10 players Miami Dolphins need for playoff run
By Brian Miller
Aug 22, 2015; Charlotte, NC, USA; Carolina Panthers tackle Michael Oher (73) blocks Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Earl Mitchell (90) during the second quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jeremy Brevard-USA TODAY Sports
EARL MITCHELL
When people talk about the Dolphins defense they gravitate towards Ndamukong Suh and let’s face it they should. Suh is a vital member of the defensive line but Earl Mitchell is the guy that Miami needs to step up. We all know what Suh can do, but questions remain after that.
The questions are not difficult to answer. Last year Mitchell teamed with Jared O’drick and Randy Starks to form a line that faltered against the run as the season wore on. Mitchell is returning and needs to improve his run defense. With Suh next to him Mitchell will face far more one on one’s this season and in addition will not be a focal point of opposing offenses.
How will Mitchell elevates his game up front will help the Dolphins stop the gashing rushing attack we witnessed last year late in the season. Mitchell has the ability to play well and carry the line but he won’t have to this season, he only needs to play well enough to keep offenses from making big gains.
Through two pre-season games the Dolphins front line has done very well at stopping opposing offenses and Mitchell has been a big part of that. He needs to be if the Dolphins are going to have a top five defensive line in 2015.