Miami’s lines are simply offensive
An offense that rarely gets into gear. A defense that cannot make stops when needed and that commits untimely penalties. The Dolphins’ play against the Titans showed just how poorly the team is performing. Any turnaround must begin on the offensive and defensive lines.
Take away two big plays against the Titans, and the Dolphins’ offense had little yardage or points to show for itself. The Dolphins’ defense indeed limited the Titans to field goals at times, but it rarely made the push to prevent the Titans from scoring at all. What made such a difference between two teams with identical records at the start? To answer that question, you need look no further than the Titans’ offensive line.
First, the Titans’ offensive line showed what the Dolphins are lacking on defense – a dominant defensive line. The Dolphins’ defense was pushed around all day. On running plays, the Titans were able to open holes that led to an average of 5.7 yards per carry. On passing plays, Marcus Mariota had enough time to complete 69% of his passes and not be sacked once. Even when he was pressured, Mariota was able to scramble and gain yardage because the Dolphins lacked containment.
The Titans’ offensive line also showed what the Dolphins are lacking on offense – a dominant offensive line. Yes, both Albert and Tunsil were out of the lineup with injuries. However, injuries and illnesses have been one consistent problem with this line. On Sunday, Pouncey finally returned to the lineup, three first teamers played, and Sunday’s other starters had played on the line for the Dolphins in the past. No matter. The line enabled the offense to gain only 51 yards on the ground, an average of 3 yards per carry. The line also gave up 6 sacks.
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Some fans are calling for a switch at quarterback, and Head Coach Adam Gase has said he will not make a switch this season. Dolphins fans should concur, but only because of the play of the offensive line. If the offensive line would do its job well, fans could see what Gase can do to improve Tannehill’s performance. Instead, with the offensive line failing to perform, it does not matter much whether Tannehill, a less mobile Matt Moore, or a less experienced Brandon Doughty are behind center. If the Dolphins are to compete going forward and are to see where the future of this team lies, the offensive and defensive lines need to greatly step up their performances.