Three key matchups for the Miami Dolphins against Atlanta
2. Austin Jackson and Miami’s offensive line vs Atlanta’s defensive line
For those of you that missed our offensive line review, our first team tackles (Austin Jackson in particular) had a disappointing outing in Chicago. Week one of the preseason isn’t time for panic just yet, but Miami’s tackles are in need of an encouraging performance.
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In particular, Jackson and Pankey both struggled mightily in passing sets. Jackson had the second-worst pass blocking grade on the team per PFF (31.8) only to be outdone by Adam Pankey. Atlanta will present a really great opportunity to see Jackson and the rest of the tackles bounce back.
That’s because no one will be facing off against Robert Quinn or Khalil Mack in Atlanta. Dante Fowler Jr. is likely to be Atlanta’s best pass rusher and while he was fresh off a 15 sack performance in 2019, his first season in Atlanta was disappointing. So disappointing in fact that he agreed to take a pay cut this past off season.
Outside of Fowler (who didn’t even play last week), there aren’t any standout edge rushers. Tuzar Skipper, Adetokunbo Ogundeji, and Jacob Tuioti-Mariner shouldn’t strike fear into any offensive tackles heart. If Jackson and the other first team tackles (assuming that isn’t reshuffled prior to the game) struggle to keep Tua clean against Atlanta, we can start to panic.
Note: the trade for Greg Little isn’t likely to be a major factor in this game. If he does play, I would be surprised if he does it with the first team.
Interior players
The other interesting matchup in the trenches will be the interior against Grady Jarrett (assuming he suits up). Jarrett would be the best interior defensive lineman this group has faced. Outside of Jarret, this isn’t a group full of standouts. The guards and centers should continue to showcase respectable play.