Dallas Cowboys Vs. Miami Dolphins: Five Players To Watch
By Eric Roddy
Aug 16, 2014; Tampa, FL, USA; Miami Dolphins quarterback Ryan Tannehill (17) runs out of the pocket during the first quarter against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
The Miami Dolphins will host the Dallas Cowboys in their third preseason game tonight at 7 pm Eastern Time in Sun Life Stadium. Here are my five players to watch heading into this game.
1. Dion Jordan.
DJ has had himself a nice preseason. He has seen reps with both the first team and second team defense, and should feel prepared and ready for week 5 after coming back from his suspension. Keep an eye on Miami’s former number three draft pick, especially the different places he lines up on the field. He can stand up, he can play in the stance, and he can cover. With Jordan, Olivier Vernon, and Cameron Wake attacking the quarterback, this Dolphins defense could be very dangerous.
2. Knowshon Moreno.
Here we go. Time to see Moreno in action for the first time since acquiring him this past off season. The Dolphins’ running game was nonexistent against the Bucs, rushing for negative yardage in the first half. Keep an eye on Moreno and how he pairs with Lamar Miller. While I believe Miller will start, expect Moreno to get his fair share of carries, especially if he performs these next two games.
3. Jason Trusnik.
The Dolphins’ special teams captain has made a name for himself at the linebacker position this preseason. Should the struggles of Dannell Ellerbe and Philip Wheeler continue, we could see Trusnik more on the defensive side of things. One thing I am already impressed with Trusnik is his ability to wrap up and finish a tackle.
4. Brian Hartline.
Ryan Tannehill’s favorite target has manages back to back 1,000 yard receiving yards the past two years, and arguably has the best hands on the team. I will be looking for Hartline’s connection with Tannehill and how much the two connect in this game. Hartline may have a little competition with rookie Jarvis Landry for Tannehill’s favorite target this season, which is a great problem to have.
5. Ryan Tannehill.
This will be the first chance Dolphins’ fans have to watch Tannehill put in more than a couple drives. RT17 and Bill Lazor have meshed well up to this point, and I will be looking at Tannehill’s position on the field when he throws the ball today. Will he be moved around the pocket? Will he have any designed running plays? I can’t wait to see the different ways Lazor utilizes his mobile and accurate signal caller.
FINS UP!