Miami Dolphins: 10 observations from Week 2 win vs. Ravens

Miami Dolphins Week 2 Observations:

4. The team played undisciplined football in the first half

The first three quarters were a frustrating experience, and much of that can be credited to the lack of discipline from the team. Not only were there bundles of penalties called on Miami, but they seemed random and almost outlandish.

There was a tripping call, a 12-man in the formation call, a block in the back, and even an ineligible man downfield on a broken play. Things like that can happen early in the season to a first-year head coach, and McDaniel will certainly look to clean those mistakes up before the Dolphins hit the field against the Bills.

5. Has Xavien Howard lost a step?

Xavien Howard has long been the best and most important player on the Dolphins’ defense, but he didn’t look like his sharp, normal self on Sunday against the Ravens. He was the cover man on the 75-yard touchdown that began Baltimore’s offensive onslaught, getting burned by Rashod Bateman as the Ravens went up 14-0.

He still had a productive day and had a nice pass defended as the Dolphins were trying to mount a comeback, and unfortunately dropped an interception that would have likely gone for 6 and tied the game. There is no reason to panic about his production, yet, but we are so used to seeing Howard be such a dominant force and turnover machine, that it is odd to see him trailing a breakaway receiver or getting beat on out routes.