Why the prognosticators are wrong about the Dolphins
By Michael Fink
It’s always an interesting exercise to read the national opinion of the Miami Dolphins. For as long as I can remember we seem to get the short end of the stick from the national publications.
They’re wrong about the Miami Dolphins folks. Here’s why.
Some think it’s an evil plot. Some call it bias. In 1972 we were 16-0 and underdogs in the Super Bowl. Yes, it goes back that far.
While it’s certainly true most of the “national” media reside in the northeast and have allegiances with the Patriots, Jets, and Bills I do not think it is blind favoritism.
Miami is a long ways from the northeast. Even in the internet age, writers, and prognosticators in general just do not know the team as well as we do. Put simply, it’s ignorance.
So let’s talk about Vegas for a second. I think most everyone understands a number that Vegas puts out is totally unbiased in itself, however, it is greatly influenced by the general betting public. That is typically why lines move. For example, at some sports books, Miami is at 5.5 wins. What Vegas is hoping for is 50% bet the over and 50% bet the under. That’s how they make their money and we all know they make tons of money.
Who influences the betting public? You guessed it. The media.
So now that we have those basic principles out-of-the-way I am going to explain why the media is wrong.
Adam Gase – Finally the coach has his QB back and he can run HIS offense. He’ll be able to use 2 TE sets at his leisure. If he wants to go four wide he can do that as well. If running the ball is the best strategy Gase is equipped to give it a go. It is the first time in his tenure the options on offense are limitless.
Ryan Tannehill – He will return healthy and coming off arguably the best year he’s had. I am not his biggest fan, but he is far better than anyone on the roster last year and we won 6 games without him.
Raekwon McMillan – Watch out for this kid. He’s on a mission to prove himself.
Minkah Fitzpatrick – Pure beast. Arguably, the best first-round talent we’ve drafted since Jake Long. Maybe longer.
The receiving core. This will be in my opinion the deepest position group on the team. Maybe the fastest too.
Mike Gesicki – While it may take him a little while to spread his wings, wings he has. This is a legit red zone threat that will draw lots of coverage making everyone else’s job easier.
Backs who find the end zone. All of them.
Improved run blocking with the addition of Sitton and Kilgore. Davis and James should be a factor as well. Tunsil needs to get better. Maybe he will.
A little maturity in the CB position. Howard and McCain are a year older as is Lippett and Tankersly. That can only help their games.
Three concerns of mine are the kicker. I loved Parkey. He’ll be tough to replace.
The depth at LB and CB. If we have any kind of run on injuries in those position groups things could change.
Lastly, DT. No need to go into detail here. Those getting their opportunities need to deliver.
But, even with those concerns, I’d think this team is a lock to win more than 6 stinkin’ games. Don’t you?