Cardinals win in OT, 24-21

That's about all I've got to say about it.

Check back later.

Fins, Cardinals headed to OT tied at 21

The Cardinals scored an improbable touchdown on 4th down with less than 30 seconds left to tie the game at 21. This coming after an 80 yard TD pass from Ryan Tannehill to Brian Hartline to take the lead.

To OT we go.

Dolphins lead Cardinals 13-7 heading into 4th quarter

A Dan Carpenter missed field goal set Arizona up with great field position to begin the third quarter, and a Kevin Kolb to Larry Fitzgerald TD pass has made this a six point game.

To the fourth.

Fins lead Cardinals 13-0 at halftime

Upset alert in Arizona. After a Jovorskie Lane TD on 4th and goal, CB Sean Smith picked off Kevin Kolb near the end of the half to set up a Dan Carpenter field goal to put the Fins up 13-0.

The big story of the day has been the play of QB Ryan Tannehill, who is 15-21 for 219 yards. Davone Bess has been unstoppable, catching 5 passes for 86 yards, as has Brian Hartline, who has caught 6 passes for 110 yards.

Cameron Wake came into this game with no sacks. He now has three. Enough said.

Onto the third quarter we go.

Fins, Cards tied 0-0 after 1st quarter

Ryan Tannehill has come out throwing the ball, and the rookie's been sharp thus far. Tannehill is 8-10 for 86 yards, with Davone Bess catching three of those passes for 51 yards.

The Fins defense has forced two punts so far and is getting good pressure on QB Kevin Kolb.

Onto the 2nd quarter.

Reggie Bush set to go from Arizona; the inactives

Reggie Bush participated in a 45 minute workout this morning for GM Jeff Ireland and coach Joe Philbin.  Bush reportedly looked a bit tenative early on but looked to be ready to go by the end of the workout and will be active and starting today.

The inactives for the Fins include Pat Devlin, Marlon Moore, Austin Spitler, Will Yeatman, Tony McDaniel, and Rishard Matthews.

You will notice that CB Richard Marshall isn't on that list, so he's also active for today's game after missing most of practice this week with back problems.

Kickoff is an hour away from University of Phoenix Stadium, so don't forget to check back in for the live, quarter by quarter, blog!

Until then, Go Fins!

Gameday: Who has the edge? PLUS prediction

Kickoff is set for 4:05 today here on the East Coast as the Fins and Cardinals are set to go at it from Arizona.  Until then, lets get week four in the NFL started nice and early here at the Dolphinsider and break down today's game.  Enjoy.


WHO HAS THE EDGE:

When the Dolphins run the ball:  This is where the Fins are going to have to try and win this game today.  Reggie Bush is expected to play (I doubt he would have made the trip if he wasn't going to), but if he doesn't, rookie Lamar Miller and second year man Daniel Thomas must establish the run game.  The Cardinals defense ranks 18th in the league at stopping the run, and if the Dolphin offensive line performs like they have the previous three weeks then Miami's 4th ranked rushing attack should expose this throughout the day.  EDGE: Dolphins

When the Cardinals run the ball:  Miami must dominate in this category all day today, and they absolutely should.  The Fins boast the league's 3rd ranked rushing defense, allowing a measly 66 yards per game on the ground, and they haven't allowed a 100 yard rusher in 17 straight games.  This, on top of the fact that Beanie Wells is sidelined with a toe injury, should lead to a dominating day in the trenches for the Fins.  EDGE: Dolphins

When the Dolphins pass the ball:  Ryan Tannehill has struggled with accuracy through the first three weeks of the season, as he's only completed 52.9% of his passes. However, with that being said, the big thing today for Tannehill will be to NOT TURN THE BALL OVER.  The game last week took a turn for the worse when the rookie made a rookie-esque decision early in the third quarter and threw a pick six to LaRon Landry.  The Dolphins cannot afford to give the Cardinals any type of momentum like that today, especially on the road.  With a rookie QB, combined with Arizona's 9th ranked pass defense, the Fins must be cautious today through the air.  EDGE: Cardinals

When the Cardinals pass the ball:  Kevin Kolb should not scare this Dolphin defense. Carson Palmer and Matt Shaub pose greater threats than Kolb does, however, that being said, the Arizona QB does have something that should scare Miami: Larry Fitzgerald.  The Fins secondary could be in serious trouble today if Fitzgerald is not contained, something most teams cannot do, and I believe this is where the game will be won or loss.  The Cardinals passing offense ranks near the bottom of the league at 29th, while the Fins passing defense ranks 28th, so these are two teams who struggle through the air.  If the Fins can contain Fitzgerald, then they will be way ahead of the game.  EDGE: Even


PREDICTION:  I don't see this game being as far out of the Fins reach as many are predicting.  Based on statistics alone, Miami should be in this one till the end.  If they can shut down the Cardinal rushing attack, something I expect they'll do, and run the ball effectively on offense, something I also expect them to do, then this one could be tight heading into the fourth quarter.  However, the big unknown in this one will be with rookie QB Ryan Tannehill, and more importantly his protection of the football.  IF he can limit the turnovers, and when I say limit I mean none, then this could be an upset in the making for the Fins.  Unfortunately, I gotta see it to believe it.

Final: Dolphins 20 Cardinals 23


Come back later before kickoff to get any last minute updates from Arizona, including a full report on the status of RB Reggie Bush.  And don't forget to follow the live, quarter by quarter, blog throughout the game.  I should be able to do it this week, we'll see.

Go Fins!

Week four in the NFL: Picks and predictions

Welcome back, Ed Hochuli, God Bless you my friend.

Now lets do it:

Last week's record: 4-11 (yikes)

Overall record: 19-26

Minnesota @ Detroit: The Vikings are one of those surprise teams so far this year, especially after coming off last weeks upset over the 49ers.  Christian Ponder has looked in command and Adrian Peterson has been a work horse, however, I'm still not sold on them.  Give me the Lions.

Seattle @ St. Louis: The Seahawks were given a gift earlier this week against the Packers, but nevertheless, they're still an exciting team led by an exciting QB. However, so are the Rams, who are coming off an embarrassing loss in Chicago.  In a game featuring two up and coming quarterbacks, I'll take Sam Bradford and the Rams.

San Francisco @ New York Jets: The Jets are coming off an OT win in Miami, while the 49ers are recovering from a poor showing in a loss to Minnesota.  The New York defense will keep them in the game, especially at home, but that 49er defense will be too much for an already dysfunctional Jet offense.  Give me the 49ers.

San Diego @ Kansas City: In a battle of AFC West foes, you have the 1-2 Chiefs and the 2-1 Chargers.  The Chiefs are coming off a comeback win in New Orleans, while the Chargers are coming off a shalacking at the hands of the Falcons.  I think this one will be close, but in my experience, you don't go against the Chiefs at Arrowhead, so I'll go with them here.

Tennessee @ Houston: The Texans are one of three undefeated teams left in the NFL after a 31-25 win in Denver a week ago.  The Titans are coming off a win last week as well, their first of the year, a 44-41 OT thriller against Detroit.  However, I don't see them rattling off two in a row here, as that Houston defense will prove to be too much for young Jake Locker.  I'll take the Texans.

Carolina @ Atlanta: The Panthers have had extra time to prepare for this one after a Thursday night loss to the Giants in week three, a 36-7 route at home. The Falcons, on the other hand, don't know what it is to lose, as they remain undefeated after a trouncing in San Diego last Sunday.  While I do think the Panthers keep it close, I don't see them handing Matt Ryan and company their first loss of the year this week.  Give me the Falcons.

New England @ Buffalo: What is going on New England lately?  The Pats have dropped under .500 for the first time since 2003 after their Sunday night loss in Baltimore, and have looked inconsistent through the first three weeks of the season. The Bills, on the other hand, have rattled off two in a row after their week one routing in New York, and find themselves atop the AFC East.  However, while momentum is on their side, I don't see the Bills making it three in a row against the Patsies, especially since Tom Brady is playing with a sense of urgency.  Give me the Patriots.

Cincinnati @ Jacksonville: The Jags got their first win of the year last week at home against the Colts, a 22-17 victory, while the Bengals took care of business on the road with a 38-31 win over the Redskins. Maurice Jones Drew will pose problems for this Bengal defense, as he does with most defenses every week, but I don't see Blaine Gabbert keeping up with Andy Dalton.  Give me the Bengals.

Oakland @ Denver: Peyton Manning can't be too happy so far in Denver.  The 36 year old is coming off back to back losses to the Falcons and Texans, and while these are two of the three undefeated teams still remaining in the NFL, Manning can't be satisfied.  Luckily, this week, he will be facing a noticeably easier opponent in the Oakland Raiders, and while they are coming off a win last week against the Steelers, I think they're just what Manning and the Broncos need.  Give me Denver.

Washington @ Tampa Bay: RGIII has suffered back to back losses after that dramatic week one win in New Orleans, while the Bucs have done more of the same, losing to the Giants and Cowboys after defeating the Panthers in week one.  This one will be close, and high scoring from Tampa Bay, but in a game featuring two young QB's, I like the youngest to come out on top.  Give me the Skins.

New Orleans @ Green Bay: Might as well call this one the desperation game of the week, as the Saints are searching for their first win of the year, and the Packers are looking to rebound after the debacle in Seattle.  I expect this one to be a shootout, especially with these two offenses, so in a game that could be decided by which defense steps up, I'll take the Pack at home.

New York Giants @ Philadelphia: It's always a fun time when these two get together, and I expect this to be no different.  Both teams come in at 2-1 and locked in a tight battle for the NFC East with the Cowboys.  I believe Michael Vick and the Eagles will rebound in this one from a tough week three loss out in Arizona, and while it'll come down to the fourth quarter, I'll take team green over Eli and company.

Chicago @ Dallas:  Both these teams enter this game featuring 2-1 records, and both are coming off week three wins.  The Cowboys have, to little surprise, been highly inconsistent this year, while the Bears, despite a hiccup in Green Bay, have benefited from a easy schedule.  In a Monday night primetime game, in the home of America's team, I like the Cowboys to put a smile on Jerry Jones' face and come out on top.


Remember to check back tomorrow morning for all the pre-game analysis, including my pick, to get you ready for the Fins 4:05 kickoff with the Cardinals!

Until then, Go Fins!

Recipe for an upset may be closer than Fins think; other notes

The Arizona Cardinals know how the Dolphins feel going into this weekends game, as just two weeks ago, they were in a precariously similar situation.  Virtually nobody picked them to go into New England and upset Tom Brady and the Patriots, yet, low and behold, they did.  They traveled across country, defied Vegas, defied the double digit spread, and got one of those "statement" wins I hit on earlier this week.

Isn't it strange how quickly the tides turn in the NFL?

Enter the Miami Dolphins.

The line may not be quite as big (6.5 as of yesterday), and the venue may not be Gillette Stadium (although the Cardinals have won SEVEN in a row at home), but for the Miami Dolphins, they must use the similarities to their advantage.  If the Fins want to pull of an upset like this, on the road, against an undefeated team, they should look no further than across the field at the Arizona Cardinals.

And here are the notes I would take:

1) Win the sack battle.  In that week two upset, the Cardinal defense took down Tom Brady four times, while QB Kevin Kolb was only sacked twice.  If the Fins can take the passing game out of the Cardinal offense and force them to play into their strength, the run defense, then the mood of this game will change in a hurry.

2) Get off the field on third down.  The Pats converted 33.3% of their third downs in that week two game, and this did two things; kept Tom Brady and that offense off the field, and didn't allow that Pats defense to get their breath on the sidelines.  For the Fins, anytime you can keep Larry Fitzgerald off the field, you're ahead of the game.

3) Use special teams or defense to change momentum.  In Arizona's case, it was a blocked punt deep in New England territory early in the third quarter with the Cardinals trailing 9-6.  After that, they would punch it in to take the lead and wouldn't look back. On Sunday, whether it be an interception for a touchdown, a blocked punt, or a kick return to the house, the Fins must find a way to turn momentum in their favor, especially on the road.

Now, I'm not saying that if the Dolphins do all these things they'll get the upset, in-fact, they could perfectly execute each one and still come up short.  But in a game like this, when everything is stacked against you, finding a recipe for success is hard to do, and luckily for the Fins, they may have found one just fifty yards across the field.

Who knows?


Other Notes:

• The big talk out of Miami this week has been the status of Reggie Bush. The star running back practiced in full this morning, and according to Omar Kelly of the Sun Sentinel, Bush was moving well and appears to be ready for Sunday's game.

• The other injury concern for the Fins has been cornerback Richard Marshall, who has been nursing a back injury.  Marshall missed all of Thursday's practice, however, he practiced in full this morning and should also be a go for Sunday.  If not, Nolan Carroll and Jimmy Wilson will be next in line to replace him.

• The Dolphins will be heading out to Arizona today, a day earlier then they usually leave for away games, in order to adjust to the three hour time difference.  The team will conduct a walk through tomorrow afternoon.

• LB Karlos Dansby is returning to Arizona for the first team since joining the Miami Dolphins three seasons ago.  He spent six years with the Cardinals, including a trip to the Super Bowl in 2008.  “It’s definitely something I’ve been looking forward to,” Dansby said. “Guys that are there won’t let me forget about it. They remind me every chance I get.”

Thats all for now, check back later! 

  

Parity-filled NFL giving Miami Dolphins hope, but latest loss has them walking on thin ice

The one thing the Miami Dolphins have going for them right now is parity.  The NFL is nearly a month into its marathon of a season, and so far, the usual powerhouses are experiencing a power outage.

Green Bay Packers: 1-2

New England Patriots: 1-2

Pittsburgh Steelers: 1-2

New Orleans Saints: 0-3

Denver Broncos (yes, a Peyton Manning led team should be considered a powerhouse, no matter his age): 1-2

And then you have the young, inexperienced, highly inconsistent, Miami Dolphins, also at 1-2.  They looked lost in Houston.  They looked unstoppable against Oakland.  And then, they looked like a little bit of everything against the New York Jets.

And unfortunately, that loss, the heartbreaker to the Jets, has this team on thin ice.

Thin, thin ice.

The Miami Dolphins must now play with a sense of urgency, because this youthful bunch, who at one point on Sunday featured three rookies on the offensive side of the ball, face a series of tests in the next two weeks that could send them home at 1-4.

At the Arizona Cardinals and Cincinnati Bengals, two teams, unfortunately, whose power is anything but out.  In-fact, after three weeks, they're all but running the NFL power grid!  Lets start with Sunday's game against Arizona.  Not only are they 3-0 this season, with wins over Seattle, New England, and Philadelphia, but they are 10-2 dating back to week eight of last season, not to mention that seven of those wins have come at home.

Ok, you say, well at least we have Reggie Bush, he always gives us a chance.  True, very true, but the star running back's status is up in the air for Sunday's game, and even if he does play, is he actually going to be 100%?

Like I said, thin, thin ice.

Let's jump to next week's game, a meeting with the Cincinnati Bengals at good ol' Paul Brown Stadium.  After a week one loss to the Baltimore Ravens, Andy Dalton and company have won back to back games, defeating the lowly Browns and then the up and coming Redskins.  This week, they play the Jacksonville Jaguars, and while I won't say it's a guarantee, there's a good chance these Bengals could be 3-1 when they welcome in the Miami Dolphins next Sunday.

Feel it breaking yet?

However, like I said, the Fins do have one thing on their side.  Parity.  By my account, winning just one, JUST ONE, of these games keeps this Miami team in it.  Coming out of week five 2-3, rather then 1-4, means everything for this team.  Not only does it put them right into the AFC playoff hunt coming home to face the St. Louis Rams, but it also gives them a signature, confidence inspiring win on the road.

This means everything for rookies such as Ryan Tannehill and Joe Philbin.  It gives Tannehill the confidence that this team, his team, can compete and beat anybody. And it gives Philbin, the first year head coach, the confidence that his plan, his way of doing things, is working.

Coming out of these games 1-1, folks, means everything.

Because parity can only carry a team so far.

And if the ice breaks on these Miami Dolphins, I'm not sure parity can do anything but wave goodbye as they sink.

A tough two weeks indeed.

Five keys revisted; The latest on Reggie Bush

I'm going to make this quick and painless, because the only way to move on from yesterday's gut wrenching loss to the New York Jets is to turn the page and look to this weeks' matchup with the Arizona Cardinals.

Lets get to it.

1.  Protect Ryan Tannehill.  The Dolphins offensive line gave up zero sacks yesterday, so in that respect they did a good job of protecting the rookie QB.  Was he under a lot of pressure at times in the pocket? Absolutely, but give credit to Tannehill for getting rid of the ball.  That being said, when you don't give up a sack to a Rex Ryan led defense, it should always be considered a success.  Grade: B

2.  Win the turnover battle.  Up and down day in this department for the Miami Dolphins.  Defensively, they intercepted Mark Sanchez twice, once in the endzone and once on the first drive of the game that led to an eventual Miami touchdown.  However, LaRon Landry picked off Ryan Tannehill at the beginning of the third quarter and returned it for a TD to tie the game at 10.  The very next drive, Daniel Thomas fumbled the football and gave it right back to the Jets.  The Fins must break this troubling trend of back to back turnovers, or it's going to grow into a huge problem.  Grade: C

3.  Pressure Mark Sanchez.  Simply not good enough.  The only sack of the game for the Miami Dolphins came in the 2nd quarter when Jared Odrick took down Mark Sanchez on a crucial third down from inside Miami territory, but other than that Sanchez had way to much time to throw the football yesterday.  Cameron Wake had a chance a couple of times but failed to record a sack, same goes for Randy Starks, but when it comes down to it, Mark Sanchez just had too much time in the pocket.  Grade: D

4.  Do not get Tebowed.  People may argue that the Fins did a great job of this, because when looking at the stat line, two carries for 0 yards, they did.  But, I believe the game took a major turn when the Jets ran a fake punt with Tebow deep inside Miami territory, and, of course, Tebow converted.  The Jets went on to kick a field goal on that drive, but one has to wonder what the outcome would have been if the Fins had got a stop there.  Grade: B-

5.   Continue the excellent special teams play.  "and I'll be willing to bet this could be the difference maker today."  I said it yesterday, and boy, do I wish I wrong.  Dan Carpenter, who teammate Davone Bess later said was automatic, had one of his worse games in a Dolphins uniform yesterday.  Not only did the kicker miss a field goal in the fourth quarter that would of put the Fins up by seven, but he missed the backbreaking 48 yarder in overtime that would have sealed the deal.  On top of that, the Fins blocked the eventual game winner on the following drive, only to have it negated by a Joe Philbin timeout.  No, I don't blame Philbin for calling it, the stats dictate that it's the right call in that situation and I can't blame Philbin for that.  Bad, bad day for special teams.  Grade: F


I will have more analysis to come later, so check back.


Update on Reggie Bush

Sources have told ESPN's Adam Schefter that Bush suffered "no structural damage" from yesterdays' blow to the knee late in the second quarter, and that Bush could play Sunday depending on practice this week.  This is obviously a huge relief to the Miami Dolphins, as Reggie Bush changes the entire dynamic of the Fins offense.

Remember to check back later folks.  More analysis to come.

Dolphins, jets set to kickoff; the inactives

The Fins and Jets are set to kickoff in just under an hour from Sun Life Stadium. The key for the Dolphins today? Run the ball, don't turn it over, and play solid defense.

The inactives are Marlon Moore, Michael Egnew, Nate Garner, Will Yeatman, Pat Devlin, Rishard Matthews, and Ray Feinga.

Remember, there will be no live blog today, but check back after the game for all post game analysis.

Until then, go Fins!

Gameday: Five keys to a Dolphins victory PLUS prediction

It's gameday!  The Miami Dolphins and New York Jets are set to kickoff in just a couple hours from Sun Life Stadium.  Until then, check out what I think are the five keys to a Fins win.  Enjoy.

1. Protect Ryan Tannehill.  This is absolutely vital today for the Miami Dolphins, especially with Rex Ryan calling the plays.  There will be blitzes thrown at the rookie QB from every angle, on every play, all day long.  Giving Tannehill time to throw the ball, and more importantly, time to make a good decision, will be the difference maker in this game.  This has to be a collective effort from the Dolphins offense as well. From the offensive line, to the tight ends, to the running backs, protecting the rookie QB will be a must.

2.  Win the turnover battle.  You may be sick of hearing me say this week in and week out, but folks, nine times out of ten the team who does this wins the football game. The Fins offense did a good job last week of not turning the ball over, but the defense, excluding the interception late in the game, failed to create turnovers when it mattered. If this is the case once again today, it could be a huge problem.  Mark Sanchez is known for his questionable decision making, as we the saw last time these two met in this very stadium, and the Fins defense must expose of this.

3.  Pressure Mark Sanchez.  How do you accomplish number two?  You accomplish number three.  Cameron Wake missed three potential sacks last week, and while the Fins got away with it, this must not continue today.  Wake, along with Randy Starks and Jared Odrick, must make life miserable today for QB Mark Sanchez.  This will lead to incompletions, interceptions, and an all around bad day for the Jets offense.

4.  Do not get Tebowed.  If you think Tony Sparano hasn't put together a Tim Tebow gameplan for today, then you are absolutely out of your mind.  In-fact, I'll go ahead and say that we'll see more of Tim Tebow today then we've seen since he's been a Jet.  I expect anything from the wildcat, to gimmicks, to third down runs with the polarizing back up QB today, and the Fins defense must be ready for it.  They cannot allow Tebow to come in and spark momentum for that Jets offense, or it could be a long day. Don't think so?  Just look at what happened last year when Tebow came to town as a Bronco.  The defense must be Tebow ready today.

5.  Continue the excellent special teams play.  With the exception of one long kick return last week by the Oakland Raiders, the Fins special teams play has been superb. Punter Brandon Fields was a HUGE part of last weeks victory, as he constantly pinned the Raiders deep in their own territory, and with the two defenses today I expect field position to play a huge part in this one.  Kick returner Marcus Thigpen had a big return in week one vs Houston and continued that last week with a couple nice returns. This must continue today to not only set the Fins offense up in good field position, but also to put a spark into this football team.  People tend to forget just how important special teams can be, but I'm not one of them, and I'll be willing to bet this could be the difference maker today.


PREDICTION:  This is by far the biggest game of the season today.  Hands down. The division lead is on the line, bragging rights are on the line, and, as I hit on earlier in the week, the trust of a fanbase is on the line.  I expect the Fins to come out of the gates strong, riding the momentum from last week's victory, but it must not stop there. They can't come out and score a touchdown and then disappear for the next two quarters. They must constantly put pressure on a vulnerable Jets team, both offensively and defensively, and QB Ryan Tannehill must respond to adversity, because I can promise you there will be a lot of that today.  The Fins may be underdogs, but I don't see it. They're at home, riding momentum from last week, and looking to prove it was no fluke.

Final: Jets 20 Dolphins 24


Remember there will be no live blog today, but check back before game time for the inactive list and any last minute updates.

Until then, Go Fins!

Week three in the NFL: Picks and predictions

Lets get to it.

Week 2 record:  6-8

Overall record:  14-14

St. Louis @ Chicago:  The Rams looked good last week.  The Bears looked really, really bad.  Jay Cutler was harassed by the Packers defense all night and threw his usual temper tantrum on the sidelines en route to a pitiful performance.  For the Rams, QB Sam Bradford has been impressive so far this year, posting a QB rating of 112.4 through two games and showing command in Jeff Fisher's offense.  However, with all that being said, I think Cutler and the Bears bounce back this week at home, but it's close.

Cincinnati @ Washington:  This will be a good test for RGIII and the up and coming Washington Redskins, as the rookie sensation makes his home debut against the Bengals.  The Skins could easily be 2-0 if not for a certain WR losing his cool in last weeks loss in St. Louis, however, they still come home 1-1 and pose one of the leagues premiere offenses through the first two weeks.  On the other side of the field, Andy Dalton and the Bengals come in sporting a 1-1 record as well, with their first win coming last week against Cleveland.  However, I've been unimpressed so far with Cincinnati, and have been highly impressed with the Washington Redskins, and based on that I'll take RGIII to out duel Dalton in his home opener.

Detroit @ Tennessee:  How bad have the Titans looked so far this season?  Better question, how beyond awful has Chris Johnson looked?  I expected Tennessee to be competitive this season, and on top of that I expected a bounce back year from Johnson, but so far neither of those have come even close to happening.  The Lions are coming off a week two loss in San Francisco and have so far looked very inconsistent this season; In-fact, if not for a Matthew Stafford led comeback in week one they could easily be 0-2 right now.  That being said, I stupidly picked Tennessee last week in an upset, and will not make that mistake again.  Give me the Lions.

Kansas City @ New Orleans:  Has there even been more of a must win game this early in the season then this one for the 0-2 Saints?  Drew Brees hasn't looked quite like himself through the first two weeks, and it's had a direct impact on the Saints offense, which has been a model of inconsistency.  For the Chiefs, back to back weeks of poor play -blowout losses to Atlanta and Buffalo- have them in a similar situation.  In a game that could be titled the desperation game of the week, I'll take the Saints in a season saving win at home.

San Francisco @ Minnesota:  The 49ers have looked elite, especially defensively, through the first two weeks of this young season.  They went into Green Bay and had their way with Aaron Rodgers and the Packers, and then followed that up with a win last Sunday Night in their home opener against Detroit.  The Vikings could be 2-0 right now if not for an Adam Vinatieri field goal last week, and have so far benefited from a light schedule (Jaguars and Colts).  However, that comes to an end this week, and so to will Minnesota's .500 record.  Give me the Niners.

Buffalo @ Cleveland:  The Browns, and more importantly Brandon Weeden, looked much better a week ago then they did in their season opening loss to the Eagles, and seem to be a respectable team for the time being.  The Bills had a big bounce back win last week against the Chiefs after their season opening debacle in New York, and seem to have found a gem in RB C.J. Spiller, who leads the league in rushing yards.  If the Browns have any chance in winning this game containing Spiller will be a must, and I, for one, don't see that happening.  I'll take the Bills.

Tampa Bay @ Dallas:  Another season, and once again, Tony Romo and the Boys are so far inconsistent.  What a surprise.  After their opening night triumph over the Giants, Dallas laid an egg last week in Seattle, losing 27-7 to Russell Wilson and the Seahawks.  For Tampa Bay, controversy has surrounded coach Greg Schiano this week following last weeks dicey ending in New York, and it will be interesting to see how his team responds.  I expect this to be a closely contested game, and while I could see the Bucs pulling it out, I'll take the Cowboys.

Jacksonville @ Indianapolis:  Coming off a week two route at the hands of the Houston Texans, the Jaguars head to the Lucas Oil Dome to face the chosen one himself, Andrew Luck.  Speaking of Luck, the rookie is coming off his first career victory last week against the Vikings, and looked impressive, especially in leading the offense down the field on the final drive to put them into field goal range.  This should be a competitive game from both sides of the football, and even though Blaine Gabbert's "buttocks" is in-fact ok, I'll take the Colts.

Atlanta @ San Diego:  The Falcons have looked unstoppable through the first two weeks of the season, and have their offense and defense clicking like never before. The Chargers have also looked impressive through the first two weeks, although they have not played nearly the talent Atlanta has, and should have a better idea of where they are as a team after this game.  While both teams are strong on the offensive side of the football, I think the defenses will be the deciding factor in this one, and going on that I'll take the Falcons on the road.

Philadelphia @ Arizona:  When do we start to take this Cardinal team seriously?  Yes, they are coming off an upset win in New England, and do pose a 2-0 record, but I, for one, am not quite sold yet.  This game will truly make me a believer, as they welcome in the 2-0 Eagles, who are also coming off an impressive week two win against the Ravens.  Michael Vick's decision making improved last week, although it still has me scratching my head at times, but that Eagle defense looks much improved this season.  Based on that, and the speed of the offense, I'll take Andy Reid's Eagles in this one.

Pittsburgh @ Oakland:  The Raiders were outplayed and outclassed last week in Miami, while the Steelers handedly defeated the New York Jets.  Big Ben will pose problems for this Raider defense, and Carson Palmer will struggle against an always good Steeler defense, and going on those two assumptions, I'll take the Steelers in a relatively easy win.

Houston @ Denver:  Watching Peyton Manning last week was brutal.  The future hall-of-famer struggled in the first quarter in Atlanta and never fully recovered as the Broncos dropped the Monday Night contest.  Houston, on the other hand, has cruised through the first two weeks of the season, and has benefited from a relatively easy schedule.  However, that will change this week, especially being on the road.  Peyton has always had great success against the Texans, but this isn't the same team he faced for years in Indianapolis, and he could very well struggle in this one with that defense.  However, in my experience, Peyton Manning doesn't get fooled twice in a row, and on that I'll take the Broncos.

New England @ Baltimore:  The Ravens have looked good in the first two weeks, despite their loss last weekend, while the Pats have looked widely inconsistent, both on offense and defense.  Tom Brady has struggled, and that doesn't figure to improve against a defense like Baltimore's (although something tells me it will), while the Pats receiver situation has gotten so bare that they called upon Deion Branch yet again to help them out.  For the Ravens, Joe Flacco has looked like a QB ready to make that leap to the next level, and has that offense clicking on all cylinders.  However, while I do think Flacco and RB Ray Rice will give that Patriots defense problems throughout the night, something tells me that the Pats will come out on top in this one.

Green Bay @ Seattle:  You've got to hand it to Russell Wilson, the kid is a gamer, all 5'11 of him.  The Seahawks are coming off a convincing 27-7 win last week against the Cowboys, and seem to be rallying behind their rookie QB.  For the Packers, they haven't quite put it all together yet, have they?  Offensively, Aaron Rodgers hasn't quite seemed like himself yet, and now has his tight end's agent calling him out on his leadership.  Defensively for Seattle, they can beat anybody, and will need a near perfect game on Monday night to take down the Packers.  While I think there's a chance of that happening, especially given the look of the Green Bay offense through the first two weeks, I still just don't think that Seattle offense can keep up.  Give me the Packers.


Remember to check in tomorrow morning for all the pre-game news and analysis for the Fins/Jets showdown in Miami, and of course, I'll offer up my prediction.  Unfortunately, there will be no live blog tomorrow afternoon, but don't forget to tune in after the game for all the postgame coverage!

Until tomorrow morning, as always, I bid you farewell.

With latest victory, Fins must start new saga, not another sequel

They teased us two years ago as well.

Flashback to week three of the 2010 season, when the then 2-0 Miami Dolphins welcomed the 1-1 New York Jets to Sun Life Stadium for a primetime battle on the National Stage.  South Florida was back on the football map again, as the Fins, led by Chad Henne and Tony Sparano, had opened up the season with back to back wins on the road.  We all thought they'd finally figured it out.  We were talking division title, we were talking playoffs, we were talking, dare I say it, Super Bowl.

We were wrong.  Very, very wrong.

The Fins lost that game.  Then they lost the next one.  Then, before you knew it, we were staring another losing season, 7-9, right in the eye.  They sucked us in and then spit us out, something the Tony Sparano era was famous for.

Now back to the 2012 Miami Dolphins, who find themselves in a precariously similar situation.  They have our attention again after Sunday's impressive win.  The Jets are in town.  It's week three.  And yes, Tony Sparano will be in the house.

Eerily similar, no?

However, let's hope the similarities stop there.  In-fact, I'm going to bring it one step further and say they MUST stop there.

Because, unfortunately, we've seen this movie before.  Heck, Chad Henne was not only the original film, but the two sequels after it.  This time around, for the sake of a fan base dying to see the light, things must be different.

Oh yes, Sunday's game is a big one.

Not because it's the Jets, not because these two teams are tied for the division lead, and not because Tony Sparano is on the other sideline.  But because a win on Sunday shows progress.  A win on Sunday shows that things are different this time around, that this organization, one which has teased us so many times before, may finally be serious this time around.

Think about what it would do for Ryan Tannehill.  Think about what it would do for Joe Philbin.  Think about what it would do for those empty orange seats, who week in and week out beg for some company. Two years ago fans got sucked in, we fell for it, and we, once again, were let down. It won't be that easy this time around, nor should it be. Our shell has been hardened by years of disappointment, and it's going to take more than just four quarters of winning football to break it.  

This time around we need to see more.  We need to see a statement win, not one that just gets our attention like last week's did.

Because we've seen this movie before.

And this time around, the Dolphins must show us that this is, in-fact, a new saga.

And not just another heartbreaking sequel.

 

Video: Joe Philbin locker room address PLUS some stats through week two

Some stats through week two as we enter Jets week:

• The Dolphins defense leads the league in average yards allowed per rush with 2.2, and is ranked fourth overall against the rush.

• Speaking of the running game, the offense is second overall in the NFL with 171 yards per game on the ground, trailing only the Bills at 198.

• Three of the top five running backs in the NFL belong to the AFC East: C.J. Spiller is number one with 292 yards, Reggie Bush is second with 241 yards, and the Patriots' Stevan Ridley is fifth with 196 yards.  Who would have guessed that?

• Here are the five rookie quarterbacks QB rating through week two: RGIII 111.6, Russell Wilson 81.1, Andrew Luck 75.2, Ryan Tannehill 62.6, and Brandon Weeden 57.6.

• Yesterday was the Fins first home opening win since the 2005 opener against the Broncos, a 34-10 victory.

• The Dolphins are .500 for the first time since week 15 of the 2010 season.

• Dan Marino's first career TD pass was to tight end Joe Rose, who wore number 80.  Ryan Tannehill's first career TD pass?  Tight end Anthony Fasano.  His number?  80.

• The Fins offense ranks 13th overall in the NFL with 363.5 yards per game, and 18th with 22.5 points per game.

• Special team wise, the Fins rank third in average yards per return with 20.1, and 9th in average kick return yards with 25.8.

I leave you with coach Joe Philbin addressing the locker room after his first career victory as a head coach.  Hopefully the first of many.  Enjoy.

Five keys to a victory REVISITED

1.  Do not turn the ball over.  Mission accomplished for the Fins offense today in this category, as they turned the ball over ZERO times.  Ryan Tannehill posted a QB rating of 91, threw no interceptions, and had two touchdowns (1 running and 1 passing). Reggie Bush and Lamar Miller put up big numbers and held onto the football, as did the Fins receiving core.  Grade: A+

2.  Create turnovers on defense.  Yes, they only had one interception, and yes, it was on the Raiders last drive when the game was well out of hand, but it was surely a start. The run defense was stifling, the pass defense was bending all day but never broke, and the defensive line finally started putting some pressure on Carson Palmer in the second half.  The defense does need to start creating more turnovers earlier in the ballgame, but for today, one was enough.  Grade: B

3.  Score touchdowns in the redzone.  Sensational job of this today.  The Fins scored five touchdowns, two by Reggie Bush, one by Ryan Tannehill, one by Anthony Fasano, and one by Lamar Miller.  Only two of these came when in the redzone, the Fasano catch and the Tannehill run, but both were huge plays for the Fins.  The Tannehill run put the Fins on the board on their first drive, and the Fasano catch made it a two touchdown game at the time.  No field goals today for the Dolphins, and I'm sure Dan Carpenter is perfectly fine with that.  Grade: A+

4.  Correct the tipped ball issue.  Number of tipped balls today?  Zero.  I'd say it's been fixed.  Grade: A+

5.  Convert on third downs.  The Dolphins offense converted 9-17 third down plays, thats 53%.  The Raiders offense?  1-12, thats .8%.  Enough said.  Grade: A+


The sun is shining in Miami.

Miami Dolphins pummel Raiders 35-13 en route to first win of 2012

Well, they responded. Reggie Bush ran the ball 26 times, a career high, for 172 yards, and two touchdowns. Ryan Tannehill was very good, going 18-30 for 200 yards and two touchdowns (1 rushing), and Brian Hartline had a career day, catching 9 balls for 111 yards.

The Fins defense was outstanding all day, holding the Raiders to only one touchdown and a mere 23 yards on the ground.

Oh yeah, and rookie head coach Joe Philbin earned his first career win.

The sun is shining in Miami.

Come back later for complete analysis as the Miami Dolphins defeat the Oakland Raiders, 35-13!

Dolphins lead Raiders 21-10 after third quarter

Reggie Bush has put the Fins offense on his shoulders in this one. He broke four tackles en route to a 23 yard TD run, then out ran the entire Raiders defense on the next drive for a 65 yard TD run. Reggie has over 120 yards on the day.

Defensively, the Fins have contained Carson Palmer and the Raiders, however, they are driving inside the Fins 20 as the third quarter comes to an end.

On to the fourth we go!

Raiders lead Fins 10-7 at halftime

This game has turned into a battle of the punters as both offenses have gone stagnant. Ryan Tannehill simply does not have near enough time to throw and has been harassed the entire quarter.

Defensively, the Fins continue to bend but not break. Carson Palmer has lit it up, throwing for over 200 yards, but the Dolphin defense continues to hold their own. They must, MUST, put pressure on Palmer in the second half or he could have a huge day.

Sebastian Janikowski kicked a field with 46 seconds left to put up the only points of the quarter.

Onto the third we go.

Dolphins, Raiders tied 7-7 after 1st quarter

Ryan Tannehill and the Dolphins offense has had their way with the Raider defense so far, especially on the opening drive of the game, where Tannehill led the offense down the field and scampered in the endzone for a two yard TD run.

Defensively, the Fins played great for the first 14:40 of the first quarter, until Carson Palmer hit Mike Goodson on a swing out pass where Goodson would then take it the distance to tie the game at seven.

Onto the second we go.

Dolphins, Raiders set to kickoff from soggy Sun Life Stadium (with inactives)

We are a little over 30 minutes from kickoff down in Miami as the Fins and the Raiders set to get it going today.

Here are the inactives: The Dolphins will be without Anthony Armstrong, who was doubtful with a hamstring injury. He is inactive. Other Miami inactives are Michael Egnew, Will Yeatman, Tony McDaniel, Ray Feinga, Daniel Thomas and Pat Devlin.

Weather wise in Miami it had been raining on and off all morning, so expect a steamy one today.

One last note, the Dolphins will be in the all white uniforms today, while the Raiders will be in the black and silver.

Remember to follow the quarter by quarter blog!

Until then, go Fins!

Gameday: Five keys to a Dolphins victory

1. Do not turn the ball over.  This is, by far, the most critical thing for the Miami Dolphins today.  Joe Philbin said it himself before and after Sunday's loss to Houston, turning the ball over will cost you football games. The Fins were in the game last week, in-fact, they were controlling it, until they turned the ball over not once, not twice, but four consecutive times.  After that the game was essentially over, and if that happens again this week you can bet on more of the same.  Ryan Tannehill must protect the football, same goes for Reggie Bush, same goes for anybody on the Fins offense who touches it.

2. Create turnovers on defense.  This comes in a close second to number one.  As important as it is to not turn the ball over, it's equally important to create turnovers. Not only will this give the Fins a much needed momentum boost, but it will also give the offense a short field to work with, which is crucial with a young QB like Ryan Tannehill.

3. Score touchdowns in the redzone.  If and when Ryan Tannehill gets that short field to work with, he must, MUST, put the ball in the endzone.  The Fins failed to score a touchdown on every redzone appearance last week, and that includes multiple trips in the 4th quarter.  This cannot happen again today, and that also includes field goals. With the way this offense looks lately, scoring touchdowns on the few opportunites they may get could make or break this game.  The Fins must find a way to put up six, not three, or they could be staring 0-2 right in the face when it's all said and done.

4. Correct the tipped ball issue.  This has been the topic of the week out of Miami, and it could potentially turn into a huge problem if the Fins don't show that it's been corrected today.  Whether it's limiting the number of three step dropbacks, or Ryan Tannehill doing a better job of finding passing lanes, or the offensive line keeping the defenders hands down, or a collection of all three, the Dolphins must correct this issue.

5. Convert on third downs.  The Dolphins were an embarrassing 2/10 last week on third downs, and not only does this kill drives, but it forces your defense back on the field, and this is especially crippling if you go three and out.  Ryan Tannehill and Mike Sherman must find ways to convert these third downs.  From the offensive coordinator, to the offensive line, to the QB, the Fins must do a better job of this today.

Prediction:  I like this matchup for the Fins.  I think Ryan Tannehill looks much better than he did last week, especially when it comes to finding key receivers like Brian Hartline and Davone Bess. Reggie Bush had a big game last year against this defense and I think he goes over 100 yards again today.  The defense needs to continue to stuff the run game and force turnovers, and if they do I expect the Fins to come out of today with a "W."

Raiders 17 Dolphins 20

Remember to follow the live blog today, and check back right before game time for any last minute updates.  Until then, go Fins!

Week two picks and predictions; Latest injury news heading into home opener

Lets get to it:

Kansas City @ Buffalo:  The Bills are coming off a disgusting loss to the Jets a week ago, while the Chiefs didn't fare much better at home against Atlanta.  Both these teams figure to be in the wild card mix down the stretch, but starting 0-2 would put a serious dent into those aspirations, and with that on the line I'll take the Bills at home in a close one.

Baltimore @ Philadelphia:  The Ravens looked poised for a big year in their Monday night blowout win against the Bengals.  The offense, led by Joe Flacco, was nearly unstoppable, and the defense was its usual juggernaut self.  The real test will come in this matchup, as Michael Vick and the Eagles will be looking to redeem themselves after an ugly week one against the Browns.  However, I think the Ravens step up to the challenge, on the road, and really establish themselves in this one as one of the leagues' premiere teams.

Tampa Bay @ New York Giants:  The defending champs fell flat in their home opener against the Cowboys 10 days ago, emphasis on the 10, while the Bucs came out victorious in their opening contest against Carolina.  However, I don't see them having the same results in this one as the Giants have a bad taste to get out of their mouth, and they've had over a week off to figure out how to get rid of it.  It's never good to give a team like this extra days to prepare; like I said, emphasis on the 10.  Give me the Giants.

Arizona @ New England:  I'll keep it short.  Pats at home vs a cross country opponent with shaky QB play.  Enough said, Patriots.

Houston @ Jacksonville:  The Jags looked like an improved team last week.  That defense, combined with Maurice Jones Drew, always gives them a chance, albeit a slight one, to win.  However, The Texans have a pretty good defense of their own, and the weapons on that offense will give the Jags fits all day long.  Give me the Texans.

New Orleans @ Carolina:  Cam Newton looked bad last week, as did the entire Saints defense, so both parties will be looking to bounce back in this one.  I think both will play much better, and I could see this one coming down to the final minutes, but when it comes down to it, I just don't see Drew Brees dropping two in a row.  Give me the Saints.

Cleveland @ Cincinnati:  Is Brandon Weeden playing?  He is?  That makes it easy then, give me the Bengals.

Minnesota @ Indianapolis:  Andrew Luck had his ups and downs in last week's loss to Chicago and is one of four rookies still looking for their first win.  On the other side, the Vikings had an improbable come from behind win in week one and look to start 2-0 for the first time since 2009.  In what should be a relatively close game, I like the Vikings to hand Luck his second loss, however, the rookie looks better.

Washington @ St. Louis:  The Rams nearly pulled off the upset last week in Detroit, and while they couldn't quite do it Jeff Fisher clearly has this team going in the right direction.  On the other side of the ball, the Redskins took the entire league by surprise last week in New Orleans, thanks in large part to rookie sensation Robert Griffin III.  In what could be one of the more entertaining games of the week, I expect the Rams to slow down the momentum built from last week's win, and take down the Skins.

Dallas @ Seattle:  Russell Wilson had an up and down performance last week, and had a chance to leave Arizona with a win but came up about ten yards short.  This week they welcome in Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys, who are coming off an emotional week one win in New York.  A lot of people expect a letdown for the Boys in this one, I, however, am not one of them.  In a game that could come down to the fourth quarter, I like Dallas to leave the West Coast 2-0.

New York Jets @ Pittsburgh:  Was that really a Tony Sparano led 48 point outburst last week?  A couple of those would of been nice in Miami, no?  Mark Sanchez looked good, the defense looked, well, Jet-like, and Tim Tebow was a non-factor.  All is well in the Big Apple.  On the other side of the ball, the Steelers are coming off a week one loss at the hands of, who else, Peyton Manning, and are coming home with something to prove.  In a game that features two of the better defenses in the league, I expect the Steelers to come out with a hard fought, low scoring, victory.

Tennessee @ San Diego:  The Chargers didn't look particularly good in their week one win against the Raiders, but hey, a win's a win's a win's.  The Titans struggled last week against New England, and if Chris Johnson doesn't get going, four yards rushing a week ago, then that offense is going to become extremely one dimensional and predictable.  I don't know why I like the Titans in this one, maybe it's just because I need an upset pick, but I do.  Give me the Titans in a game that will be decided on special teams, and more specifically, Rob Bironas.

Detroit @ San Francisco:  Harbaugh/Schwartz 2.0 here in week two, as these two coaches go back at it after last years "dicey" ending in Detroit.  Both these teams are coming off week one victories, with the Lions having to come from behind against the Rams, and the 49ers looking like the team to beat in the NFC in Green Bay.  In what should be a close one throughout, I'll take the Niners at home in a game that Jim Harbaugh has had circled since last October.

Denver @ Atlanta:  Peyton Manning was brilliant in his return to the NFL last week against one of the best defenses in the NFL, while Matt Ryan and the Falcons looked in mid season form against the Chiefs. I expect Manning and Ryan to go back and forth in this one, and wouldn't be surprised to see it come down to the final minutes.  In another mini upset pick, I like the veteran Peyton Manning to go into the Georgia Dome and knock off the high flying Falcons.  I'll take the Broncos.


As for injury news:

DT Tony McDaniel continues to battle a knee injury and has been ruled out out of tomorrow's game, as has WR Anthony Armstrong, who's been nursing a hamstring injury.  RB Daniel Thomas has also been ruled out of tomorrow's game.  Thomas, if you remember, left last week's game with a concussion, and while he believes the injury to be short term he still will not play.  Coach Joe Philbin said Lamar Miller is expected to be active in Thomas’ absence

Remember to check back in tomorrow morning for all the pre-game coverage, and as always, follow the live blog tomorrow starting at the 1:05 kickoff.

Until then, farewell.

In order for Fins to respond to adversity, fans must erase negativity

It's been one week and already Jeff Ireland is right back on the hot seat, although I'm not sure he was ever really off.  The Dolphins have played one game and already Joe Philbin is awful, Ryan Tannehill is a bust, and owner Stephen Ross needs to sell the team.

The season is lost.  0-16 is imminent.  Break out the brown bags and the "Suck for Barkley" chants (although you're going to have to come up with something catchier than that).

Classic Dolfan reaction.  I saw this coming from a mile away the minute the schedule was released, in fact, I even said so in my season predictions a few weeks ago. Remember?  Go back and check it out, week two vs the Raiders.

I said it would be one of the more important games of the year for the Miami Dolphins. And guess what?

It is.

The fan base is in panic.  The national media is laughing, and Vegas is saying "told ya so."  I get it, I really do, Dolfans.  You're frustrated.  You shouldn't be, but you are. The Fins looked bad in Houston, for three quarters, the Fins looked really, really bad. With every batted ball at the line, every fluttering pass tipped in the air, the NFL exposed Ryan Tannehill's achilles heel.

With every wide open tight end, and streaking Andre Johnson, the NFL exposed the Fins secondary.  But before you start circling the date of the 2013 NFL draft on your calendars, just please, take a minute, take a deep breath, and listen.

This team is young, folks, and incredibly inexperienced.  From Joe Philbin, down to Ryan Tannehill, down to Reshad Jones and Chris Clemons, the youth and inexperience on this team, at some of the most important positions, is really quite astounding.  Take Tannehill and Philbin, for example.  Sunday was not only the duo's first regular season game together, but it was their first games period, with Tannehill making his rookie debut and Philbin, his coaching debut.

Against a Super Bowl contending team!

On the road!

What did you expect, honestly?  Flawless game play on both sides of the football? Marino-esque play from Tannehill, and a Don Shula led performance on the sideline from Philbin?  I've said it before, and I'll say it again, manage your expectations, because I can't deal with this all season.

Yes, the product on the field Sunday was simply not good enough.  The offensive line was manhandled when Tannehill went back to pass, from the sacks to the tipped balls, it was all around disgusting.  But lets not forget, when the Dolphins wanted to run the ball, they ran it with ease.  The run blocking was sensational.

Yes, Ryan Tannehill was exposed en route to a 39.0 QB rating, and that will never be good enough to win football games.  His eyes constantly locked onto receivers, and he needs to learn to create passing lanes for himself.  But he was in control of an NFL offense, in his first career start, for the entire game.  A game that never looked too big for him, I might add.  That, as hard as it may be to hear, TRUMPS the final stats.

That, folks, is a heck of a lot harder to teach than anything else. Lack of composure and command will end careers, just ask Jamarcus Russell.

Tipped passes won't.  Tipped passes can, and will, be fixed.  You've got to give a team like this, as young and inexperienced as they are, time to respond.  Heck, you've got to give them time to learn HOW to respond.

You say you don't have time for that?  You're to impatient?

Why not? Why are you so hard pressed for time?  This isn't a year that's going to end in New Orleans, hate to break it you, folks.  We've got all the time in the world in Miami.  And we need it.  The Dolphins need it.

They need time to grow up.  Time to grow together as a team.  Time to learn how to win football games.  Will that start this weekend against Oakland?  Maybe, perhaps.  I personally think it will, but it may not, and if it doesn't we can't start the riots up just yet.

We must give the Dolphins time to respond to adversity.

But we must first erase the negativity.

For now, at least.
   

The good, the bad, and the indifferent from Sunday's loss

The good:  The defense.  If you didn't watch the game then you probably think I'm crazy, but those who watched it will agree with me.  The run defense was stifling, picking up right where it left off last year in holding Arian Foster and Ben Tate to 2.4 yards yards per carry.  Consider this, 24 of Houston's 30 points came off Dolphin turnovers in which the Texans average starting position was the Fins 31 yard line. Can't blame the defense there.

The bad:  The pass blocking.  It was simply not good enough today.  Ryan Tannehill had passes deflected all day long, and quite frankly he's lucky only two of them were intercepted.  No, this isn't completely the line's fault, and I'll get to Tannehill in a minute, but it's their job to not only protect Tannehill (something they also did a poor job of today as he was sacked three times), but to also protect his passes, and the deflections were a drive killer all day long.

The good:  Special Teams.  Marcus Thigpen returned a punt 72 yards for a TD early in the third quarter to give the Fins some life, and also had some respectable kick returns.  Dan Carpenter hit his only field goal try of the day, and the kickoff and punt units constantly had the Texans starting deep in their own territory.

The bad:  Redzone offense.  The Fins failed to put the ball in the endzone all day, but it was especially demoralizing in the fourth quarter, where they had drives stall inside the Texans ten yard line on back to back drives.  Ryan Tannehill has got to find a way to get the ball in the endzone, plain and simple.

The good:  Reggie Bush.  He looked fast today, he looked especially quick, and he looked well rested.  Had the Fins not had to abandon their running game in the second half I'm confident he would have easily had a 100 yard game, and he was also utilized nicely in the passing game.

The bad:  Third down conversions.  This goes for both the offense and the defense, as both units were poor in this category today.  One stat says it all here-  The Texans converted 41% of their third downs, the Dolphins converted only 20%.  Enough said. The defense has to get off the field, and the offense has to do a better job of staying on it.

The indifferent:  Ryan Tannehill.  The rookie had his highs and lows today, and as I've said before, that was to be expected.  He looked composed, in control of the offense, and under control all day, and with a rookie QB that's half the battle.  Two of his interceptions came off tipped passes, and the other came off a slant pass that was just undercut by a Pro Bowl corner.  The balls batted at the line, while not all Tannehill's fault, still fall on his shoulders because of two things:  His eyes, and his inability to create passing lanes.  The rookie must, MUST, learn to look off cornerbacks and not stare down receivers, or the interceptions are going to start to pile up.  He also has to learn to step up into the pocket and create a passing lane for himself, otherwise the tipped passes will be a reoccurring thing week after week.

Overall, what folks must understand is this Dolphins team is incredibly young and inexperienced, from their coach down to their QB.  They had eleven rookies active today, two of them starting on offense, and there is clearly going to be a learning curve. Ryan Tannehill showed flashes of brilliance today, the defense looked in midseason form, and the running game was a force.  Yes, the Fins lost by 20, but the positives must not be lost, especially with so much season left and such a young team.
     

Dolphins fall victim to turnover bug in 30-10 loss to Texans

The defense played tremendous. The special teams was outstanding. The offense? Well, it's a work in progress.

Ryan Tannehill went 20-36, for 219 yards, no TD's, and 3 interceptions in his rookie debut, and Reggie Bush had 14 carries for 69 yards.

Obviously this one was lost on the 2nd quarter, where the Fins turned it over on four straight possessions, in which the Texans scored 24 straight points.

Analysis and much more to come later, so come back, and thank you to those who followed.

Texans lead Dolphins 27-10 after 3rd quarter

Marcus Thigpen had a 72 yard punt return to bring the Dolphins within two touchdowns. Matt Shaub and the Texans followed that up with a field goal to extend the lead to 17.

Ryan Tannehill and the Fins offense? Well, they had the ball for a total of three plays in the third quarter as the Texans continue to grind out long drives against a Dolphins defense that's actually played very well.

To the fourth.

Texans lead Dolphins 24-3 off four Miami turnovers going into halftime

Disastrous 2nd quarter for Ryan Tannehill. The rookie threw not one, not two, but three interceptions on three straight drives as the Texans have scored 24 unanswered points. The first interception was on a slant route, and the next two were on balls batted up in the air at the line of scrimmage. To add onto that, RB Daniel Thomas was injured as he fumbled the ball on the Fins final drive. And of course, Houston recovered and scored yet another TD on a corner endzone strike to Andre Johnson.

Four turnovers, on four consecutive drives. Three of those on consecutive plays!

Holy moly, the flood gates have opened in disastrous fashion.

Yikes.

Sharp Miami Dolphins take 3-0 lead after 1st quarter

Ryan Tannehill has looked sharp, completing all but one pass. Reggie Bush has had running lanes all day, and the Dolphins defense has benefited from a missed Houston field goal, and a three and out.

What does this add up to? A 3-0 Fins lead at the end of the first quarter.

The Dolphins look sharp, both on the ground and through the air.

Onto the 2nd we go.

Dolphins, Texans set to kickoff; today's inactives

Kickoff is in just under 30 minutes from Reliant Stadium in Houston. Remember to follow the live quarter by quarter blog during today's game, and don't be afraid to leave your thoughts!

Until then, the inactives for today's game: Michael Egnew, Will Yeatman, Lamar Miller, Pat Devlin, Ray Feinga, Sammy Brown, Rishard Matthews.

Check back later, and go Fins!

Gameday Coverage! The keys to a Dolphins victory (with pick)

When the Dolphins are on offense:  Not turning over the ball will be pivotal for the Dolphins today as they can ill afford to give that Texans' offense a short field.  I'm interested to see how Mike Sherman approaches this game with rookie QB Ryan Tannehill; will he let him throw the ball?  Does he run the ball early with Reggie Bush and let Tannehill settle in?  I tend to believe the former will happen, based on the fact that in order for this Dolphins offense to succeed Tannehill must be the one calling shots and throwing the football.

One of the Miami receivers must step up as well, other than Davone Bess, and give Tannehill another reliable outlet to throw the football to.  Don't be surprised to see Reggie Bush used at receiver early and often, and expect to see a screen or two thrown Bush's way as well, which will keep the Texans defensive line modest.

However, while these things are well and good, the real key to the Dolphins offense being successful lies within the offensive line.  Protecting Ryan Tannehill will make or break the Fins effort today, and that's something Miami did not do well during the preseason.  Outside of Jake Long and Mike Pouncey, the Dolphins were highly inconsistent in protecting the rookie, and if they want a chance to win today keeping Tannehill comfortable in the pocket is vital.


When the Dolphins are on defense:  Contain Andre Johnson!  Don't let the big play happen, and that means keeping the All Pro receiver in check for the entirety of the game.

Pressure, pressure, pressure.  Not allowing QB Matt Shaub the time to throw the ball will be the difference in this game, and that all starts with Cameron Wake.  The Pro Bowl defensive end must make his presence known in the backfield today, on nearly every passing play, in order for the Fins defense to be successful.    

Don't forget about Arian Foster, either.  Shutting him down today will be critical.  Last season, Foster didn't play when these two teams met in week 2, yet back up running back Ben Tate torched the Fins defense for over 100 yards on the ground.  Miami must take Foster out of this game and force the Texans to become a one dimensional offense.

When it comes down to it, the key to knocking off the Texans today really boils down to two things:  Protecting Ryan Tannehill, and winning the turnover battle.  If the Dolphins do these two things then leaving Houston with a victory is certainly doable.

Prediction: The Fins will keep it close, maybe until the 4th quarter, but when it comes down to the knitty gritty, the Texans are just the better team.

Dolphins 17 Texans 26


Remember, the live quarter-by-quarter blog will be up and running today so check it out and feel free to leave your comments.  I'll have a pre game report shortly before the 1:05 kickoff, and until then, Go Fins!

Week 1 picks and predictions; plus Super Bowl XLVII pick

Read em and weap.

Indianapolis @ Chicago:  Tall order for Andrew Luck here in week one as, not only is the rookie on the road, but he's playing one of the more talented teams in the NFL. Expect the highs and lows throughout this one for Luck, but the Bears are the far superior team, and it'll show after four quarters.

New England @ Tennessee:  The champions of the AFC begin their march back to New Orleans on the road against a Titans team led by first year starter Jake Locker.  I was impressed with Locker in the preseason, and I think Chris Johnson is poised for a comeback year, but can the Tennessee defense hold its own?  I don't see it.  Give me the Pats.

Buffalo @ New York Jets:  And so it begins, the Tim Tebow watch of course, as the Jets take on the Bills in an AFC East rivalry here in week one.  The Buffalo defense is much improved, thanks in large part to offseason prize Mario Williams, and that, combined with the Jets offense, gives me a good feeling about the Bills in this one.

Washington @ New Orleans:  Much like Andrew Luck, a tough week one draw here for RGIII.  Going into the Superdome as a rookie and leaving with a win is asking a lot of the second overall pick, but it's not him that I see being the downfall for the Redskins in this game, it's the Saints offense.  Based on that, give me the black and gold.

Jacksonville @ Minnesota:  Adrian Peterson's status is up in the air for this one, but I don't see it making much of a difference.  The Vikings have something to work with in second year QB Christian Ponder, and based on QB play alone I like Ponder over Gabbert, and the Vikings over the Jags.

Atlanta @ Kansas City:  This is one of the tougher games to pick, personally, in week one as I see the Chiefs having a strong bounce back year after a 7-9 campaign a season ago.  Matt Ryan and the Falcons could potentially have one of the stronger offenses in 2012, and I like them to go far this season, but as for tomorrow, I like the Chiefs in an upset.

Philadelphia @ Cleveland:  The Eagles will be a serious contender this year if Michael Vick can stay healthy.  DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, and LeSean McCoy are only a few of the weapons Vick has to work with, and with a rookie QB in Brandon Weeden having to keep up with an offense like that, I like the Eagles to leave the dawg pound with a win.

St. Louis @ Detroit:  Jeff Fisher returns to the NFL and is greeted by Matthew Stafford and Calvin Johnson in Detroit, how's that for a welcome back party?  The Detroit offense was strong last year, and I expect that to carry over into tomorrow's contest. Give me the Lions.

San Francisco @ Green Bay:  One of the two premiere games this week here as this game features a true battle of the best defense vs the best offense.  Aaron Rodgers and the Packers are looking to wash away the bad taste in their mouth left by the Giants a season ago, as are the 49ers, who also fell victim to the eventual Super Bowl champs.  In a game that could go either way, I'll take the Packers, as I don't see Alex Smith and company keeping pace.

Seattle @ Arizona:  Russell Wilson makes his rookie debut here after taking the job from presumed starter Matt Flynn, while on the other side you have John Skelton at the helm over Kevin Kolb.  The defenses in this game will decide the outcome, as both finished last season on a high, and based on that I'll take the Hawks over the Cards.

Carolina @ Tampa Bay:  Cam Newton was outstanding a season ago in his rookie campaign, and I don't expect anything less of him this year.  The Bucs are led by former Rutgers head coach Greg Schiano, and feature a revamped offense featuring weapons such as Dallas Clark and Vincent Jackson.  This is Josh Freeman's final year to get it right after a miserable 2011, and although I believe the Bucs will keep it close, I can't go against Cam Newton.  Give me the Panthers.

Pittsburgh @ Denver:  The second premiere game of week one features the comeback of a one Peyton Manning.  After missing all of 2011, Manning is back and looked like his old self in the preseason as he showed no signs of any lingering neck issues.  The Steeler defense will be the true test for Manning and the Broncos new look offense, but given the location of this one, I'll take the Broncos at home.

Cincinnati @Baltimore:  The Ravens are licking their chops to get back on the field after nearly earning a Super Bowl birth a season ago.  The defense will be dominating, the offense will be hard to stop, and I believe Baltimore to be the front runner for AFC North champion.  Andy Dalton was spectacular a season ago, and while I expect to see him put up more of the same numbers this year, I don't see it in week one.  Give me the Ravens.

San Diego @ Oakland:  How has Norv Turner lasted this long?  Year after year the Chargers continue to fall well below expectations, yet the embattled head coach continues to man the San Diego sideline.  Maybe that's because he's got a QB in Phillip Rivers who is just below the top tier level of QB's, and the chance to win continues to be there week after week when Rivers is behind center.  If the Chargers don't go deep into the postseason this year expect Turner's unprecedented run to end, and I think the the San Diego players sense that, and it shows with a week one victory in Oakland.

Ravens vs Cowboys

Yes, it's bold, and probably won't pan out, but hey, Tony Romo looked pretty darn good the other night.

Check back tomorrow for all the pre-game coverage and in-depth analysis as the Miami Dolphins take on the Houston Texans, and don't forget to follow the live blog starting at kickoff!  

Until then, I bid you farewell. 

Final five weeks of season predictions; Injury report heading into season opener

Lighting round of the season predictions here, lets do it.

Overall record after week 12:  5-6

All-time record against:  50-43

This one is in Miami, and the Fins always play the Pats tough when they come to town.  In-fact, the last time the Dolphins beat the Pats will be nearly two years to the day when these two meet in December, a 22-20 Chad Henne led win.

I expect this to be a relatively high scoring game from both ends, but asking Ryan Tannehill to keep up with Tom Brady is an awful lot, and given the Fins struggles to cover tight ends I expect Rob Gronkowski and Aaron Hernandez to have a field day. Miami will keep it close into the second half, but I expect the the Pats offense to be too much for young Tannehill to compete with.

Final: Patriots 34 Dolphins 23

Overall record after week 13:  5-7

All-time record against:  6-5

This is arguably the most daunting game on Miami's schedule.  The 49ers defense resembles the Ravens unit of 2000, and could give Ryan Tannehill serious problems. Defensively, the Fins must take Vernon Davis out of the game, as he is a popular target of QB Alex Smith.

If the Fins are to have any chance to win this game they must win the turnover battle. Pressuring Alex Smith and not giving him a short field to work with will be crucial here, along with Ryan Tannehill having a near perfect day on the other side of the ball. Unfortunately, I don't see it.  But hey, crazier things have happened, right?

Final: Dolphins 13 49ers 24

Overall record after week 14:  5-8

All-time record against:  2-3

Two rookie head coaches going at it here in week 15 as Mike Mularkey and the Jacksonville Jaguars come to Miami.  The real key for the Fins will be to contain Maurice Jones Drew and force Blaine Gabbert to throw the ball.  The unproven QB had a terrible rookie campaign and was turnover prone, something the Dolphins must expose in this game to be successful.

Cam Wake will play a big part in this one, constantly pressuring Gabbert into making bad throws, and if Ryan Tannehill and the Fins offense can put any kind of points on the board against a very good Jacksonville defense, and I expect they will, then I think Miami gets a win here.

Final: Jaguars 17 Dolphins 27

Overall record after week 15:  6-8

All-time record against:  56-39-1

I'll make it short and sweet.  Fins don't lose to Buffalo twice in a year.

Final: Bills 24 Dolphins 27

Overall record after week 16:  7-8

All-time record against:  50-43

Final week of the year here for the Miami Dolphins.  No, I don't see them making the playoffs, but as I've said before, that's not what this year is about.  It's about Ryan Tannehill progressing, and the Miami Dolphins progressing overall as an organization.

If they come into this week at 7-8 then that has clearly happened, but that's a big IF. They could easily win four games this year like many are projecting them to do, although I don't see that.  I see Ryan Tannehill surprising a lot of people this season, even with the lack of receiving help around him, and don't be surprised if Reggie Bush has a bigger year than most think, both through the air and on the ground.

Oh, and in regards to this game, I'll give my upset pick of the year here in week 17.

Why?

Well, everybody needs an upset pick.

Final: Dolphins 28 Patriots 27

Final record: 8-8

Gulp.

[One more note on the season picks as a whole.  Obviously, they are subject to change on a weekly basis depending on the Dolphins performance the previous week and the season as a whole.  Yeah, I just left myself a little wiggle room, what did you expect?]



The injury report going into week 1:

Jake Long is healthy and will play.  Brian Hartline, who missed the entire preseason, will also play.  Koa Misi will play and start at outside linebacker, and John Jerry will start at right guard.

The only Dolphin who is questionable is defensive lineman Tony McDaniel, who is banged up with a toe/knee injury.  His status is unknown for tomorrow's game.

For the Texans, Arian Foster is listed as questionable but expects to play.  Good news for my fantasy team, bad news for the Fins.  And linebacker Brookes Reed is also listed as questionable and status is unknown.

Check back later for my week 1 picks for all of Sunday and Monday's games.