Campbell’s first step was committing to the run. The Dolphins rushed for a season-high 180 yards and controlled the tempo of the game. The second big adjustment Campbell made was turning up the pressure on Titans rookie quarterback Marcus Mariota, who was sacked five times and looked flustered throughout. Miami had just one sack in its first four games.
Overall, it was a successful coaching debut for Campbell, who was an unknown commodity entering his first game. He got a Gatorade bath from his players late in the fourth quarter.
What it means: The Dolphins are 2-3 and now within reach of .500. A loss would have all but ended any chance of having a respectable year. With 11 games left, the team is still in position to make something of its season. The amount of talent on this team can make Miami a formidable opponent if Campbell can keep everyone motivated and on the same page.
Wake quake: One of Miami’s big issues has been its inability to rush the quarterback. Pro Bowl defensive end Cameron Wake single-handedly changed that with four sacks. The constant pressure also forced Mariota into two interceptions.
One reason to get excited: Campbell has this team playing motivated, and that is something that didn’t happen in four games under former head coach Joe Philbin. There was a lot of good energy on the field and on the sideline during the game. The Dolphins looked like they were having fun again, which is a big change from earlier this season.
One reason to panic: The Dolphins had their first blowout win of the season, so there is no reason to panic right now. But it is worth noting that quarterbackRyan Tannehill had his ups and downs. He threw for 266 yards, two touchdowns and two interceptions. He nearly threw a third pick in the second half that was dropped by a Titans defender. Tannehill must avoid turnovers when the Dolphins play in more competitive games.
Fantasy watch: One of the biggest beneficiaries of a coaching change was running back Lamar Miller. He rushed for a season-high 113 yards and a touchdown, and was involved throughout the game. Miller entered the season with 131 rushing yards in four games, as Miami often abandoned the run too early.
Ouch: Dolphins cornerback Brice McCain suffered a knee injury in the first half and didn’t return. McCain started the first five games for Miami this season. Nickel cornerback Jamar Taylor filled in for McCain the rest of the game.
What’s next: The Dolphins will return to Sun Life Stadium for the first time since Week 2 to host the Houston Texans next Sunday. This is another winnable game for the Dolphins, who are 0-7 all time against Houston
