114 replies to this topic

[sodenj5]

I'm keeping my fingers crossed that Tannehill performs with the first unit. I know Miami isn't going to be good this year. If Tannehill is at least Moore's equal, then why sit him? Miami knows they aren't going to be a playoff team. Why not spend this year getting experience under RTH's belt? Yes, there's a chance that he can go comatose like Blaine Gabbert. There's also a chance he can have a Dalton-esque season and hit the ground running. If Garrard were still in the picture, it may be different. I say if RTH doesn't fall on his face tonight, he's the starting quarterback.

[Clears Cleaver]

Tannehill was named starter today. I watched the game vs Carolina...wow are they awful. there is not one thing that this team does well. Their D was supposed to be improved....I saw them look slow, miss tackles and get no pressure V Carolina. They were without four starters, but I'm not sure it matters. and the offense has not a single playmaker. Bush is not, Thomas is not, Bess is not...theya re all fine players, average NFL guys for their roles. Maybe Lamar Miller will be a playmaker, I don't know

With Tannehill, this is a three win team, four tops

[sodenj5]

Tannehill was named starter today. I watched the game vs Carolina...wow are they awful. there is not one thing that this team does well. Their D was supposed to be improved....I saw them look slow, miss tackles and get no pressure V Carolina. They were without four starters, but I'm not sure it matters. and the offense has not a single playmaker. Bush is not, Thomas is not, Bess is not...theya re all fine players, average NFL guys for their roles. Maybe Lamar Miller will be a playmaker, I don't know

With Tannehill, this is a three win team, four tops

With almost anyone not named Brady or Rodgers, they're a 4 win team. The offense lacks weapons. Bush, Thomas, and Miller make a solid backfield, but they have a bunch of 2's and 3's. They have no #1 wideout. The biggest problem against Carolina was the offensive line was getting manhandled.

The D didn't look great, but hard to judge missing Wake, Dansby, and Burnett. I expect them to be better than their showing in the first 2 preseason games.

I'm in favor of starting Tannehill simply because they have nothing to gain by starting anyone else. He's looked like the best quarterback on the team all training camp, and you aren't going to get much more out of Moore than you got last year. Let the kid start and hope he takes his lumps and grows from it this year.

Edited by sodenj5, 20 August 2012 - 08:45 PM.

[sodenj5]

Back to back tough losses, but positives to take away from the game:

Tannehill looked really good against one of the better defenses in the league, on the road. His receivers let him down with a Hartline falling on one pick, and the Nanee catch, no-contact fumble. Should have just taken the sack on the last INT, but for the most part, he contributed in a big way.

Hartline: whoa.

Defense played well for the most part, and Smith had two big picks and contained Fitzgerald for the most part. Pass rush was in Kolb's face all game.

Yet, again, they couldn't close out a should have been victory. Carpenter with another missed FG. Way too many turnovers. The hallmarks of a rebuilding team.

[CaptainLaddie]

Honestly, the Dolphins have looked pretty good to me -- better than the Jets, despite losing to them, and better than the Cards despite losing to them. They've got some talent, play hard, and have a good defense. They should be interesting to watch gel over the last 8 weeks.

[pdaj]

I'm a bit bummed after seeing my team blow two very winnable games -- but it's hard not to maintain proper perspective considering Tannehill's play. I love the kid's poise in the pocket, athleticism, and ability to make so many throws in tight spaces. Considering his limited college experience and lack of weapons in his first NFL season, I'm floored by his performance thus far. I think it's safe to say that the Dolphins can build around this guy.

Is he the most promising QB in this year's draft class?

http://bleacherrepor...n-2012-qb-class

Personally, I wouldn't go that far -- as Luck and RGIII look poised for huge careers. But I think Tanny can be just as successful (or close) as both.

It's also nice to see some of the new guys contribute already in addition to Tannehill, including Martin (starter) and Miller, who's proving to be worthy of a few carries per game. Looking back at last year's class, Pouncey's been a huge success, and Daniel Thomas, Clay, and Jimmy Wilson all see the field.

Simply put, I love this defense. It's a lot of fun seeing opposing offenses run into a brick wall time after time. The red zone defense has been especially impressive. Will the Fins spend their 1st rounder on a top CB in order to make this unit elite?

Another thing -- losses = better draft position. So as long as the team isn't embarrassing, I'll be okay with the close defeats. Miami has their 1, two 2's, and two 3's in next year's draft --- the perfect opportunity to add some much-needed talent.

Lastly, I'm elated to see that Naanee was cut. He was quickly becoming one of my least fav' Dolphins of all time, and that was before this week's phantom fumble. Bring on Gaffney!

http://www.rotoworld...6/jabar-gaffney

Dolphins signed WR Jabar Gaffney and released WR Legedu Naanee.
Gaffney worked out for the Dolphins a month ago, but he was believed to be still battling a thigh injury at the time. The timing of the signing suggests he's finally back to full health. Gaffney should assume Naanee's role as the third receiver behind Brian Hartline and Davone Bess. He won't have fantasy value while playing less than half of the offensive snaps. Oct 2 - 3:54 PM

Edited by pdaj, 02 October 2012 - 03:51 PM.

[epraz]

http://bleacherrepor...n-2012-qb-class

I am dumber for having read that article.

[pdaj]

I am dumber for having read that article.

Haha, I didn't read it until after posting. It was definitely written by your average, teen-aged Dolphins' fan.

Edited by pdaj, 02 October 2012 - 04:43 PM.

[Turrable]

I am dumber for having read that article.

This is known as "The Bleacher Report Effect"

[epraz]

The whole thing was ridiculous, but my favorite reason was this:

Standing at 6'4" and 220 pounds, Tannehill has all the physical intangibles down.

[Clears Cleaver]

Tannehill made some impressive throws today, including one where he cahnged the play and protection at the line and hit the TE on a seam route 20 yards downfield over the LB and inside the safety as he was getting hit. It was a pro-bowl play. Play calling and turnovers and special teams continue to plague this team, but right now they are 2-3 (should be 3-2 or even 4-1) and the second best team in the division. They clearly have bought into Philbin's staff as the defnese is playing great. they have some decisions to make with Bush and Long next year and HAVE to find some guards, a CB and WR, bu they have a 1, two 2s and two 3s in the draft. Can I say things are actually looking UP in miami?

amazing stat i saw on twitter today. Dolphins have recovered 1 of the last 18 fumbles that have occurred in their games. incredible

[tims4wins]

This team could easily be 4-1. They are in my eyes the clear 2nd best team in the AFC East.

[sodenj5]

Wow, Miami finally closes out a W. on the road, against a playoff team from a year ago. Sean Smith once again stifled one of the top WRs in the game.

Tannehill looked great. The thing I've loved seeing is him roll out of the pocket to elude a rush, and instead of taking the easy 4 yard run, he keeps his eyes downfield and makes a big throw to Hartline. He is not playing like a rookie at all.

Miami still has holes to fill, and are still making mistakes, but they are literally 2 plays from being 4-1. I said it in the game thread, but I think Miami is the best bad team in the league right now. They play St. Louis next week in a winnable game. They can make their way to .500 and take it from there. Exciting to see the team trending in the right direction for the first time in a long time.

[SeoulSoxFan]

This team could easily be 4-1. They are in my eyes the clear 2nd best team in the AFC East.

And I think there's a huge, depressing, dark, gloriously silent space between the Phins and the bottom dwellers Bills and the Jets.

[Clears Cleaver]

And I think there's a huge, depressing, dark, gloriously silent space between the Phins and the bottom dwellers Bills and the Jets.

but there is also a pretty huge, 38-year old porn star gap between the Pats (with Brady) and Miami

[pdaj]

I'm having more fun with this rebuilding year than I expected, largely due to Tannehill's impressive early performance/progress. In addition, if Miami can stay in contention for a playoff spot until the end, it would add even more enjoyment to the process. Sunday's game vs. the Rams should let us know how possible this scenerio is ...

Edited by pdaj, 12 October 2012 - 04:33 PM.

[Clears Cleaver]

they won, but so did the Jets and Bills, meaning all four AFC East teams are 3-3. Miami has a bye this week then have a huge raod game at the Jets. After that its at Indy, home to TN and @ Buffalo. I think they need to be 6-4 at this point to have any chance at a playoff spot because then they have Seattle, the Pats and SF before getting JAx and Buffalo and then closing with the PAts.

Offense really struggled today, but they might have best D in the division. Tannehill didn't make any errors. they couldn't run the ball at all, though, which is going to be a problem. I was expecting three wins tops all year, so to be 3-3 is pretty remarkable

[sodenj5]

they won, but so did the Jets and Bills, meaning all four AFC East teams are 3-3. Miami has a bye this week then have a huge raod game at the Jets. After that its at Indy, home to TN and @ Buffalo. I think they need to be 6-4 at this point to have any chance at a playoff spot because then they have Seattle, the Pats and SF before getting JAx and Buffalo and then closing with the PAts.

Offense really struggled today, but they might have best D in the division. Tannehill didn't make any errors. they couldn't run the ball at all, though, which is going to be a problem. I was expecting three wins tops all year, so to be 3-3 is pretty remarkable

St. Louis has a very good D. Not being able to get a running game going against them is nothing to be ashamed of. Miami took care of business against a team they should have beaten. That is progress. I remember seeing them fall flat so many times on games they should have been able to win on paper. They even had a couple of calls that didn't go their way (tuck rule fumble, and the blown call on the Gibson catch and fumble that was ruled an incompletion.) and they didn't fall apart.

Tannehill had 2 TD passes, 0 INTs, and a quarterback rating of 112.0. He's growing every single game he's out there, and faster than even the most optimistic of fans could have expected. It'll be interesting to see how they come off the bye week in preparation for a big divisional game that they should have won the first time around. Heading into the bye at .500 and tied for the division lead has to be huge mentally.

Can't say how much I love seeing what this regime is doing.

[pdaj]

Add me to the list of people impressed with the Rams -- they're a tough, well-coached team. Prior to Sunday, St. Louis had bested Arizona, Washington, and Seattle; and should have beaten Detroit. The fact that Miami got this win despite playing especially well offensively or as well as they have most of the season defensively, is a very good sign, in my opinion. File this one under Learning to Win.

Great timing for the BYE. This should give the Fins time to get healthy, expand the offensive playbook, and prepare for a huge game vs. the Jets in Week 8. Hopefully this allows Jabar Gaffney to get more comfortable with the offense, as well. This team desperately needs another capable receiver to help boost the passing game. Getting back Daniel Thomas and Rishard Marshall would also be nice. Before his latest concussion, DT was serving the role of tough-yardage back rather well.

[glennhoffmania]

It's incredible that this team should be 4-2, if not 5-1. I had no hope coming into this season. They're making me consider going to sports bars again every Sunday so I can watch the games.

God, that Carpenter miss against the Jets is really pissing me off now.

[Clears Cleaver]

there is definitely a playoff spot out there in the AFC. Its really bad right now. Outside of Houston, no one, not even banged up Baltimore at 5-1, is a lock to make the playoffs

[pdaj]

So, um, pretty big game this weekend, eh? ;-)

[jk333]

It's incredible that this team should be 4-2, if not 5-1. I had no hope coming into this season. They're making me consider going to sports bars again every Sunday so I can watch the games.

God, that Carpenter miss against the Jets is really pissing me off now.

Honestly, they just look to be really, really well coached. They're really well rounded. Interesting that its the Packers assistant that's doing this.

[mcaqua]

You already know the Jets are flappin' gums about how they have Reggie Bush intimidated and worried about getting hurt based on the last meeting in which the Dolphins running back suffered a knee injury.

You know LaRon Landry said incidiary things and referenced head-hunting. Well, so did Aaron Maybin.
"We want to knock him out but we want to do it legally," Maybin told ESPNNewYork.

I predicted that kind of stuff would be answered today by the Dolphins. Well, the Dolphins are answering.
Enter Dolphins center Mike Pouncey.

"He won't even play enough to hurt Reggie," Pouncey said of the reserve Jets linebacker. "I don't even want to talk about talk about him. He's a joke."
Game on.

Pouncey also made the point that if he wants to get at Maybin it'll have to be on special teams.
Ziiing.

That team in Jersey is so easy to hate. It will be interesting to see how effectively this coaching staff utilized the extra time to prepare. Huge game.

Full article can be found here:

http://miamiherald.t...heated-now.html

Edited by mcaqua, 26 October 2012 - 09:23 AM.

[Mystic Merlin]

I like Mike Pouncey.

[pdaj]

Honestly, they just look to be really, really well coached. They're really well rounded. Interesting that its the Packers assistant that's doing this.

I think that, offensively, Mike Sherman deserves a fair share of the credit. It's interesting to see the Panthers (with Cam Newton, DeAngelo/Stewart, Steve Smith, and Greg Olson) significantly struggle to score points (10 vs. TB, 7 vs. NY, 12 vs. Seattle, and 14 vs. Dallas); while the Dolphins (with Tannehill, Bush, Hartline/Bess, and Fasano) manage to win ball games by scoring enough and avoiding turnovers.

Of course, having a tough, underrated defense helps with that, also; and that's where I've been impressed with Croyle. While you don't see the exotic bltiz packages you'd see with Rex, I've been elated with how well the younger players have improved/performed when asked to step up, particularly guys like Carroll (replacing Marshall), and Jimmy Smith (Nickle/Dime packages) in the secondary. Miami's front 7 is as tough as any, making this unit really fun to root for.

[mcaqua]

I think that, offensively, Mike Sherman deserves a fair share of the credit. It's interesting to see the Panthers (with Cam Newton, DeAngelo/Stewart, Steve Smith, and Greg Olson) significantly struggle to score points (10 vs. TB, 7 vs. NY, 12 vs. Seattle, and 14 vs. Dallas); while the Dolphins (with Tannehill, Bush, Hartline/Bess, and Fasano) manage to win ball games by scoring enough and avoiding turnovers.

Of course, having a tough, underrated defense helps with that, also; and that's where I've been impressed with Croyle. While you don't see the exotic bltiz packages you'd see with Rex, I've been elated with how well the younger players have improved/performed when asked to step up, particularly guys like Carroll (replacing Marshall), and Jimmy Smith (Nickle/Dime packages) in the secondary. Miami's front 7 is as tough as any, making this unit really fun to root for.

I think Croyle has benefited tremendously from the personnel they have along the defensive line, where they don't necessarily need to blitz to generate pressure. And consider the fact that many folks, myself included, believe that Odrick is playing out of position and is a much more efficient pass rusher on the inside. Its just a beastly group (Starks has been particularly dominant). That said, I do believe Croyle has contributed a great deal to the maturation of their safties, Reshad Jones in particular (although that is not to discount the strides made by Chris Clemons). IIRC, PFF has him rated as one of the top 3 (at least) safeties in all of football, which is just a mind-blowing accomplishment considering the state of the Dolphins safety play just a year ago. IMO, the secondary has been the biggest surprise of this team, especially considering the Vontae deal this offseason that left them paper thin back there. And, as you noted, Nolan Carroll has really stepped up his game in Marshall's absence.

Edited by mcaqua, 26 October 2012 - 04:49 PM.

[Clears Cleaver]

<sub>great analysis and spot on. reshad has been great (was ranked between 1-3 at safety by PFW). smith has been great as well. they need one more CB (along with an OL and WR) to be really solid throughout. Maybe a TE too (assuming DNP-coaching decision Egnew is a bust). and they have and 1, two 2s and two 3s to find those players.

I really hope they just pound the Jets. I am hoping the extra week gets Lamar Miller into the rotation at RB. he can make plays.

Odrick</sub>

[pdaj]

I'm a big fan of Lamar Miller (especially long-term), but I loved the way Daniel Thomas ran vs. NYJ and Cincy (before going down), getting those tough yards to move the chains. I think he compliments Bush fairly well, and I'm glad to have him back this week.

I think Ireland reached a bit (or quite a bit) on Egnew. Tight ends coming out of Missouri haven't faired well transitioning to the NFL, and Egnew's highlight reel made it pretty clear that he was a project type, considering the Fins want him to play a traditional, hand-in-the-dirt style. He needs to get stronger and become (at least) an average blocker. We should know the deal on him by next year -- but I'm not quite ready to give up on him at this point.

Marshall's injury has been unfortunate, but until we face NE/BUF, I don't think his absense will kill us. Need him back by those games, though. Here's also hoping that Gaffney can fill-in as a much-needed 3rd receiver ... soon. There's NO question that the Miami FO will be looking to bring in a big play-maker at wide-out next season.

Prediction: Charles Clay surprises with a big receiving game vs. the Jets.

[sodenj5]

First off, after a week of talking back and forth, it felt great to watch the Jets completely implode.

Secondly, hats off to Matt Moore for coming in and getting the job done when his number was called.

Miami's special teams and defense won this game. The offense did just enough to keep the chains moving and not make any big mistakes.

Reports are Tannehill's injury is a hyperextended knee and thigh bruise. Seems like he could have played if necessary, but with the game in hand by halftime, absolutely no point in running him out there and risking making it any worse.

Huge win for Miami. Coming off the bye, they looked like the far better prepared/better coached team. Completely outplayed the Jets in all 3 phases.

Who would have thought that the Colts Dolphins game in Week 9 would have real playoff implications? Miami needs to take care of business in Indy next week and not dwell on this W too long.

[pdaj]

You know, as the season moves forward, this team reminds me more and more like our '08 team. Efficient and mistake free on offense and tough defensively. That playoff team even began the season 2-4 before winning 9 of their final 11 games, with scores like 17-15 vs. Oakland, 16-12 vs. Seattle, and 16-3 vs. Buffalo. The '08 team ran the ball a bit better with Brown/Williams; but with options like Camarillo/Bess/Ginn and Fasano/Martin/Cobbs, Tannehill might have a better group of receivers with Hartline/Bess/Gaffney and an improved Fasano. This year's special teams unit is also one of the best that I can remember, especially now that Carpenter has found some consistency.

Anyhow, it was beautiful seeing the Fins win primarily due to special teams and defense. This well-coached, disciplined team refuses to beat themselves; and they'll get more and more dangerous each week if the offense can continue to get better. It was nice to see Gaffney get some play today. I know he missed that catch deep along the sideline, but he looked quick out there. Marlon's catch earlier in the game was sensational. Hopefully these two help open up the passing game a bit. Bush had a few nice runs also, but it was nice to see Thomas running hard for those tough yards. I think he compliments Reggie really well.

Here's the Dolphin's next 4 games: @Indy, Tenn, @Buf, Seattle

All four are extremely winnable; especially with the Seattle game at home. If we can head into the NE game 8-4 or 7-5, things could get interesting.

Edited by pdaj, 28 October 2012 - 06:40 PM.

[mcaqua]

As a Dolphins fan, there are very few things more satisfying than annihilating the Jets. We ended their season last year and effectively ended any playoff hopes they might have had this season.

I'll let Richie do the honors of officially ending Jets week..



And just because its so delicious:

Edited by mcaqua, 29 October 2012 - 10:32 AM.

[Tony C]

So are the Fins officially a scary team? I'd say yes, but not incredibly so. The defense is definitely scary, and Tannehill (assuming he's back quickly) seems to have progressed enough that they're a competent offensive team. I don't think they have the offensive weapons this year to be truly scary, but...definitely a force to be reckoned with and clearly the #2 team in the AFC East. Bottom line a WC favorite, I'd guess they'll split with the Pats (I think I assumed that from the start of the year) and by no means can they be discounted for the divisional title.

[sodenj5]

I'd say they lack an elite receiver to be truly considered scary. Bottom line is they have a very real chance in the next 4 weeks to put themselves into the drivers seat as far as a wild card spot goes with next week's game maybe being the biggest.

[Morgan's Magic Snowplow]

So are the Fins officially a scary team? I'd say yes, but not incredibly so. The defense is definitely scary, and Tannehill (assuming he's back quickly) seems to have progressed enough that they're a competent offensive team. I don't think they have the offensive weapons this year to be truly scary, but...definitely a force to be reckoned with and clearly the #2 team in the AFC East. Bottom line a WC favorite, I'd guess they'll split with the Pats (I think I assumed that from the start of the year) and by no means can they be discounted for the divisional title.

I agree and I can see them winning a playoff game as well. Even before this week, Football Outsiders had Miami as the #4 team in the AFC (behind NE, DEN, HOU) and I'm not sure that's wrong. Maybe Pittsburgh is better but I don't see any other teams out there that I like more than Miami.

I imagine this is a really fun team to enjoy if you're a Fins fan because the future looks really bright and expectations were so low that its basically all gravy at this point.

[pdaj]

I imagine this is a really fun team to enjoy if you're a Fins fan because the future looks really bright and expectations were so low that its basically all gravy at this point.

I couldn't have said it any better.

[pdaj]

Anthony Armstrong was released a short while ago, opening a spot on the 53-man roster. With Gaffney and Moore coming on of late, AA wasn't going to see the field. Will there be a trade? Probably not, but it's an interesting development. Starks and McDaniel got a little banged up Sunday; so maybe Ireland's looking to add some DL depth. I believe Matthews is on the practice squad, so he could be signed, taking Armstrong's place as the 6th WR on the roster.

Edit: Looks as though Rishard's already on the 53 at the 5th wide-out.

Edited by pdaj, 30 October 2012 - 11:05 PM.

[sodenj5]

Rough loss that boils down to 2 things:

Third downs against Andrew Luck. Not to take anything away from Luck. He was great, but he was hitting wide open receivers 10-15 yards downfield. Miami was pitiful in coverage. Should have had an easy 3 INTs (Dansby with the drop, Smith with the drop, and the floater that Hilton came down with in the end zone should have been an easy pick into double coverage.) Luck was really good, but he got away with a few, and Miami couldn't get a stop or make him pay for his very few mistakes.

Second is the O-Line was beaten like a drum by Freeny and Mathis. Long has always had issues with pure speed rushers, but he looked bad Sunday. He's flat out not playing good enough. Miami will have a tough decision on him in the offseason. Do they pay him as the all-pro left tackle he's been since 08, or do they pay him as the guy that's been average to above average the last year and a half or so? Tannehill got hit way too often to be effective.

Miami has 2 very winnable games against Tenn. and then Buffalo on the quick turnaround.

A lot of hype surrounding the Luck Tannehill matchup. ESPN was saying it could be the next Manning/Brady rivalry. I agree. RG3 and Luck will only square off once every 4 years, Luck v Tannehill will be a matchup we see far more often. People also forget that Luck is throwing to Reggie Wayne, a future hall of fame receiver. Tannehill is throwing to Brian Hartline. I think once Miami gets Tannehill a legitimate target, these Luck Tannehill matchups will be a lot of fun to watch.

[tims4wins]

I watched the 30 minute Sunday Ticket version of this game last night, and Miami really had a couple of great chances on 3rd down to get off the field and win this game. Kind of surprising from such a good defense. The first was mid-3rd quarter... Miami up 17-13... Indy faced 3rd and 16 from their own 31... completed a pass for 19 yards, ended up getting 7 on the drive. Maybe the turning point of the game.

Then after the Phins drove for the tying field goal, they had Indy in a 3rd and 11 from their own 5... 20 yard completion... Indy ends up driving for the winning field goal.

Felt kind of like watching the Pats D, actually. Shame for Miami.

[sodenj5]

I watched the 30 minute Sunday Ticket version of this game last night, and Miami really had a couple of great chances on 3rd down to get off the field and win this game. Kind of surprising from such a good defense. The first was mid-3rd quarter... Miami up 17-13... Indy faced 3rd and 16 from their own 31... completed a pass for 19 yards, ended up getting 7 on the drive. Maybe the turning point of the game.

Then after the Phins drove for the tying field goal, they had Indy in a 3rd and 11 from their own 5... 20 yard completion... Indy ends up driving for the winning field goal.

Felt kind of like watching the Pats D, actually. Shame for Miami.

Exactly. Miami did a good job of holding them on first and second downs, and forced them into a lot of third and longs, but they left guys wide open for 15-20 yard completions. Part of it was Luck buying extra time moving around in the pocket, but a huge part was Miami was leaving guys completely uncovered. Really a poor display from a team that was #1 in the NFL in third down defense coming into the game.

On a side note, had to like the way Tannehill played banged up, and stood in the pocket and delivered throws under duress. He took a couple of big shots in the game and hung in there. 2 that come to mind were the Freeny sack from behind when he fumbled and Long recovered, and one where he was practically in his own endzone, and dumped the ball off to a receiver on a quick pit and got absolutely crushed by the DT. The kid is tough and doesn't pull the ball down and scramble around. He uses his athleticism to move around the pocket and can take off and run, but rarely does. Kind of a lot like Luck plays. He's playing far better than I could have ever hoped. Now if the line can keep him on his feet, we'll be making progress.

[tims4wins]

Richard Marshall to IR

[Clears Cleaver]

I think the Fish spend their first three picks next year on OT, WR and CB. They have a 1, two 2s; and two 3s.

Long is a problem. He is 27th ranked OT by PFF this year. No way he deserves $12M per year for that. I can't see them re-signing him for that kind of $$.

they probably also draft a TE and ILB

[tims4wins]

Long has been a decent player, but (even as a UM grad school alum) I never understood why they took him with the 1st overall pick - he wasn't an Orlando Pace or Jonathan Ogden, IMO. Of course, there were several busts in the top 10 of that draft, but man, imagine if they had taken Matty Ice.

[mcaqua]

I have watched every snap of the Dolphins season thus far and I am not attempting to be obtuse, but what happened?

The difference in their level of play from a month ago to now (the last two games in particular) has been striking. I can't even begin to attempt to guess what the heck happened, but they haven't shown up for two weeks straight. Is it a talent issue? Maybe, but they've looked like one of the three worst teams in football.

Whatever the case, it is pretty clear that Tannehill has regressed as opponents begin to collect tape on him.

Edited by mcaqua, 16 November 2012 - 10:10 AM.

[smastroyin]

Given that Jake Long has pulled a huge disappearing act and is getting worse week by week combined with the fact that Tannehill is a rookie, it is probably not a coincidence that his level of play has gone down since the hit that knocked him out of the Jets game.

[mcaqua]

Long was pretty solid last night (and has been all season really, outside of the Colts game). A lot of people will point to the shitty technique that led to him getting blown up by Merriman last night, but one play doesn't characterize his game. Now, I don't think they should pay him what he'll be seeking come this offseason, but that is an entirely different story.

Still, something happened with this team. Like I said, the level of play has been night and day.

[Shelterdog]

Long was pretty solid last night (and has been all season really, outside of the Colts game). A lot of people will point to the shitty technique that led to him getting blown up by Merriman last night, but one play doesn't characterize his game. Now, I don't think they should pay him what he'll be seeking come this offseason, but that is an entirely different story.

Still, something happened with this team. Like I said, the level of play has been night and day.

At left tackle it does--the difference between great and ok is one bad play a game.

[mcaqua]

At left tackle it does--the difference between great and ok is one bad play a game.

Yeah, I just disagree in this particular instance. Maybe if it gets Tannehill killed and/or directly leads to a turnover but this was an open field block.

FWIW, PFF has Long giving up a single hurry and nothing else in 35 pass plays last night.

He hasn't been the Jake Long of old, but he's not even close to being the issue with this offense.

Edited by mcaqua, 16 November 2012 - 12:32 PM.

[pdaj]

He hasn't been the Jake Long of old, but he's not even close to being the issue with this offense.

He's not the issue; but he might not be worth signing to a long-term contract work 10+ per year. It wouldn't surprise me to see him franchised, giving the Dolphins FO another year to evaluate his play and determine the level of commitment they're comfortable with.

Great win yesterday. With work/school/life, I wasn't able to catch the game until the 4th quarter. Perfect timing. I watched the entire game later in the night and came away impressed with the Dolphin's front 7. What a freakin' performance. On offense, Bush/Thomas got it done on the ground. Elated to see Tannehill lead the comeback in the 4th.

I'm not really looking foward to see this team face the Patriots. Anything's possible in a divisional contest, but Miami just doesn't match up well with NE. Teams that are determined to be "balanced" or are stubborn with establishing the running game play right into the Dolphins' hands. The Pats won't play that game. We saw what the Colts were able to due with Luck and a decent receiving core. Brady and Co. should be able to pick Miami's secondary apart all day from shotgun. It could get ugly.

Here's hoping Miami's offense is able to get the ground game going and control the clock as long as much as possible. I think Tanny can have a lot of success vs. NE's secondary (even with Talib) if the Dolphins can remain balanced. Still, I just can't see Miami being able to put up enough points to grab this one.

[smastroyin]

Here's my logic:

- Tannehill was knocked out of the Jets game
- He came back in the Indy game,in which Long was terrible, and Tannehill was under pressure all the time
- In the second half of the Indy game, Tannehill had no feel for the pocket, was rushing throws, and as a result missed some open receivers
- Tannehill then played like garbage against the Titans (just horrific against a bad team) and Bills (better at times but still not good)

It is hard enough to a veteran QB to deal with not trusting his blind side and being worried about being hit. When you are a rookie QB with only 20 games of college experience, it can be a bit harrowing when you combine it with everything else.