After last week’s 35-0 disaster vs. the Bills, suffice it to say that the Dolphins need to improve their performance in every facet of the game. First off, expect some personnel changes on the offensive line, although head coach Brian Flores has been tight-lipped about what the exact changes will be. Liam Eichenberg will likely be starting somewhere on the O-line, but we’ll have to wait until Sunday to see what other changes there will be.
Improved offensive line play is a must if Miami wants to take the pressure off of QB Jacoby Brissett. And that starts with establishing a run game. It’s time to put the ball in Myles Gaskin’s hands. He’s the Fins best running back, so give him the ball at least 15 times.
With a strong, or even semi-decent, run game, the Fins won’t have to pass over 40 times like they did last week. And if they don’t have to pass all the time, it will help keep the Raiders strong pass rush at bay.
But Miami will have to pass some and they will need to take some shots down field to loosen up the Raiders defense. Wide receiver Will Fuller will be making his first start as a member of the Dolphins and he is one of the best deep threats in the NFL, so they need to look for him downfield a few times.
Even more important than the run game, though, will be putting pressure on Raiders QB Derek Carr. Las Vegas’ running game has left much to be desired in the first two games hence it has been their passing game that has led them to their 2-0 start. As good as Miami’s secondary is, in order to slow down the Raiders’ passing game they will need to put constant pressure on Carr. The fact that Carr has a bit of an ankle injury makes it even more important to make him move around.
Miami’s pass rush has been disappointing in their first two games, so they need to confuse Carr with different looks, blitz more and get 1st round pick defensive end/linebacker Jaelan Phillips more involved.
The third thing Miami needs to do is come out with more energy. Be more aggressive. They have been emotionally flat the first two games.
So, run the ball. Rush the passer. And be aggressive from the first snap.
And, oh yeah, if Miami wants to win this week it will help if the Fins receivers don’t drop numerous passes and the team doesn’t commit 9 penalties like they did last week vs. Buffalo.
