5 things to watch from Miami Dolphins on Sunday

Sep 13, 2015; Landover, MD, USA; Miami Dolphins defensive back Brice McCain (24) intercepts a pass over Washington Redskins wide receiver Pierre Garcon (88) during the second half at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Brad Mills-USA TODAY Sports

BRICE MCCAIN

McCain had one of the best interceptions in Dolphins history and one of the best in the NFL. While his pick saved the Dolphins game the cornerback seemed out of his element when he played outside on the edge. McCain gave up a few too many pass completions because he played too far off the receiver. This shouldn’t have been a major issue once DeSean Jackson went out. Instead we saw Washington receivers floating in empty space. Bad throws by Kirk Cousins helped the cause.

I want to see more of McCain this week and I think he will have a better chance to see more time in the slot coverage this week where I think he is far better suited.

SECONDARY

The secondary as a whole played o.k. but they have to play much better. It’s good that they are starting the season against quarterbacks who are young and inexperienced as it will give them time to gel. Miami didn’t play much better when McCain was moved to the slot coverage position and Jamar Taylor was moved outside. As in previous years the Dolphins secondary gave up too many 3rd and longs in the passing game and that is a trend that has to stop if the Dolphins are going to find success later in the season against high powered offenses.

I expect to see marked improvement this week against Jacksonville and the combination of Allen Hurns and Allen Robinson should give the secondary a good quality opportunity to improve. The secondary looked good coming out the game thanks to the two interceptions, Brent Grimes and McCains, but they have to get better keeping receivers in front of them and the first down sticks. Miami plays too far off the receivers and need to be more physical. This is something I expect to see improvement in this week.