By Sylvester “Nunnie” Robinson
Coverage of Miami Dolphins games from my perspective have included a game summation/opinion based on my observations as a writer who has played and coached football. I endeavor to write to my audience, whom I believe are as passionate and knowledgeable about the game as I am.
First, allow me to unequivocally state that I am extremely proud of the Dolphins and the effort exhibited by the team even against the Super Bowl runners up Eagles, though they lost the game. In the third quarter the score was 17 all, the outcome of game very much in doubt. Two explosive pass plays from Jalen Hurts to A.J. Brown sealed any hopes of a Dolphin victory. Statistically, the Eagles prevailed in most important categories: Total plays 68-48; Total Yards 356-244; Passing 256-199; Rushing Yards 99-45 and First Downs 26-12. The Dolphins led in penalties with 10 while the Eagles incredulously had none, and Jalen Hurts assisted our cause with 2 turnovers, one leading to a game tying interception for a touchdown by LB Jerome Baker. An earlier fumble proved inconsequential. So the result of game was in doubt until a few seconds before the end of third quarter when Eagles QB Jalen Hurts connected with A. J. Brown, setting up a Kenneth Gainwell touchdown, making the final score 31-17. Enough of the stats. Let’s dig a little deeper into causes leading to loss-my opinion!
Another term for Brotherly Love is the Tush Push, a designed quarterback sneak play that usually results in a first down 88% of time when used, a weapon of choice for the Eagles namely because of strong-legged quarterback Jalen Hurts and a superior, explosive and experienced offensive line that opponents have found virtually impossible to stop even when prepared and know it’s coming, as was the case with Miami. They get lower than the defense, leverage their power, drive their legs and work in concert to drive the defensive lineman backwards. It’s absolutely amazing and would be ridiculous to outlaw as some have proposed. Philadelphia’s head coach called the play on a fourth and one on their own 26 with the game very much in doubt. What guts since most coaches would have chosen to punt. How refreshing in the NFL. The Eagles made the first down, sustained the drive, kept the ball from our offense, and used valuable time. This became a theme several times during and at the end of game. Takeaway: Dolphins must limit yards gained on first and second downs, eliminating the Brotherly Shove usage.
Injuries to key players on the offensive line and secondary before and during game significantly impacted Dolphins. When left tackle Isaiah Wynn left game because of ankle issue, his replacement, Alabama’s Lester Cotton, had a debatable but critical holding penalty called on him, negating a touchdown. An offensive line that was already in flux because of shuffling or switching positions and players on IR like Terron Armstead only added to their woes. I love Tua but he’s not going to beat you with his athleticism. He needs a cohesive line, a solid running game, obviously key in Coach McDaniel’s scheme, (effectively negated by the Eagles Sunday night), and receivers working in concert to beat good teams like the Bills and Eagles. In both defeats Tua was sacked 4 times.
Takeaway: an intact, cohesive offensive line capable of protecting Tua and opening holes for Mostert, Ahmed, and Achane (when he returns), will make the Dolphins’ offense almost unstoppable.
Penalties played a major role in the loss. The debatable holding call on backup tackle Cotton was disappointing, but the more egregious call was roughing the passer against Christian Wilkins, who used his hands to push Hurts down, something I’ve been advocating. The message – when one team is flagged 10 times and the opponent 0 – is simple: one team was flawed and the other played a flawless, nearly perfect game. Unheard of and unimaginable in football.
Finally, I had been critical of our defense, but I thought overall they were well prepared, aggressive and unified. The defensive line, led by Jason Phillips, Bradley Chubb, Zack Seiler, et al, gave a supreme effort as did the defensive backs who were in position to knock down or defend passes, something I didn’t see as much of in past games. I was counting on the Eagles defeating the Jets. Losing, however, put them in a different mind set. The New England Patriots upsetting the Buffalo Bills says all you need to know about the American Conference, the East Division and the NFL generally: any team can win on a given Sunday, Monday or Thursday, and winning in the NFL is difficult. The Jets defeating the Eagles and the Pats’ upset of the Bills says it all. Take no team for granted, treat every team like they are THE best and win or lose, you’ll suffer no surprises.
Beware the Ides of November/December, at least in the National Football League! The Dolphins still control their own destiny.
Go Fins!
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