NFL
By: Edwin Duodu
The Miami Dolphins were projected to have a top-five pick in this year’s upcoming draft. That was because of the slow start to the season, along with sloppy performances and undisciplined performances. However, somehow this team has fought to win four straight and are playing its best football. The main question now needs to be asked of Brian Flores’s squad regarding a potential playoff run. Do the Dolphins have what it takes to make a push for a Wild Card spot and have an outside chance?
Let’s start with the outstanding performance of the defense. In its 1-7 start, Miami allowed 29.1 points per game, had only 12 sacks and forced teams into turnovers nine times. However, in the past four games, they’ve held teams to only 11.5 points per game, accumulated 16 sacks, and forced opponents into ten turnovers. The momentum is clear here. There are multiple reasons for their underperforming start to the season and their recent wins in the league.
In the beginning, the Miami defense seemed to linger away from their bread and butter. Earlier, we didn’t notice a defensive front with constant pressure against opposing quarterbacks. That has all suddenly changed. Jaelan Phillips and Emmanuel Ogbah have been solid in that department, and the former had three sacks against the Carolina Panthers.
The essential detail that separates the defense from its earlier performances is the success of Josh Boyer’s “Cover 0” coverage. This part of his defensive scheme has allowed Dolphins defenders to confuse quarterbacks and offensive coordinators. Miami’s linebacker core consists of Jerome Baker, Elandon Roberts, and Andrew Van Ginkel, who are all athletic enough to fake a pass rush and drop back into coverage. More times than not, it has proven successful in foiling offensive playcalling in the past four weeks. If the Dolphins use this defensive coverage for the rest of the season, the team will have chances in games, no matter the opposition. [pickup_prop id=”15741″]
The offense has found a way to be efficient. Tua Tagovailoa has completed 70.5% of his passes and has made enough plays to win games. Brian Flores knows not to put too much pressure on his quarterback and let his defense win the game, a key element of Bill Belichick’s philosophy. That involves short passing and not turning the football over. As long as Tagovailoa manages the game properly and uses his legs to make the occasional “Big play,” Miami will be in every game.
The Dolphins must stay patient with the running game. Now that Phillip Lindsay has been added to the mix to accompany Myles Gaskin, there could be more production from that aspect of the offense in the coming games. In addition, Miami has found a way to get Jaylen Waddle more involved to have an impact. This, in turn, builds confidence for the rookie and helps with his development. These components contribute to a team that has gained belief and is now fighting for a chance to be accounted among the aspiring playoff contenders.
At 5-7, the Dolphins may have a slight shot. Right now, it would be foolish to count them out just yet. But with a remaining schedule of the Giants, Jets, Saints, all teams who have underwhelmed this year; a Patriots team they defeated on the road in Week 1; and an injured Titans side that hasn’t looked great in recent weeks, there is an opportunity to make some noise. This journey continues with a matchup with the Giants this Sunday.
