game was nearly enough to even up the score. Unfortunately, the 6th and final sack of the game finished the Dolphins off. Tannehill cannot take a sack and give up yards late in a game like that.
I must say that if it wasn't for Tannehill and his passing this week's score would have much, much worse. It was Tannehill's play that kept the Dolphins in this game. Along with a defense that hung in there all day long and helped get us back into the game.
We had a chance to keep pace with the Patriots because of their loss today. It would have been nice to get this win, but I didn't think we would be at 3-2 after playing the Colts, Falcons, Saints, and Ravens to start the season.
The Ravens ran 28 plays to the Dolphins 11. Two of which were punts. The time of possession in that quarter was 13:57 to 3:36. The Ravens led in total time of possession by nearly 13 minutes.
Of course, that wasn't the only reason they lost this game. The 6 sacks and a grand total of 22 yards rushing, of which six were by Tannehill, contributed mightily. Miami ran the ball 11 times and averaged two yards per carry.
This offensive line could be the worst I have seen since the Dolphins expansion years. As bad as the offensive line was in Cam Cameron's single year here, even that line could at least run block some. This is the second game the Dolphins running game has been held to under 25 yards for the game.
As bad as the offensive line and the running backs played, the Dolphins still had a chance to pull this game out. A huge play by Tannehill late in the game was nearly enough to even up the score. Unfortunately, the 6th and final sack of the game finished the Dolphins off. Tannehill cannot take a sack and give up yards late in a game like that.
I must say that if it wasn't for Tannehill and his passing this week's score would have much, much worse. It was Tannehill's play that kept the Dolphins in this game. Along with a defense that hung in there all day long and helped get us back into the game.
We had a chance to keep pace with the Patriots because of their loss today. It would have been nice to get this win, but I didn't think we would be at 3-2 after playing the Colts, Falcons, Saints, and Ravens to start the season.
The Miami Dolphins Have the Best Quarterback in the AFC East
That's right. At this point in time the Dolphins have the highest rated quarterback in the AFC East.
According to Pro Football Focus, Ryan Tannehill is the 9th rated quarterback in the entire NFL. Tom Brady is at 20, EJ Manuel is at 26, and Geno Smith is at 28. And no, none of this is a misprint.
Tannehill has quarterback rating of 94.2. Brady's rating is 74.1, Manuel's is 96. 3, and Smith's rating is 55.2. As you can see, PFF doesn't go by quarterback rating alone to come up with their results.
The darlings of the league: Russell Wilson, Robert Griffin III (RG2.5), and Colin Kaepernick are all below Tannehill. To be honest I was really surprised to see Tannehill above those three.
Tannehill has raised his quarterback rating 20 points over last year. None of this suggests that Tannehill will stay where he is, but it does show that he can play at pretty high level. If Ryan stays at that level, the Miami Dolphins will be looking at winning season this year.
It's a bit early to call Tannehill the future of the Dolphins, but it sure is looking that way at this point in time. This week's game is another stepping stone for the Dolphins. If they can get the job done this week, look out. There is no telling where Tannehill can take this team.
According to Pro Football Focus, Ryan Tannehill is the 9th rated quarterback in the entire NFL. Tom Brady is at 20, EJ Manuel is at 26, and Geno Smith is at 28. And no, none of this is a misprint.
The darlings of the league: Russell Wilson, Robert Griffin III (RG2.5), and Colin Kaepernick are all below Tannehill. To be honest I was really surprised to see Tannehill above those three.
Tannehill has raised his quarterback rating 20 points over last year. None of this suggests that Tannehill will stay where he is, but it does show that he can play at pretty high level. If Ryan stays at that level, the Miami Dolphins will be looking at winning season this year.
It's a bit early to call Tannehill the future of the Dolphins, but it sure is looking that way at this point in time. This week's game is another stepping stone for the Dolphins. If they can get the job done this week, look out. There is no telling where Tannehill can take this team.
Dolphin Shout Will Be on Sports Radio Tonight
Hello fellow Miami Dolphins fans. The Shout has been invited to be on a Sports Radio Show tonight. Click here tonight to tune in to the show.
Tonight at 9:45 PM EST to hear me, "Riverdog", try not to embarrass myself. From what I understand there will be two other guests on the show along with me. I was told the segment will last about 10 minutes. I'll be talking Dolphins and would love for you guys to listen along.
Thanks for stopping by. Hope you enjoy the show!
Tonight at 9:45 PM EST to hear me, "Riverdog", try not to embarrass myself. From what I understand there will be two other guests on the show along with me. I was told the segment will last about 10 minutes. I'll be talking Dolphins and would love for you guys to listen along.
Thanks for stopping by. Hope you enjoy the show!
Make Your Miami Dolphins Predictions
Yes, I know we have talked about this earlier in the preseason. The difference is now we have seen a little more of the team play. From my seat I am seeing a very good defensive unit. It could be one of the better defenses in the entire league, which could win us a few games this season.
I do not think we have a playoff worthy offense quite yet. I know Polly will love this, but I see our running game being better than last year. I see our passing game being better than last year as long as Tannehill improves. I don't see our offensive line being a playoff caliber unit, nor is our tight end position. Simply stated, I don't have the confidence in the offensive unit like I do on the defensive side.
I do believe we have more depth than in the past, but even that depth has some weaknesses. We see that with our tight end and I don't think we have much depth at the linebacker position. The offensive line is still looking for starters. If someone goes down in those positions the entire year could change.
So here is my guess. Because of the lack of depth in a few positions I think the Dolphins will go 8-8 this year. If the team goes 3-2 in the opening five games (and I think they can if things go right) then we could be looking at a 10 win season, and that should put us in the playoffs. I suspect a 2-3 start, however, and that will mean we will be under the gun from the get go.
A three-loss start would mean the Dolphins will need to win some high pressure games later on. We have not done well in those situations for quite some time. We have failed in those games far more times that I want to think about. Unless we begin to win some of those games I see a .500 record. We must prove we can beat the good teams, and we must prove we can win the games we should win. We have not done that on a consistent basis, and that needs to change.
So give me your final prediction now that the NFL season officially begins tomorrow.
 |
| I wonder how many wins Steve Ross is expecting |
I do believe we have more depth than in the past, but even that depth has some weaknesses. We see that with our tight end and I don't think we have much depth at the linebacker position. The offensive line is still looking for starters. If someone goes down in those positions the entire year could change.
So here is my guess. Because of the lack of depth in a few positions I think the Dolphins will go 8-8 this year. If the team goes 3-2 in the opening five games (and I think they can if things go right) then we could be looking at a 10 win season, and that should put us in the playoffs. I suspect a 2-3 start, however, and that will mean we will be under the gun from the get go.
A three-loss start would mean the Dolphins will need to win some high pressure games later on. We have not done well in those situations for quite some time. We have failed in those games far more times that I want to think about. Unless we begin to win some of those games I see a .500 record. We must prove we can beat the good teams, and we must prove we can win the games we should win. We have not done that on a consistent basis, and that needs to change.
So give me your final prediction now that the NFL season officially begins tomorrow.
Dolphins Preseason Game Three Recap: Is That Another Fumble?
That was the name of the game tonight folks: FUMBLES.
On a night when the defense just about destroyed Tampa Bay the Dolphins offense fumbled away the game. If not for the Dolphins fumbles Tampa Bay would have been shut out. Miami's third team defense was tossing a shut out until the Gillislee fumble in the fourth quarter.
Doesn't that seem typical for this team? Play a great game and then give it away. From the reports coming out after the game Philbin was not a happy camper.
I was okay with Tannehill's play. When we compare him to Freeman he played a great game. Josh Freeman should be cut from the Bucs. Whatever you do don't select Freeman for any of your fantasy teams. He makes Sanchez look good.
After watching our tight ends I think we are really, really, really, going to miss Dustin Keller. I would say we would be better off not using a TE. They were invisible and Charles Clay was "doghouse" material. No, I'm not going to put him in the "doghouse" for two reasons. First, it's only preseason and secondly I am having trouble getting rid of the smell from Dan Carpenter.
Our wide receivers had a tough go of it. For a time there they couldn't get open and when that didn't happen only perfect passes will work, and Tannehill doesn't throw passes like that at this time. Come to think of it, only about four quarterbacks in the league can throw those passes. I think we expect Tannehill to make the throws that Brady, Manning, Brees, and Rodgers make. This is only his second year. Give him a little more time, alright?
I have come to the conclusion that Daniel Thomas has NO FEEL for running the ball. He has no idea where the soft spots are in the running game. He doesn't even know where the running lanes are. The guy is clueless. The running backs' blocking was much, much better this week, so maybe they are catching on.
So now it's time to turn off the critical eye. I really liked the way the Defense played, and I have been waiting to say that. The pass rush was AWESOME! The run defense was smothering. All the Bucs offense could do was crawl in a hole and hide. If only the offense could get their act together and be consistent. They showed us they can move the ball, and Tannehill can be more effective.
Everyone please look for Mike's new post below this one. He puts a lot of time into a post as we all do. So don't miss what he has to say:
Ranking the Dolphins Schedule by Difficulty
On a night when the defense just about destroyed Tampa Bay the Dolphins offense fumbled away the game. If not for the Dolphins fumbles Tampa Bay would have been shut out. Miami's third team defense was tossing a shut out until the Gillislee fumble in the fourth quarter.
Doesn't that seem typical for this team? Play a great game and then give it away. From the reports coming out after the game Philbin was not a happy camper.
I was okay with Tannehill's play. When we compare him to Freeman he played a great game. Josh Freeman should be cut from the Bucs. Whatever you do don't select Freeman for any of your fantasy teams. He makes Sanchez look good.After watching our tight ends I think we are really, really, really, going to miss Dustin Keller. I would say we would be better off not using a TE. They were invisible and Charles Clay was "doghouse" material. No, I'm not going to put him in the "doghouse" for two reasons. First, it's only preseason and secondly I am having trouble getting rid of the smell from Dan Carpenter.
Our wide receivers had a tough go of it. For a time there they couldn't get open and when that didn't happen only perfect passes will work, and Tannehill doesn't throw passes like that at this time. Come to think of it, only about four quarterbacks in the league can throw those passes. I think we expect Tannehill to make the throws that Brady, Manning, Brees, and Rodgers make. This is only his second year. Give him a little more time, alright?
I have come to the conclusion that Daniel Thomas has NO FEEL for running the ball. He has no idea where the soft spots are in the running game. He doesn't even know where the running lanes are. The guy is clueless. The running backs' blocking was much, much better this week, so maybe they are catching on.
So now it's time to turn off the critical eye. I really liked the way the Defense played, and I have been waiting to say that. The pass rush was AWESOME! The run defense was smothering. All the Bucs offense could do was crawl in a hole and hide. If only the offense could get their act together and be consistent. They showed us they can move the ball, and Tannehill can be more effective.
Everyone please look for Mike's new post below this one. He puts a lot of time into a post as we all do. So don't miss what he has to say:
Ranking the Dolphins Schedule by Difficulty
Where Would the Dolphins Be without Free Agency?
As the preseason approaches I find myself thinking about where the Dolphins would be without the free agents that were signed this offseason. I am not big fan of free agent signings because our free agent signings haven't done very well for us in the past.
Maybe I am jaded by the Dave Wannstedt era where it seemed that every free agent the team brought in was an over-the-hill, used-up player whose best days were behind them. He drove this team right into the ground. Since him we have had a mish-mash of head coaches, philosophies, and schemes to the point that us fans had lost confidence in the team. That continues to this day.
Having said that, I feel that the free agent signings that were brought here this year are different than in the past. Yes, some of the players brought here had some injuries, but this is the NFL and most of the players have some degree of injury concern. That's not to minimize those concerns, but that is a fact in the NFL. So, for the sake of this discussion let's take the injury concerns out of the equation.
Where would we be without the free agents? I'll tell you right now where I think we would have been. We would be looking at another losing season. We would have needed to spend our early draft choices on at least two wide receivers that would take a few years to develop. We would not have traded up in the draft to steal the top rated defensive player in the draft.
Hidden in the free agent signings was something no one has mentioned that I know of. Those signings allowed us build some depth on this team. One of the problems we have had is when a starter goes down with an injury there was no one there that could take his place. We didn't have many reserves pushing the starters for the number one spot on the depth chart. So, this team could never build from within because of the lack of depth on the team.
I don't know how this season will shake out; maybe these free agents turn out to be nothing more than a bunch of hot air. Who knows? I know one thing. I like our chances a hell of a lot better this year than any of the past 10 years. We actually have a chance of competing with the better teams. The Patriots don't seem quite so difficult this year, and neither do those first five games that everyone seems to think we will lose.
Maybe I am jaded by the Dave Wannstedt era where it seemed that every free agent the team brought in was an over-the-hill, used-up player whose best days were behind them. He drove this team right into the ground. Since him we have had a mish-mash of head coaches, philosophies, and schemes to the point that us fans had lost confidence in the team. That continues to this day.
Having said that, I feel that the free agent signings that were brought here this year are different than in the past. Yes, some of the players brought here had some injuries, but this is the NFL and most of the players have some degree of injury concern. That's not to minimize those concerns, but that is a fact in the NFL. So, for the sake of this discussion let's take the injury concerns out of the equation.Where would we be without the free agents? I'll tell you right now where I think we would have been. We would be looking at another losing season. We would have needed to spend our early draft choices on at least two wide receivers that would take a few years to develop. We would not have traded up in the draft to steal the top rated defensive player in the draft.
Hidden in the free agent signings was something no one has mentioned that I know of. Those signings allowed us build some depth on this team. One of the problems we have had is when a starter goes down with an injury there was no one there that could take his place. We didn't have many reserves pushing the starters for the number one spot on the depth chart. So, this team could never build from within because of the lack of depth on the team.
I don't know how this season will shake out; maybe these free agents turn out to be nothing more than a bunch of hot air. Who knows? I know one thing. I like our chances a hell of a lot better this year than any of the past 10 years. We actually have a chance of competing with the better teams. The Patriots don't seem quite so difficult this year, and neither do those first five games that everyone seems to think we will lose.
Miami Dolphins Positional Breakdown: Quarterback
This will be the final installment of the positional breakdowns of all the Miami Dolphins player units. I want to thank Kenny, Patrick, Todd, and Shawn for doing their part in this effort. Mike came on board after this segment had started, and that is the reason we did not see a write up from him.
Not to worry, though, Mike has been staying busy writing about the 15 most important players for this team.
Last year the Miami Dolphins took Ryan Tannehill with their first round pick in the draft (eighth overall). During OTAs and preseason he showed the new coaching staff enough to be the Dolphins starter, and he played in all 16 games.
2012 Stat Line
Attempts: 484
Completions: 282
Completion Percentage: 58.3
Yards: 3,294
Average: 6.8
Yards per game: 205.9
Touchdowns: 12
Interceptions: 13
Sacks: 35
Passer Rating: 76.1
His passer rating of 76.1 is ranked 27th in the league, but his passer rating in the fourth quarter was 17th in the league. As I look back on those numbers I wouldn't say they are very good, but I wouldn't say they are that bad either.
Did he have the year that RG3, Wilson, or Luck had? I would say no, but I feel this coaching staff was trying to bring him along slowly. It was more important for the staff to teach him how they wanted him to play in this offense.
The win/loss record really didn't mean that much to the Dolphins management last year. The staff came here knowing that they had to change more than just the mentality of losing. They also had to train a new quarterback to play this game in a manner that will be successful for the NFL. The staff may have installed a new fast pace offense, but they are still old school NFL coaches.
All of us know that even though the Dolphins have added quite a bit of new talent, this team will revolve around Tannehill improving. Because of what I saw last year in him, I believe he will improve. He showed us he is a quick learner and rarely makes the same mistake again. His 10-spot improvement in fourth quarter passer rating from 27 to 17 shows he knows when the bright lights are on and he steps up his game.
He has all the tangibles, big arm, touch, mobile, and he looks down field first. He does need to improve a few things like getting rid of the ball quicker, learning to use the check down, and, of course, improve his touchdown to interception production.
For a team that had very little fire power last year, and with the added talent Tannehill's touchdown production should go up, and with that so will the win totals.
Oh, and one more thing. I left Paul out of the group above on purpose. I felt he needed a special thank you from me, all to himself. If it were not for him, none of us would be doing this. Patrick, Kenny, Shawn, Todd, Mike, myself, and all of you who read these words, comment, and follow the Dolphin Shout couldn't make The Dolphin Shout the best Dolphin Community on the net. Thank You Paul.
Not to worry, though, Mike has been staying busy writing about the 15 most important players for this team.
Last year the Miami Dolphins took Ryan Tannehill with their first round pick in the draft (eighth overall). During OTAs and preseason he showed the new coaching staff enough to be the Dolphins starter, and he played in all 16 games.2012 Stat Line
Attempts: 484
Completions: 282
Completion Percentage: 58.3
Yards: 3,294
Average: 6.8
Yards per game: 205.9
Touchdowns: 12
Interceptions: 13
Sacks: 35
Passer Rating: 76.1
His passer rating of 76.1 is ranked 27th in the league, but his passer rating in the fourth quarter was 17th in the league. As I look back on those numbers I wouldn't say they are very good, but I wouldn't say they are that bad either.
Did he have the year that RG3, Wilson, or Luck had? I would say no, but I feel this coaching staff was trying to bring him along slowly. It was more important for the staff to teach him how they wanted him to play in this offense.
The win/loss record really didn't mean that much to the Dolphins management last year. The staff came here knowing that they had to change more than just the mentality of losing. They also had to train a new quarterback to play this game in a manner that will be successful for the NFL. The staff may have installed a new fast pace offense, but they are still old school NFL coaches.
All of us know that even though the Dolphins have added quite a bit of new talent, this team will revolve around Tannehill improving. Because of what I saw last year in him, I believe he will improve. He showed us he is a quick learner and rarely makes the same mistake again. His 10-spot improvement in fourth quarter passer rating from 27 to 17 shows he knows when the bright lights are on and he steps up his game.
He has all the tangibles, big arm, touch, mobile, and he looks down field first. He does need to improve a few things like getting rid of the ball quicker, learning to use the check down, and, of course, improve his touchdown to interception production.
For a team that had very little fire power last year, and with the added talent Tannehill's touchdown production should go up, and with that so will the win totals.
Oh, and one more thing. I left Paul out of the group above on purpose. I felt he needed a special thank you from me, all to himself. If it were not for him, none of us would be doing this. Patrick, Kenny, Shawn, Todd, Mike, myself, and all of you who read these words, comment, and follow the Dolphin Shout couldn't make The Dolphin Shout the best Dolphin Community on the net. Thank You Paul.
The Miami Dolphins: All Peaches and Cream...Not!
We here on the Shout have been praising Jeff Ireland and the staff for what they have done this year. It really does look promising doesn't it? The Miami Dolphins have allowed a few players to move on that seem to be having declining careers. You know who they are so I won't mention their names. They are gone and there is nothing we can do about it. Some of us, myself included, agree with the moves, and others do not. Neither of us is wrong.
I am not so foolish to think that EVERY move the Dolphins have made will work out. Losing Reggie Bush is not something that can be just written off with the promise of Lamar Miller, or anyone else for that matter. The fact is we really don't know. When we let Bush go I think it said more about what direction the team was heading in than what they felt about Reggie Bush's ability. My thoughts were they are going to put more on Tannehill and the passing game than what they were willing to put into the running game. I think we are going to see quite a bit more about what the west coast offense is all about next year. Last year was no more than a stepping stone for what the future will be.
As I look into that future it looks brighter than what it has for a long time. That is not me being an optimist. The fact is I am neither an optimist nor a pessimist. I try to keep everything real. I trust that people will do the right thing, but I never count on that happening. And so it goes with the Miami Dolphins.
I trust that the moves the Dolphins made this year will work out, but will they? Not all of the moves will be good ones and not all will be bad ones, regardless of how they look on paper. Some of the players brought in will have injuries and others will, for lack of a better word, suck. They will not be near what we thought they would be. Which ones they will be I have no idea.
Philbin and Ireland have taken a bold step. They are turning the team over to Tannehill. They have taken a chance on Ellerbe, Wheeler, and Jordan. They have done the same with their wide receiver and running back positions. I like the moves, but I know they will not all work out.
I am not so foolish to think that EVERY move the Dolphins have made will work out. Losing Reggie Bush is not something that can be just written off with the promise of Lamar Miller, or anyone else for that matter. The fact is we really don't know. When we let Bush go I think it said more about what direction the team was heading in than what they felt about Reggie Bush's ability. My thoughts were they are going to put more on Tannehill and the passing game than what they were willing to put into the running game. I think we are going to see quite a bit more about what the west coast offense is all about next year. Last year was no more than a stepping stone for what the future will be.
As I look into that future it looks brighter than what it has for a long time. That is not me being an optimist. The fact is I am neither an optimist nor a pessimist. I try to keep everything real. I trust that people will do the right thing, but I never count on that happening. And so it goes with the Miami Dolphins.
I trust that the moves the Dolphins made this year will work out, but will they? Not all of the moves will be good ones and not all will be bad ones, regardless of how they look on paper. Some of the players brought in will have injuries and others will, for lack of a better word, suck. They will not be near what we thought they would be. Which ones they will be I have no idea.
Philbin and Ireland have taken a bold step. They are turning the team over to Tannehill. They have taken a chance on Ellerbe, Wheeler, and Jordan. They have done the same with their wide receiver and running back positions. I like the moves, but I know they will not all work out.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
