Charles Clay: Miami’s Big Play Threat?
Sept. 16, 2012; Miami, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins fullback Charles Clay (42) runs with the ball against the Oakland Raiders defense at Sun Life Stadium. The Dolphins won 35-13. Mandatory Credit: Steve Mitchell-US PRESSWIRE
The Miami Dolphins have yet to find a big play threat through the air in their offense. Yes, Brian Hartline BROKE OUT against the Arizona Cardinals last week – 12 receptions for an astounding 253 yards and 1 touchdown – but the lack of consistency is a huge concern for this young offense.
Miami has a huge issue facing them right now, who is our big play threat through the air on offense? Running Back Reggie Bush has yet to be utilized in the passing game – although he has gotten off to a great start running the ball this season! Wide receivers Davone Bess and Brian Hartline really do not scare anyone – both also tend to drop off the face of the earth after a great game (consistency?). Third-round rookie tight end, Michael Egnew is still a big project and has yet to suit up for a game this season. Not to mention starting tight end, Anthony Fasano has been serviceable when rookie quarterback, Ryan Tannehill, gets himself into a “sticky” situation – other than that Fasano has been basically invisible.
So who is Miami’s big play threat? Well, MIKE SHERMAN, second-year tight end, Charles Clay is Miami’s big play threat on offense. Offensive Coordinator, Mike Sherman, needs to do a better job of utilizing Clay’s unique skill set. Clay, a 6-3 250 lbs. rock, has seen little production so far in the young season – posting 1 reception for 2 yards. Sherman, we need to get this guy the ball.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AVHwkcY-SAw
Last season, Clay really began to come on as a seam-threat at the tight end position (16 receptions for 233 yards and 3 touchdowns) – something Miami has been missing for decades. Clay, who possesses 4.5 speed, should be given looks split out at wide receiver – similar to how the offense uses Fasano. Rumor’s were spread that General Manager Jeff Ireland kept recently released wide receiver Legadu Naanee in the starting line up for his blocking ability, an area where Clay excels.
Sherman should incorporate Clay into unique packages that will give him the ball in space, or to take advantage of a clear mismatch. Clay has the speed to get behind a linebacker or safety in man coverage.
Yes, Charles Clay has had issues with drops in the past – he dropped a big one last week against Arizona. BUT, Clay needs to get more opportunities. The more opportunities Clay gets, the more dynamic and explosive this offense can be. We just have to utilize our play-makers.
As always, Keep Your Fins UP!!!