Saints lead Fins 35-10 after third quarter

Well, this is why I circled this game at the beginning of the season.

Drew Brees is elite.

And the Saints are too.

Brees had two TD's in the third quarter alone, and has four on the night. Two have gone to Jimmy Graham.

The Dolphin defense has been on their heels the entire game, and has been picked apart.

The offense has stalled. Tannehill has been sacked three times. He does, however, have the Fins driving as we speak.

Too little to late.

Saints lead turnover prone Dolphins 21-10 at half

What looked like a promising second quarter, ended in disaster.

Following a Lamar Miller TD and a Saints three and out, Miami took over with 2:14 left.

That's when Ryan Tannehill threw his third INT of the year on a jumped Brian Hartline slant route.

New Orleans would capitalize as Darren Sproles hauled in a Drew Brees TD pass.

Sproles, by the way, has dominated Miami thus far, accounting for over 100 total yards and TWO TD's.

Tannehill's INT was his second turnover of the game, as he fumbled earlier.

Both turnovers resulted in NO touchdowns.

Miami gets the ball to begin the second half. 

Saints lead Fins 7-3 after first quarter

Interesting first quarter.

The Saints opening drive was a disaster for Miami. Darren Sproles out ran the entire defense en route to the opening score of the game. 

Miami responded with a good drive of their own, but failed to pick up a first down on third and inches and settled for a Caleb Sturgis FG.

Lamar Miller has been very good tonight. The defense has dominated the run game since the first drive.

However, the Saints still lead 7-3.

To the second.

Wake NOT playing, Soliai is, as FIns, Saints near kickoff; the inactives

Word has just come out the star DE Cameron Wake will NOT be playing tonight.

Wake went through an extensive pre-game workout as Joe Philbin, Kevin Coyle, and team doctors watched.  Reports had Wake not looking anywhere near 100%, but he still went to the locker room and, according to Jeff Darlington, began to dress as if he were playing.

Apparently, somewhere between then and now Wake was told he would not be playing.  Starting in his place will be Jared Odrick.

The news is much better for Paul Soliai, who will be active tonight after missing last week's game with a knee injury.  Soliai looked good in warm ups and should be very involved in this game.

Also expect a huge work load for DE Derrick Shelby, and rookie Dion Jordan.

As for the other inactives, here they are, first, for the Miami Dolphins:


QB Pat Devlin
CB Dimitri Patterson
G Danny Watkins
G Dallas Thomas
RB Mike Gillislee
CB Will Davis

Notice that rookie CB Jamar Taylor WILL be active for the first time this season tonight.  Expect him to play a lot in the base formation.

Saints inactives:

Lance Moore
Mark Ingram
Roman Harper,
Rod Sweeting,
Terron Armstead,
Brodrick Bunkley
Tom Johnson

The Dolphins will break out their aqua/blue tops for the first time this season, along with their white pants.

Saints in white tops with black pants.

Blog starts after the first quarter!

GO FINS

Gameday: Keys To A Dolphins Win PLUS Prediction

(Dolphins.com)

Are you ready for some football!?

Monday is FINALLY here, as your 3-0 Miami Dolphins are just hours away from kicking things off with the also unbeaten New Orleans Saints.

The Fins are looking to go 4-0 for the first time in nearly 20 years.  Yes, it's been that long.

However, they have, as I pointed out earlier this season, a MONUMENTAL challenge standing in their way.  Beating Drew Brees and the Saints, at home, on Monday Night Football, is something few can say they've actually done.

Not to mention that this is Miami's chance to gain some real respect around the NFL (which is ridiculous seeing as they're 3-0).  They'll be playing in front of a national audience for the first time this season, and they know they have A LOT to prove.

So, how, exactly, do the Miami Dolphins pull this one off?

Take a look:


1.  Weather the storm.  Expect a fast and furious start from the Saints to begin this football game.  You have their first primetime game of the year, in one of the loudest stadiums in the NFL, with a rejuvenated fan base excited about the 3-0 start.  That can be a recipe for disaster.

It's also no secret that this Miami Dolphins team isn't known for getting off to fast starts, as they've yet to go into halftime this season with the lead.  It will be critical for both the offense and defense to withstand an early push from the Saints.  Keeping this game close going into halftime, especially on the road, will be huge for the Miami Dolphins.

2.  Protect Ryan Tannehill.  This one is the absolute, unquestionable, number one key for the Miami Dolphins tonight.  By now everybody knows the stats:  14 sacks through three games.  Most in the NFL by far.  This becomes even more critical tonight because you're now facing a Rob Ryan defense that confuses even the elite quarterbacks.  Ryan has this unit firing on all cylinders this year as they rank 4th overall in the NFL, giving up a measly 12.7 point per game.  However, there is one thing to remember here:

This is a defense that the Miami Dolphins have seen before, at least in some variation. Rex Ryan's defensive schemes, blitzes, and looks are very similar to those of his brother's, and I expect that OC Mike Sherman used this to his advantage throughout the week.

Another thing to remember:  Ryan Tannehill has routinely handled blitzes very well.  Last week he completed 15-of-18 passes for 155 yards against Atlanta’s blitz packages.

Regardless, expect Ryan to throw the kitchen sink at Tannehill and his shaky protection tonight.  The offensive line must recognize this, and protect their quarterback at all costs.  This could very well be the difference in this game.

3.  Establish the run game.  This one should be another obvious key in this football game.  Lets look at the positives first.  The running game has improved each week:

Week 1 in Cleveland:  23 rushes, 20 yards.  0.9 yards per carry.

Week 2 in Indianapolis:  27 rushes, 101 yards.  3.7 yards per carry.

Week 3 vs Atlanta:  15 rushes, 90 yards.  6.0 yards per carry.

Now, the negatives.  The Dolphins rank 27th in the NFL in running the football with only 211 yards through three games.  On top of that, this offense is only averaging 70.0 yards per game, and 3.2 yards per carry.  This is something that must change tonight for the Miami Dolphins if they hope to pull this one out.  Ryan Tannehill has put this offense on his shoulders through the first three weeks, and he's done an admirable job, but I don't see him winning this game without a running game.

Luckily, this matchup may be exactly what this ailing running attack needs.  As bad as the Dolphins run offense has been, the Saints run defense has been even worse, giving up a whopping 5.3 yards per carry, and 111.3 yards per game.  This is the matchup that Miami must expose tonight if they are to win.  Establishing a consistent running game opens up the play-action, takes some of the pressure off of Tannehill, and gives this already solid offense another weapon to utilize.

4.  Pressure, pressure, pressure Drew Brees. Cameron Wake may or may not play tonight, but even if he does, he won't be his regular self.  This is a crucial loss for the Miami Dolphins.  They could get away with this against mostly any other quarterback in the NFL besides Drew Brees, who will pick you apart if he has time to do so.

With Wake ailing, and Paul Soliai most likely out, this defensive line must find a way to disrupt Brees, and they have to do it early, and often.  Guys like Dion Jordan, Randy Starks, Jared Odrick, Derrick Shelby, and Olivier Vernon must find a way to get it done tonight without their fearless leader at 100%.  If they don't, expect an arial assault of epic proportions, because Drew Brees just has too many weapons to not take advantage of a clean pocket.  Here's something else to remember:

CB Dimitri Patterson is also out for this game.  That means Nolan Carroll will get his third start in a row, and after a strong performance in Indianapolis, the fourth year man out of Maryland struggled last week against Julio Jones.  This means that if that Miami front four cannot consistently generate pressure on Drew Brees, expect him to feast on Carroll, especially with Brent Grimes on the other side.

5.  Get to the fourth quarter.  This Miami Dolphins team has dominated the opposition in the second half this season, especially in the final quarter.

Week 1:  Outscored Cleveland 10-0 in the 4th quarter, and 17-3 in the second half.

Week 2:  Outscored Indianapolis 7-3 in the second half.  Both teams went scoreless in the 4th quarter.

Week 3:  Outscored Atlanta 7-3 in the 4th quarter, and 17-10 in the second half.

Tally that up, and the Miami Dolphins are outscoring opponents 41-16 in the second half this season, and 17-3 in the fourth quarter.  That tells me that, if Miami can keep this game close at halftime, and especially at the end of the third quarter, then the Dolphins have a great chance at winning this football game.


PREDICTION

I circled this game back in April when the schedule first came out.  Why?  Because I knew it would prove to be the most difficult game on the slate for the Miami Dolphins this season.  If this game was in Miami, I'd pick the Dolphins with full confidence.  But, unfortunately, it's not.  This game is in New Orleans, under the lights, in front of a national audience.  That scares me.

Another thing that scares me is the injuries on the defensive side of the football.  Cameron Wake and Paul Soliai are game-time decisions, and Dimitri Patterson has already been ruled out.  Against a high-flying offense like the Saints, injuries to key players like this could prove to be the difference in a game.

I have little doubt that Ryan Tannehill will keep the Dolphins in this game, and I expect this one to come down to the final minutes.  However, picking against Drew Brees, Sean Payton, and the 3-0 New Orleans Saints at home, on Monday Night Football, is something I just cannot do.

Final:  Dolphins 24 Saints 31


Alright folks, that'll do it for now.  Check back right before kickoff for last minute news, updates, and, of course, the full list of inactives for both teams.  If you need something to hold you over until then, take a minute and go check out a couple stories I posted earlier this week.

- Click here to find out just how successful the Dolphins have been in the Red Zone this season

- Click here to see just how far Ryan Tannehill's come in his second season

- Click here for some eye opening stats through the first three weeks of the season


As always, I'll have the live blog up and running tonight, beginning at the end of the first quarter.  So make sure to follow along.

T-minus SIX hours until kickoff from the Bayou!

GO FINS!

 

    

Week 4 in the NFL: PIcks and predictions

It's that time again.  I have a to rebound from a career worst week here at Dolphinsider, so buckle up.

Last week's record:  6-9

Overall record:  24-21


Baltimore @ Buffalo:  Boy, did the Bills look bad last week, against a bad opponent nonetheless.  Give me the Ravens on the road.  But it's tighter than some people think.

Arizona @ Tampa Bay:  Glennon time!!!  But this is a rebound game for Carson Palmer after a beat down in the Bayou last week.  Give me the Cardinals against the rookie.

Pittsburgh @ Minnesota:  Another year, another terrible game across the pond.  I'll take Big Ben and the Steelers to get of the shnide in London.

N.Y. Giants @ Kansas City:  My gut tells me don't count out Eli and the Giants just yet, but my head tells me they're done.  I'll go with the ladder here and take the undefeated Chiefs in a close one.

Indianapolis @ Jacksonville:  Ugh.  Just, ugh.  Colts.

Seattle @ Houston:  Now here's a good game.  Russell Wilson and the Seahawks are a different team on the road, but is that enough for me to go against them?  Absolutely. Give me Shaub and the Texans at home for the upset.

Cincinnati @ Cleveland:  It's Hoyer time, baby!!!  Second straight start for the former backup to the backup, and for good reason.  He looked good, for the most part, in last weeks win in Minnesota.  Unfortunately, this opponent is actually good, and I expect that Cincinnati defense to create all kinds of problems for the "rejuvenated" Cleveland offense. Give me Dalton and the Bengals on the road.

Chicago @ Detroit:  Are Jay Cutler and the Bears for real?  We'll find out today, as that Detroit offense, who'll have Reggie Bush back in the backfield, will put them to the test. In a close one, I'll take Stafford and the Lions at home.

N.Y. Jets @ Tennessee:  That was an impressive showing against the Chargers, especially for Jake Locker.  The kid showed me a lot last week, but can he repeat it? That question may not be answered today, but it won't matter.  Give me the Titans at home over the New York Penalties.

Washington @ Oakland:  Terrell Pryor's status remains unclear, but I don't think that makes a difference here.  RGIII is getting healthier each week, and I think he puts it all together here to get the Redskins in the win column.

Philadelphia @ Denver:  Chip Kelly will wish he was in a parking lot after this one is over (whatever that means).  12 days rest, 6 days rest, it doesn't matter with this Denver offense.  Give me Peyton and the Broncos.

Dallas @ San Diego:  That Tony Romo led Dallas offense looks good so far.  This one has shootout written all over it, and when it comes down to shootouts, I tend to favor the home team.  Give me Philip Rivers and the Chargers.

New England @ Atlanta:  No Gronk?  No Amendola?  No bueno.  I'll take Matt Ryan and the Falcons to get back to .500 at home, under the Sunday Night lights.


That'll do it for now.  As always, I'll have your Miami Dolphins gameday coverage beginning Monday morning, including my prediction.

The Fins and Saints will end week 4 on Monday Night in the battle of the unbeatens. This game will be, as I stated earlier this year, the toughest test this season for young Ryan Tannehill and the upstart Miami Dolphins.

Do I think they can pull it out?

Check back on Monday!

Until then..

GO FINS

Red Zone Success Paving The Way For Miami Dolphins

I can remember back to the peak of the Dolphins mediocrity just like it was yesterday.

It was a December game in Oakland.  Chad Henne at the helm and Tony Sparano manning the sidelines, sunglasses and all.

These 2010 Miami Dolphins were 5-5 at the time.  They were led by a strong defense, a mediocre head coach, an average offense, and a below average quarterback.

Or, in other words, every Miami Dolphins team since 2000.

This was no more evident than in the fourth quarter of this game.  With Miami up by six, Chad Henne and the offense stalled inside Oakland territory, forcing Sparano to send out then kicker Dan Carpenter for a 25 yard field goal.

Carpenter would make it, and put the Dolphins up by nine with four minutes to play.

Enter Tony Sparano, or, as I've since called him, Tony Fistpump.

Take a look:

And that, right there, sums up the last decade of Miami Dolphins football.

"Fist Pumps and Field Goals:  The Story Of The 2000-2012 Miami Dolphins."

But not anymore.  This 3-0 start has signaled the beginning of a new era for the Miami Dolphins.  You see it on the sidelines with Joe Philbin, and you see it behind center with Ryan Tannehill.

However, there's somewhere else you see it as well:

The Red Zone.

Too good to be true, right?  Wrong.  Here's a stat that may make you question everything you've ever thought you believed:

The Miami Dolphins are FIRST in the NFL in red zone efficiency, scoring a touchdown 87.5% of the time.  To put that in perspective, the 2012 Dolphins scored touchdowns in the red zone 55% of the time.

Those 2010, fist pumping Dolphins?  52% of the time.

Just for good measure, I'll give you one more stat.  The New England Patriots, yes, those New England Patriots, are dead last in this category.  Tom Terrific and his band of misfits have only punched it in a shocking 30% of the time.

Do I think the Dolphins will keep up this ridiculous pace?  Absolutely not.  In-fact, since 2003, only a handful of teams have finished a season over 70%, with the highest being the 2003 Kansas City Chiefs at 76%.  However, in a society driven by the present and the "right now," you can't ignore what this team has done in their first three games.

Scoring touchdowns in the red zone is something Joe Philbin preached in the offseason, and it appears his players got the message loud and clear.

Starting with a Daniel Thomas touchdown in Cleveland to put Miami up by ten in the fourth quarter, and continuing with Ryan Tannehill's game winner on Sunday, it's evident that this team is different than that one in Oakland three years ago.

And this 3-0 start is a DIRECT reflection of that.

I expect this number to fall eventually, maybe even this Monday.  But even when it does, the message that it's sent will still be loud and clear:

Touchdowns win football games, field goals do not.  Just ask Ryan Tannehill.

"If you kick a lot of field goals, you’re giving up four points at a time. [That's] the way we look at it."

A quote that would make Tony Fistpump shudder.

My, how times have changed.

Forget Me Not: Ryan Tannehill Surging Past Sophomore Counterparts

It's not often that a quarterback can be drafted eighth in the NFL Draft, set the franchise record for passing yards in a season (3,294) by a rookie, and lead a severely under talented team to a respectable 7-9 record, and STILL fly under the radar.

Yet Ryan Tannehill did just that in his inaugural 2012 season.

While the NFL world was in an uproar over Andrew Luck, RGIII, and Russell Wilson, the rookie out of Texas A&M fell through the cracks.  Unnoticed, seldom talked about, and hidden in the shadows of his playoff bound rookie counterparts.

Heck, he was even an afterthought at his alma mater, otherwise known as "Johnny Football U."

But within the confines of Dolphins headquarters, Ryan Tannehill was anything but an afterthought.

He was the future.  He was the savior.  He was the new face, on the new logo, of a new era of Miami Dolphins football.  Even Offensive Coordinator Mike Sherman couldn't hide his excitement, saying that Tannehill would make the biggest leap of any second year quarterback this season.

And now, three wins and one 13 play, 75 yard drive later, the rest of the world is beginning to catch on.

Ryan Tannehill has arrived.  In-fact, dare I say, he's starting to surge.

In his dust, he's left fellow draft mates Brandon Weeden and Andrew Luck, both of whom who were outplayed by Tannehill earlier this season.  For those of you keeping count, that makes Tannehill 3-1 against his fellow quarterbacks.

Remember, he already out-dueled Russell Wilson last season in what continues to be the last regular season loss for the almighty Seahawks.

But those three were merely opening acts to the performance Tannehill gave us on Sunday. An Emmy deserving performance on the eve of the 65th Emmy Awards later that night.

Tannehill took over with a little over four minutes left, trailing by a field goal, tucked deep inside his own territory.

And then, just like that, the kid of 2012 became the man of 2013.

With every perfectly placed pass (Tannehill was 9-12 on the drive with two drops), and every converted third down (3/3 on the drive), you watched the former forgotten son turn into the golden child.  And then, with 42 seconds left, and one yard separating Miami from its first 3-0 record in over a decade, Tannehill put the finishing touches on what would be his finest hour:

A perfectly thrown, masterfully executed one yard lob pass to rookie TE Dion Sims that sent Sun Life Stadium into a Marino-esque frenzy.

You'll never see Ryan Tannehill on the front of Sports Illustrated.  He'll never be the topic when you turn on the T.V..  And you'll surely never find him while flipping through the pages of ESPN the Magazine's Body Issue.

But make no mistake about it, the Miami Dolphins have found their franchise quarterback.

And he's quietly surging past his Sophomore counterparts.


(This article can also be found at standingosports.com/main)

Dolphinsider teams up with 'Standing O Sports'

Should I create a mock up press release here?

No, too classy for that.

I will, however, pass along some news.  Tonight I have officially joined Standingosports.com, a brand new website that was launched late last month.  The CEO and founder of the website is a good friend of mine- I've debated him (heatedly) on sports talk shows, and we both walked out friends - so you know he's a good guy.

Anyway, he recently launched this website, and it's the real deal.  It covers everything, from the NFL, to MLB, to MMA.  Not a sporting event will go by without the 'StandingO' crew covering it.  He's asked me to join the team as the official Dolphins insider, and, for obvious reasons, I accepted.  So, starting tomorrow, I'll be covering the Miami Dolphins for 'Standing O Sports' as well as Dolphinsider.

I'm not entirely sure how I'm going to balance the two, but I can tell you that the majority of the things you read on here will also be seen on the new website.  At the same time, there may be things I write on there that I won't post to Dolphinsider, so you'll have to make sure to check in on both.

Regardless, I'd like to thank Standing O Sports for having me, and I'd like to especially thank everybody who's followed Dolphinsider since it's launching in 2011.  The page views are at an all time high right now, and the feedback has been awesome.  (It also doesn't hurt to cover a 3-0 team.  It's a nice change of pace, if I do say so myself).

I've posted the link to the website below, so make sure to check it out.  You won't be disappointed.

Now, back to business.

It's Saints week.

Six days.

http://standingosports.com/main/

Tale of the tape: Looking at the numbers as Fins enter Saints week 3-0

I like to do this at certain points throughout the year, as most of you know who've been here for a while.

I'm not a big numbers guy; never have been, never will be.  However, sometimes, as ESPN will tell you, numbers never lie.

So, with that being said, lets delve into the numbers for your unbeaten Miami Dolphins.

Enjoy.

• Ryan Tannehill's QB rating sits at 94.3 after three weeks, good for 9th in the NFL and 3rd in the AFC.  Tannehill sits ahead of Jay Cutler, Tom Brady, Andy Dalton, Andrew Luck, and even Drew Brees.
• Completion percentage was a huge focal point for Ryan Tannehill last offseason after finishing the season below 60%.  Well, so far so good, as Tannehill sits, again, at 9th in the NFL in completion % at 66.4.
• How about yards per attempt?  This is something else Tannehill had to improve upon, and, like everything else, he has.  Tannehill sits at 10th in the NFL, and 4th in the AFC, in YDS/A with 7.73. 
• Sticking with the QB (why? because I can), Tannehill ranks 13th in the NFL in passing yards per game with 276, but that number jumps up to 5th in the AFC.
• Last one about Tannehill, I promise.  The kid does rank 1st in one category. Yep, all by himself at the top.  Unfortunately, that category is sacks. Tannehill has been taken down a league leading 14 times.  FOURTEEN. That's a troubling pace, and one that must be taken care of soon.
• The Miami offense ranks 11th in the NFL in points per game at 24.7.
• Which is surprising since the offense ranks 26th in total yards.
• A big part of that is the running game, which ranks 28th (or 4th worst in the NFL) in total yards at 211.  To put that in perspective, the team who leads this category, the Eagles, have nearly four times as many yards.
• This may be the most telling stat of them all:  The offense is currently converting 50% of its third down opportunities, good for 3rd in the NFL.  Last season, the offense converted 33% of its opportunities.  
• This may be the second most telling stat:  Defensively, Miami is ranked 7th in third down conversions, only giving up a first down 32.5% of the time.  The defense is getting off the field, and the offense is staying on it.  That's a pretty simple formula for winning football games in this league.
• This team has been disciplined as well, something Joe Philbin preaches. They currently stand at 15th in penalties, having 19 on the year, and only 5th in penalty yards at 129.  In the last two weeks the Fins have committed TWO penalties.  Two.
• Defensively, Miami is ranked 8th in points per game, allowing a measly 17.7.
• With that being said, the defense is giving up 372 yards per game, good for 22nd in the NFL.
• Splitting that up, they're 20th against the pass, and 19th against the run.  
• The Fins are +2 in takeaways, good for 5th in the AFC.
• They're also tied for 3rd in INT's with 5.  Last season they had 10 INT's, good for 27th.
• And lastly, the biggest stat to date, and I mentioned it yesterday.  The Dolphins are outscoring opponents 41-16 in the second half.  Good teams finish football games, and the Dolphins are finishing with a bang right now.

Enough numbers for you?

Until next time..  

Miami Dolphins Monday musings; Cam Wake update; Ireland extended?

Still can't get over that thrilling, come from behind, last minute win yesterday by your 3-0 Miami Dolphins?

Neither can I.  And you know what, the more I've thought about it, the more impressed I am.

Lets muse:

• This was a game we've all seen before.  This was a game former coach Tony Sparano would have LOVED.  Chew up the clock, win the time of possession battle, and win the game, right?  Wrong.  This is EXACTLY why time of possession is the BIGGEST fraud of a stat in the NFL. I can remember back four years ago to a Monday night game against Indianapolis.  The Fins would dominate the TOP battle (something along the lines of 45-15 in favor of Miami), but still end up losing!  After the game Tony Sparano was shocked that his team lost.  Complete and utter disbelief.  This is a different team, folks, with a different head coach, and a different QB.  To win that game yesterday, even after losing nearly every statistical battle, was eye opening.
• Want to know why the Dolphins are 3-0 today?  Here it is in one neat sentence:  The Dolphins are outscoring opponents in the second half 41-16.  
• Well, that and Ryan Tannehill.  This kid has arrived, and he's here to stay for a long, long time.  13 plays, 75 yards, and a game winning TD pass.  3/3 on third downs during that drive.  9-12 passing on that drive.  He was poised, accurate, and smart.  He even suggested the eventual game winning TD play to OC Mike Sherman, who agreed with the call.  There should be absolutely NO doubt about it anymore:  Ryan Tannehill is your franchise QB, and he belongs in the same sentence with Andrew Luck (who he just beat), Russell Wilson (who he beat last year), and RGIII (who currently sits at 0-3).  
• How about the players who stepped up yesterday?  Dion Jordan, Derrick Shelby, Jimmy Wilson, Dion Sims, Michael Egnew, Rishard Matthews. Those are the players who helped you BEAT the Atlanta Falcons.  Yes, you read them right.  You want to talk about developing young players, just look at yesterday's contributors.  Joe Philbin loves to use the term "team win."  Well, that was a team win if I've ever seen one.  Kudos to the Fins coaching staff.
• As much as I loved Davone Bess, you're beginning to see just how much he was holding back the Miami Dolphins.  Brandon Gibson has been tremendous this season, especially in yards after the catch.  That's something Bess couldn't do, and that's why Gibson is a HUGE upgrade.
• Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas continue to run the ball better, but the offense still needs more production out of them.
• Especially in the pass blocking game.  Ryan Tannehill took ANOTHER beating yesterday, getting sacked five times.  Some of it was the offensive line, some of it was Tannehill, but a big part of it was the poor blocking from Miller and Thomas.  This is something Miami must fix QUICKLY, especially with Rob Ryan looming.
• Paul Soliai just got A LOT more expensive, folks.  The pro bowl DT did not play yesterday with a lingering knee injury, and his absence was EXTREMELY noticeable.  Atlanta ran all over the Miami Dolphins, something I did not expect.  The defense allowed 146 yards on the ground, and a 4.9 average, to Jason Snelling and Jacquizz Rodgers.  Yikes.  This defense needs the big man back, and they need him back now.
• Another issue this defense had yesterday was tackling.  I'd need an extra hand to count how many tackles this unit missed yesterday.  I can assure you that this will be a major point of focus at practice this week.
• If ever the Miami Dolphins needed Dimitri Patterson to come back, it's this week against the Saints.  Nolan Carroll was picked apart yesterday by Matt Ryan, which led to a huge day for Julio Jones.  Carroll is just to inconsistent to start in this league, and you can bet that if I know that, so does Drew Brees.
• Quote of the day?  Owner Stephen Ross:  "We got a damn good football team."  Maybe, maybe not.  But how can you argue against that TODAY?

WAKE UPDATE

Jason La Canfora tweeted this just minutes ago:  

"More good news for Dolphins fans, the team learned today its a mild MCL sprain for star Cameron Wake, who hurt his knee Sunday"

"Dolphins will monitor Wake this week, could miss some practice time and decide his playing status late in week. good news overall for them."

Wake missed most of the game yesterday and was not happy after the game.  He's never been hurt in his four year career, but it looks like he'll be okay here.  I'd be surprised if he didn't play on Monday night.

IRELAND EXTENDED

This came out of left field.  A report came out earlier today saying that embattled GM Jeff Ireland has been extended through next season.  That's not the most surprising thing, however.  The report goes on to say that Ireland was actually extended sometime over the summer.  

How this was kept quiet I'll never know, but I guess if it's going to be leaked it might as well happen today, no?  This resigning looks great right now, as all of Ireland's offseason work has clearly paid off.  But I'll hold off opinion until January.  I advise you to do the same.

Tannehill leads Dolphins to first 3-0 record since 2002

Ryan Tannehill has arrived.

And so have the Miami Dolphins.

Tannehill orchestrated an unbelievable game winning TD drive in the final minutes, hitting Dion Sims in the end zone with 38 seconds left.

Jimmy Wilson would intercept Matt Ryan on the Falcons final drive to seal the deal. Rookie DE Dion Jordan put the pressure on Ryan to force the bad pass.

But the story of the game was Ryan Tannehill. The QB finished 24-35, 236 yards, 2 TD's and an INT.

But it was the final drive that proved to be the defining moment for the young QB. Not only in this game, but in his career.

On that drive Tannehill would convert THREE third down attempts, and hit big passes to Rishard Matthews, and Charles Clay. But it was the one-yard, game winning TD pass to rookie Dion Sims that proved to be the most impressive of the day.

The Miami Dolphins are now 3-0 for the first time since 2002.

A LOT more to come.

Falcons, Fins tied at 20 after third quarter

Buckle up.

This game is everything it's been advertised to be and more.

Matt Ryan capitalized on a Ryan Tannehill fumble to put the Falcons up by ten.

Then came the Miami Dolphins.

Following a Caleb Sturgis FG, the Fins got the ball back, only to have Tannehill turn it over with an INT. The ball should have been caught by Charles Clay.

However, the Fins special teams stepped up, recovering an ATL fumble at the 20. Tannehill would then hit Brian Hartline in the end zone to tie it up at 20.

Buckle up.

To the fourth.

Falcons lead Fins 13-10 at halftime

Atlanta has had the ball for nearly 23 minutes.

Miami has had it for seven minutes.

Atlanta has 215 yards of total offense.

Miami has only 143.

Matt Ryan is 15-17 for 118 yards and a TD.

Ryan Tannehill is 7-9 for 79 yards.

Yet the Fins only trail 13-10 at halftime.

Sound familiar? It should. This has been the Miami Dolphins for the last decade. However, the roles are reversed this time.

The big problem here has been the Miami run defense. They've been dominated, giving up nearly 100 yards through the first two quarters. To make matters worse, Cameron Wake's return is questionable with a knee injury.

The Fins offense has been very good, but they haven't been on the field enough. It's clear that if the defense can step up, the Dolphins can win this game.

Lamar Miller has been good, breaking off a big 49 yard run.

Daniel Thomas pounded in a 2-yard TD.

Ryan Tannehill has looked great.

If the Dolphin defense can figure it out they can win this game, plain and simple.

That's a BIG if though.

To the third.

Falcons lead Fins 7-0 after one quarter

Like I said, this will be a tremendous matchup for the Miami Dolphins.

Matt Ryan drove the Falcons the length of the field on the opening drive, which lasted nearly 10 minutes, and gave Atlanta a 7-0 lead with a nifty shovel pass to Jason Snelling.

Ryan Tannehill and the Fins went three and out.

That was their only drive.

To the second. 

Dolphins, Falcons nearing kickoff; the inactives

They are just over an hour away from kicking things off in South Florida, as the Miami Dolphins are set to begin their quest for 3-0.

Here are the inactives for the Fins:

Pat Devlin

Jamar Taylor

Dimitri Patterson

Josh Kaddu

Danny Watkins

Dallas Thomas

Paul Soliai


The inactives for Atlanta:


 S Kemel Ishmael

RB Steven Jackson

S Zeke Motta

LB Jamar Chaney

G/C Harland Gunn

LT Sam Baker

DT Travian Robertson


Fins are dressed in all white, as per usual.

The live blog will begin after the first quarter, so come back and check it out!

GO FINS

Gameday: Who has the edge? PLUS prediction

(Courtesy of Dolphins.com)

It is gameday in South Beach, as the Miami Dolphins and Atlanta Falcons are gearing up for their 4:05 kickoff from Sun Life Stadium.

This is the first time the Fins have been home (not counting preseason) since their December 23rd matchup with the Buffalo Bills.

I was at that game.  It was a LONG time ago.  A lot has changed with this team since then, and the expectations have never been higher heading into today's game.  The Atlanta Falcons come in beat up, which has been a focal point this week around the NFL.  However, this will still be a MONUMENTAL challenge for the young Miami Dolphins, as they look to move to 3-0 this season.

So, with that being said, who exactly has the edge in this ballgame?

I'm glad you asked.  Because I happen to have an answer:


When the Dolphins run the ball:  This will be an interesting matchup today for the Fins. Atlanta comes in ranked 8th against the rush, giving up only 73.5 yards per game. However, as I mentioned earlier, this is a beat up defense.  LB Sean Weatherspoon is out, as is DE Kroy Biermann, so you have to think the running duo of Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas will have better numbers today than there predecessors.  Speaking of that duo, they only averaged a measly 3.7 yards per carry last week against a weak Indianapolis defense.  While that was an improvement from week one (which isn't saying much), I still need to see more from these two to be sold on them.  Edge:  FALCONS

When the Falcons run the ball:  Now this is a matchup that I LOVE, and no, it's not because Steven Jackson is out.  Yes, that obviously adds to it, but, as I said earlier this week, I don't think Jackson would have posed that much of a threat today.  I like this matchup for two reasons:  One, this Fins run defense has something to prove, as they've been subpar through the first two weeks after dominating the run the last two years. Two, and most importantly, the Falcons just don't run the ball that much.  They're a pass first (second, and third) offense, and only go to the run to keep defenses on their toes.  I didn't expect Steven Jackson to have a big day, and I certainly don't expect Jason Snelling to have one. Edge:  DOLPHINS

When the Dolphins pass the ball:  The health of Ryan Tannehill has been somewhat of a storyline this week, as the QB is dealing with a bum throwing shoulder.  However, the kid seems to be ready to go, as I expected him to be, and could be poised for a big day. Atlanta has been torched through the first two games, giving up nearly 350 yards a game through the air, good for third worst in the NFL.  On top of that, CB Asante Samuel's status remains very much up in the air with a thigh injury.  This, combined with the growth from Ryan Tannehill, and his growing chemistry with WR Mike Wallace, could point to a big day for the Fins passing game.  Edge:  DOLPHINS

When the Falcons pass the ball:  Here's the matchup that will win, or lose, the game for the Miami Dolphins.  Matt Ryan is right on the precipice of "elite" status, and WR Julio Jones is already there.  This worries me from a Dolphins standpoint, even with Brent Grimes manning the corner.  The real wild card here is the defensive front.  Cameron Wake, Randy Starks, Jared Odrick, and Olivier Vernon/Dion Jordan MUST be ruthless in this game, from start to finish (and they should be, especially with OT Sam Baker out).

It doesn't stop with them, either.  Expect Kevin Coyle to throw a number of blitzes at Matt Ryan, something he loves to do, and expect this to be the game changer.  Matt Ryan LOVES to audible to screen passes (just look at the film), and if Ryan does this successfully today, then it could be a HUGE problem for this high risk/high reward style of defense Coyle runs.  This matchup right here will be the difference in this game today, bank on it.  Edge:  EVEN


PREDICTION

I've gone back and forth on this one, something I rarely do with the Miami Dolphins. Usually I just know, much like last week.  This game is different though.  Atlanta is beat up, on both sides of the ball, and that gives Miami the advantage to an extent.  However, as I said earlier this week, the fact that Matt Ryan and Julio Jones AREN'T those among the injured Falcons gives me a bad feeling.  I picked the Fins to lose this game in my preseason predictions, and while I'm tempted to stand by that here, I'll opt to take the optimistic approach (something I do sparingly) and say they pull this one out by the SLIGHTEST of margins.  I'm going out on limp here Joe Philbin, and going against my better judgement.  Don't make me regret it!

Final: Falcons 24 Dolphins 30


Alright, game time is ALMOST here!  The 2013 home opener is a mere six hours away, and the Fins and Falcons are getting ready to battle in South Beach.  Come back just before kickoff for any last minute updates, including the full list of today's inactives.

And, as always, follow the live, quarter by quarter blog, starting at the end of the first quarter.

Until then..

GO FINS

Week 3 in the NFL: Picks and predictions

It's that time again, lets do it.

Last week's record: 10-5

Overall record: 18-12


Houston @ Baltimore:  Starting off with a tough one?  I like it.  Baltimore has looked like a shell of their former Super Bowl winning team, and Ray Rice is doubtful.  That's a recipe for disaster against a 2-0 Houston team.  Give me the Texans on the road.

Detroit @ Washington:  This one is a coin flip for me.  Washington's secondary has been BRUTAL thus far, which bodes well for a high flying offense like Detroit's.  However, something tells me RGIII is primed for a big game here.  Give me the Redskins.

San Diego @ Tennessee:  The Titans have looked surprisingly good through the first two weeks, and now they get to go home.  However, Philip Rivers looks like a new QB under Mike McCoy.  I like Rivers and the Chargers to pick up another road win here.

Arizona @ New Orleans:  Welcome back Sean Payton.  He's got the Saints looking unstoppable right now.  Well, him and Drew Brees, who's a pretty good QB, no?  Give me the Saints at home any day of the week.

Tampa Bay @ New England:  The ugliest 2-0 start turns into the ugliest 3-0 start.  I'll take Tom and the Patriots.

Cleveland @ Minnesota:  No Trent Richardson, no problem.  Browns don't miss a beat, losing just as bad as they did with the young RB.  I'll take the Vikings.

N.Y. Giants @ Carolina:  Desperation game of the week, and Ron Rivera's seat is about to get that much hotter.  Give me the Giants on the road.

Green Bay @ Cincinnati:  Is it just me, or does Andy Dalton look like he's reached his ceiling?  Regardless, no way the third year QB can hang with Aaron Rodgers, especially when he's playing out of his mind right now.  I'll take the Packers.

St. Louis @ Dallas:  Tony Romo and Dez Bryant have been money so far, despite last weeks road loss to Kansas City.  I like the Cowboys to get back on track here in the house that Jerry built.

Buffalo @ N.Y. Jets:  Rookie QB Bowl!! I've been far more impressed with E.J. Manuel than I have been with Geno Smith.  Give me the Bills to move to a decent 2-1 here.

Jacksonville @ Seattle:  Well, this is awkward.  Lets just move on.  Seahawks.

Indianapolis @ San Francisco:  You know whats worse than facing the 49ers on the road?  Facing the 49ers on the road after a blowout loss.  Kaepernick and 49ers take care of business here.

Chicago @ Pittsburgh:  Couldn't of been a fun week of practice in Pittsburgh.  Did you see Mike Tomlin after Monday's loss?  Yikes.  Give me Big Ben and the Steelers to get on the board with a win here.

Oakland @ Denver:  Terrell Pryor could pose some problems, but they won't even come close to the problems Peyton Manning and that Denver offense will pose.  I'll take the Broncos.


Alright folks, that'll do it for now.  The Fins and Falcons are less than 24 hours away from kickoff in South Florida, where the quest for 3-0 will be on for the hosting Dolphins.

Tomorrow will be a huge day for this team.  They'll have a packed house for the first time in years, and could make some serious noise in the NFL with a win.

Do I think they do it?  Well, come back tomorrow morning and see!  I'll have your pre pre-game coverage in the morning, and your last minute pre-game coverage right before tomorrow's 4:05 kickoff from Sun Life Stadium.

Until then..

GO FINS

Wallace, Pouncey join Tannehill on final injury report; Soliai and Patterson out

Some more interesting names popped up on the final injury report for the Miami Dolphins today.

Mike Wallace was listed as questionable with a tweaked groin he injured earlier this week.

Center Mike Pouncey was also limited in practice with an ankle injury and is listed as questionable.

However, both these guys expect to play on Sunday barring some sort of setback.  They will have to be watched closely though.  Ankle injuries are scary for offensive lineman, as anything can happen in the trenches.  As far as Wallace goes, this groin injury held him out for two weeks during training camp, so this is nothing new.  Legs are EVERYTHING for wide receivers though, so pray Wallace doesn't aggravate it any more.

Ryan Tannehill was upgraded from questionable to probable today with his sore right shoulder.  The kid will play, there's never been any doubt about that.  But, as I said earlier this week, protecting him will be MORE critical this ever.

Paul Soliai has been ruled out, which comes as no surprise.  Soliai has not practiced all week after exiting Sunday's game with a knee injury, and we still don't know the extent of the injury.  This doesn't concern me too much, especially with Steven Jackson not playing.  Randy Starks and Jared Odrick will fill in just fine.  In-fact, I tend to like the rotation when it features Starks and Odrick together.  It's a faster defensive line, which will be a better matchup against pass heavy Atlanta.

CB Dimitri Patterson has also been ruled out with a lingering leg injury.  That means we'll get another helpful dose of Nolan Carroll this week.  He was fantastic against Indianapolis, but can he be consistent?  We'll see.

It does appear, however, that Carroll will get some help, as rookies Will Davis and Jamar Taylor are close to returning.  Both practiced in full today and are probable for the game.

FS Chris Clemons is listed as questionable, but says he'll play.

LB Koa Misi is also questionable.  Like Clemons, I expect him to play.

As for the Falcons, OT Sam Baker and RB Steven Jackson have been ruled out for Sunday.  WR's Julio Jones and Roddy White, and CB Asante Samuel, are all questionable.

Come back tomorrow for your week three predictions!

Two days.

Tannehill being on latest injury report is something to monitor

The Dolphins released their weekly injury report today, as they do every Wednesday.

Chris Clemons was on it with a hamstring issue.  I expect him to play.

Paul Soliai was on it after leaving Sunday's game with a knee injury.  He hasn't practiced all week and I'd be surprised if he played.

Dimitri Patterson was on it, as he was last week with a groin injury.  He's someone I also expect to play this week.

Then there was Ryan Tannehill, a name that took everybody by surprise.

If you remember back to the third quarter against Indianapolis, then you'll know why. Tannehill was sacked on a third down play, and got up with his right arm hanging.  When he got to the sidelines he was in noticeable discomfort, but shook it off and played the rest of the game just fine.

This concerns me, as it should you too.  Tannehill has been sacked a league high nine times.  He's on pace to be sacked 72 times this year, which would fly by the team record of 53 set in 1969.

Tyson Clabo has so far been a huge disappointment on the right side, and John Jerry, who missed most of the preseason, has been good, not great.  Mike Pouncey has been his usual stellar self, Richie Incognito has been solid for the most part, and Jonathan Martin has been pretty quiet, which is a good thing.

However, every one of these guys can do better.  They MUST do better.  If they don't, then I don't see Tannehill getting through 16 games this year.  The kid is tough, but nobody can be dropped 72 a season and just get back up 72 times, you just can't do it.  

You shouldn't have to do it.

Another person this could effect: Lamar Miller.  It's no secret that Daniel Thomas is the better pass blocker out of the two, and depending on how concerned the Dolphins are with Tannehill's health, don't be surprised to see a lot more Thomas and a lot less Miller.

Tannehill will be fine to play Sunday; he's practiced all week without any problems, limitations, or even a brace.  But this is absolutely a situation that should be monitored closely going forward, starting this Sunday.

As much as I love Matt Moore, it's in the Fins' best interest to keep him on the sidelines this year.

The protection MUST improve.

Quickly.

Message to Dol-fans: Looking past depleted Falcons is foolish

Steven Jackson is out.

Roddy White is banged up.

LB Sean Weatherspoon has been placed on IR, where he'll join starting DE Kroy Biermann.

CB Asante Samuel's status is up in the air.

This has been all the talk out of South Florida this week.  The Falcons are too banged up.  The Fins should easily beat them now.  The offense should put up 400 yards on that defense now.  Bring on the Saints!  3-0 baby!

Wait?  What?

Is Matt Ryan hurt?

How about Julio Jones?

Tony Gonzalez?

Osi Umenyiora?

They're not?  So let me get this straight:

One of the best QB's in the league (who has a 107.9 QB rating this season) is playing. One of the best WR's in the league (18 catches, 258 yards, 2 TD's so far) is playing.  A first ballot Hall of Famer TE is playing (Do the Fins struggle with TE's, I don't remember?).  And a proven pass rusher (who has an INT return for a TD this season) is playing.

And just because of a few injuries we're supposed to toss these guys aside like they're old news?

Please, please, PLEASE think again.  And think carefully.  Because I got news for you, this is going to be an incredible challenge for the 2-0 Miami Dolphins.

Matt Ryan has been hot this season.  Julio Jones is a matchup nightmare, even for Brent Grimes.  Tony Gonzalez should scare the you-know-what out of you, especially given the track record against TE's.  And this isn't your ordinary TE like, say, Jordan Cameron or Colby Fleener.  No, this is one of, if not the best, in the business.

And don't sleep on Osi Umenyiora.  Heck, don't sleep on the entire defensive line.  No, they haven't performed great this season.  YET.  But they have the talent to do so (Umenyiora, Babineaux, Peters), and the Fins offensive line hasn't exactly been stout.

Look, am I saying I don't like Miami's chances given the circumstances?  No.  You're coming off two huge victories on the road.  It's your home opener, and it'll be a sold out (you read that right) Sun Life Stadium.  And you're going against a defense that's struggled through the first two games, without their best LB and possibly best CB.

HOWEVER, all I'm saying is don't forget about that Atlanta offense, because it's pretty darn good, Steven Jackson or not.  In-fact, lets be honest, Steven Jackson would have had little to no impact in this game.  The Fins DO NOT STRUGGLE with big, power backs.

Look at Marshawn Lynch last season.

Look at, hm, who else?

Oh, that's right, Steven Jackson.  He did nothing against this defense when he was a Ram, and I suspect he would have done nothing against them as a Falcon if he were to play.

So please, don't look to much into that.

Bottom line?  This game will come down to which defense can get more stops.

And, unfortunately, Matt Ryan and Julio Jones are NOT on the injury report.

Don't look past Atlanta.  This game will be a monumental challenge.

With 2-0 start, confidence growing in 2013 Miami Dolphins; national perspective changing?

At various times throughout the game on Sunday I caught myself feeling something I've really never felt while watching the Miami Dolphins.

Confidence.

It almost feels weird to type it.

For instance, whenever Ryan Tannehill would drop back to pass, I wouldn't shut my eyes, hold my breath, or grind my teeth like I would have in years past.

Ahem, Chad Henne.

No, I felt confident in Tannehill.  I TRUSTED Tannehill.  I knew he had three legitimate options to throw to in Mike Wallace, Brian Hartline, and Bradon Gibson.  And I knew he had matured enough to make the right decision.

I was right.  Tannehill had another stellar performance, something that us fans are becoming used to.

Did I just type that?

Then, you had the defense on that final drive by the "almighty" Andrew Luck (By now you know that I'm not a big Luck guy, so deal with the air quotes).  Was I nervous? Sure, who wasn't?

But this was a different kind of nervous then in years past.  For instance, last season in this same game, against the same QB, you just knew deep down that it wasn't going to end well.  But this time around, it was more of an excited nervous.

Excited to see WHO was going to make the big play.  Was it going to be a Cam Wake sack?  A Brent Grimes INT?  What?

In this instance, it was Philip Wheeler, who capped off a fabulous performance with a fourth down sack to clinch the victory for the Miami Dolphins.

In years past, I would have been pleasantly surprised by this.  But Sunday I EXPECTED it.

And again, I was right.

These new look 2013 Miami Dolphins are different from past teams in so many ways. They're faster, better coached, more mature.  They have a QUARTERBACK.  They have a star receiver.  They have playmakers on both sides of the football.

They also have a 2-0 record without having played in South Florida.

They're confident right now.

So are we.

NATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

I wrote last week that with a win on Sunday things would begin to change for the Fins, and they have.

CBS Sports released there Power Rankings this morning, and had the Dolphins at number 10.

SI.com has an article on their FRONT PAGE this morning going inside the Dolphins defense on their final drive against the Colts.

NFL Network's Jeff Garcia called Miami the most impressive 2-0 team.

CBS Sports' Pete Prisco, who had the Fins going 6-10 this season, has already started eating his words (something he's used to), saying yesterday that Mike Wallace was worth the $60 million Miami paid him.

Listen, I don't care much for national attention, and neither do the Fins.  But, like I said, a statement win like Sunday's will raise some eyebrows, and it has.  

The Dolphins are on everybody's radar now.

They have a semi-primetime matchup this week against Atlanta (4:05), a Monday nighter next week in New Orleans, and then they welcome in the Super Bowl champs.

Buckle up.  These next three weeks are EVERYTHING.

With 24-20 win, Tannehill, Dolphins vault onto 2013 NFL landscape

Can't be many doubters after that.

This team is for real.  And they proved it today.

Ryan Tannehill out-dueled Andrew Luck in their second career matchup, and this one was just as thrilling as the first.

Following an Adam Vinateri missed FG, Tannehill marched the Fins down field, culminating in an 18 yard TD pass off a bubble screen to, who else, Mike Wallace.

Wallace had three catches on the opening drive, and finished the day with a career high nine for 115 yards.

Following an Indianapolis FG, Tannehill marched the Fins down field again, with the big play coming on a 64 yard strike to Charles Clay that set up Miami with a first and goal. Lamar Miller would take it 10 yards for a TD on the next play.

Clay had a career day as well, catching five passes for 109 yards.

With the game tied at 17 at the half, Indianapolis struck first in the third quarter following a Ryan Tannehill fumble.  However, even with good field position, Andrew Luck and the Colts could only muster up a FG.

Miami would respond, going 6 plays for 69 yards in under three minutes ending with a Charles Clay one yard TD run.  The big play on the drive went to Mike Wallace, who hauled in a 34 yard pass from Tannehill to set up first and goal on the one.

Clinging to a four point lead, and backed up against their own end zone, the Miami defense took over with under seven minutes to play.  Brent Grimes picked off Luck in the end zone, giving the ball back to Miami.  After a punt, Andrew Luck took over with under four minutes left, and marched down the field.  However, this day belonged to the Miami Dolphins, as Philip Wheeler sacked Luck on 4th and 10 to seal the deal.

Tannehill finished the day 23-34, 319 yards, and a TD.

Luck finished the day 25-43, 321 yards, a TD and an INT.

The Dolphins are now 2-0 for only the second time in the last decade, and head home for their home opener against the Atlanta Falcons (1-1).

More to come.

Fins, Colts set to kick off week 2; the inactives

Less than an hour away from kickoff, here are the inactives for both teams:


Colts Inactives:

26-Delano Howell
53 -Kavell Conner
62 -Khaled Holmes
72 -Jeff Linkenbach
83 -Dwayne Allen
85 -David Reed
94 -Montori Hughes


Dolphins Inactives:


LB Josh Kaddu
QB Pat Devlin
CB Jamar Taylor
CB Will Davis
OL Dallas Thomas
RB Mike Gillislee
OL Danny Watkins

CB Dimitri Patterson WILL be active today, but Nolan Carroll will start in his place.  How much Patterson will play today is unknown.

Fins are in all white.  Colts in the blue tops and white pants.

NO live blog today, but check back after the game for news and analysis.

GO FINS

Gameday: Three keys to a 2-0 start PLUS prediction

(Courtesy of Dolphins.com)

It's game day in Indianapolis, as the Fins and Colts are just under three hours away from kicking off week two in the NFL.  Both teams are coming off victories, and one will leave today's game with a big and pretty 2-0 record.  Who will it be?

If it's to be the Fins, here how they do it:


1.  SACKS, SACKS, SACKS.  I told you about it earlier in the week, and I'll reiterate it here:  Simply putting pressure on Andrew Luck IS NOT GOOD ENOUGH.  He showed us that last season, and he'll show us again today if Miami fails to take him down.  Don't let the kid break away.  Wrap up, and bring him down.

2.  Establish a ground game.  0.9 yards a carry won't work in pee-wee football, much less the NFL.  Lamar Miller, Daniel Thomas, and the offensive line NEED to correct this issue today, and they should against a shaky Colts run defense.  Ryan Tannehill, as we saw last week, can win a football game for his team without a running game, but that was against the Cleveland Browns.  The Fins must find a way to establish a ground attack today, or that Indy front four will feast on Tannehill.

3.  Get Mike Wallace INVOLVED.  The star WR has only played in Indianapolis once before, but he had a big game for himself, catching 5 passes for 144 yards, and a TD. The Fins must utilize the artificial turf with Wallace's speed, and create some big plays out of it.  And if the long ball isn't working, ADJUST.  Slant routes, bubble screens, crossing patterns, etc.. GET HIM THE BALL.  No excuses not to get your best playmakers involved.  Period.


PREDICTION

I like the Miami Dolphins in this football game.  They have the better defense, and, more importantly, the better defensive line.  I expect those front four guys to get after Andrew Luck today, early and often, and create havoc for the second year QB.  If they can do that on a consistent basis, and the offense can run the ball against a vulnerable defense, and get Mike Wallace involved, then I think the Miami Dolphins have a great shot at winning this football game.

Final: Dolphins 27 Colts 24


Come back later for last minute news, plus the inactives for both teams.  There will be NO live blog today, so check back after the game for all your news and analysis. Kickoff is less than three hours away!

GO FINS  

Week 2 in the NFL: Picks and predictions

Last week's record:  8-7

Overall record:  8-7



St. Louis @ Atlanta:  Good ball game here, but I'll take the Falcons going 1-1 over the Rams going 2-0.  Give me Matt Ryan and the birds.

San Diego @ Philadelphia:  Chip Kelly said the offense was slow on Monday night.  Yikes.  I like the Eagles in this one.

Dallas @ Kansas City:  The Chiefs are the popular pick here, but Dallas is not Jacksonville, not even close.  Give me the Cowboys to spoil Andy Reids home opener.

Tennessee @ Houston:  That Titans defense looked good last week, but I don't think they're ready to stop Andre Johnson and Arian Foster on a consistent basis.  I'll take the Texans.

Washington @ Green Bay:  It's interesting that one of these playoff teams will be 0-2 after tomorrow.  I don't see Aaron Rodgers allowing that to happen on his watch.  Give me the Packers.

Cleveland @ Baltimore:  Yikes, Brandon Weeden.  Yikes, Cleveland WR's.  Give me the Ravens.

Carolina @ Buffalo:  Cam Newton had PLENTY of chances to beat Russell Wilson last week, and he couldn't get it done.  I think he finds beating E.J. Manuel a little easier. Give me the Panthers.

Minnesota @ Chicago:  If the Vikings are to pull this one off, it'll be Adrian Peterson's finest hour, because his QB is a catastrophe.  I like the Bears at home.

New Orleans @ Tampa Bay:  Josh freeman<Drew Brees.  I'll take the Saints.

Detroit @ Arizona:  That Lions offense looked lethal last week, huh?  Good for Reggie Bush, can't not be happy for the guy.  Give me Bush and the Lions to keep rollin' this week.

Jacksonville @ Oakland:  Terrell Pryor!!!! Kid was fun to watch last week, and he'll be REALLY fun to watch this week against an awful Jaguars team.  Give me the Raiders.

Denver @ N.Y. Giants:  Manning Bowl III.  I'm the biggest Peyton Manning out there, believe me.  But something tells me that Eli gets the best of him here.  Give me the Giants in a mini upset.

San Francisco @ Seattle:  This one is a coin flip to me, it really is.  Colin Kaepernick looked terrific a week ago, but beating Seattle in their own house may be the toughest thing to do in the NFL.  Just ask Tom Brady, or Aaron Rodgers, or ANY OTHER QB who played them in Seattle a year ago, because they all LOST.  Give me the Seahawks in a thrilling Sunday night affair.

Pittsburgh @ Cincinnati:  The AFC North is tight right now.  It's all tied up after one week!  Because every team lost.  Didn't see that one coming.  I like the Bengals, but I'd be careful here.  A ticked off Mike Tomlin and Ben Roethlisberger is not what I'd want to see if I were Marvin Lewis.  This one could come down to the wire.


Come back in the morning for all your Miami Dolphins pre-game coverage, including, as always, my prediction.

Until then..

GO FINS

In taking down Luck, Ryan Tannehill could jump into young QB spotlight

He was the eighth overall selection in the 2012 NFL draft.

He was the first rookie QB to start all 16 games for the Miami Dolphins since... ever.

He took over a team with no legitimate WR's except Brian Hartline, led by a first time head coach, and led them to a surprising 7-9 season.

All of this while only playing 19 career games under center.

Nineteen.

Yet, even after taking down two of his four sophomore counterparts (Russell Wilson and Brandon Weeden), Ryan Tannehill remains under the radar.

For now.

This time tomorrow, if everything falls into place, the spotlight that's shone so brightly on RGIII, Russell Wilson, and Andrew Luck will gain a new member.

Yes, this game means much more than a possible 2-0 record heading home.

For better or worse, this game defines the QB Ryan Tannehill is, and the QB he's going to be.

He went toe to toe with Andrew Luck for three quarters a season ago, but came up short in the waning minutes.  Despite a good, if not great, showing, Tannehill was deemed inferior to the almighty Luck.

And his status remains unchanged a year later.  Despite beating Russell Wilson, Andy Dalton, Carson Palmer, and former first overall pick Sam Bradford, the order still looks like this:

1. Andrew Luck

2. RGII

3. Russell Wilson

4. Ryan Tannehill

And for good reason.  Actually, really only for one reason:  Playoffs.

Luck took his team to the postseason, so did RGIII, so did Russell Wilson.  In any other season, any other draft class, what Tannehill did last season, with the team he did it with, would have been the story.

But, again, for good reason, Tannehill simply got lost in the shuffle.

So now, on the eve of their second duel in as many years, Ryan Tannehill and Andrew Luck remain separated in status.  Luck reigns superior, while Tannehill sits at a distant second.

But a Miami Dolphins win tomorrow changes that in an instant.

The stage is set.

The spotlight is Tannehill's for the taking.

QB pressure MUST turn into sacks against Andrew Luck; other notes

This was a game the Fins had last season.  If EVER they let one get away, it was week nine against the Colts.

They led at halftime, 17-13, and had a chance to win the game late in the fourth quarter.

But my biggest take away from a year ago?  The MISSED opportunities.

Seven QB pressures.  One QB sack.

Seven times Andrew Luck was running for his life, had a hand on him, or was halfway taken to the ground.

And SIX of those seven times he got out of it, sometimes in Houdini-esque fashion.  You see, this is what makes Luck so special (although I STILL don't buy it).  His ability to extend the play, and turn a sack into a first down or TD, separates him from the rest of the pack.

It will be beyond critical for the Miami defense to TAKE LUCK DOWN.  They failed miserably to do this last season, and it caused them the football game.  Make the same mistake twice?

Fool me once, shame on you.

Fool me twice, shame on me.

Putting pressure on Luck, as we learned a season ago, simply won't do.  You MUST take him down.


OTHER NOTES:

• Another critical area in this football game will be third down conversions.  A year ago, the Fins were a measly 4/11 on third downs.  The Colts?  Well, they went 13/19.  Yes, you read that right.  THIRTEEN OF NINETEEN.  I can't remember a more frustrating stat from the 2012 season then that.  Just can't win like this.
• Ryan Tannehill told the media yesterday that everything was fine with WR Mike Wallace, and that he wouldn't force the football to him just to do so.
• Miami ranks DEAD last in rushing yards.  No surprise there.  Indianapolis ranks second to last in stopping the run.  Gotta think the Fins do better on the ground this week.  It can't get any worse, can it?
• The Fins were off today due to a schedule change made by Joe Philbin. Usually, NFL teams will take Tuesday off and practice on Thursday during game weeks.  Philbin, however, believes the team is fresher when given Thursday off, and says he's received mostly positive feedback.

More tomorrow.

Three. Days.

What must change, stay the same, for Dolphins in week two

As you probably know by now, there were some really good things, and some not so good things, that the Fins showed us Sunday in Cleveland.

As we've now moved on to Colts week, it will be CRITICAL for Miami to stay consistent in the things they did well, and to improve in the areas they struggled in if they want to head home 2-0.  This is a HUGE game for this team, folks, lets not kid ourselves.  Going into this three game stretch 2-0, rather than 1-1, would be a HUGE advantage for the Fins.

Not to mention a win against a playoff team like Indianapolis would certainly put Miami on the map, as well as give them a key AFC win.

Enjoy.


What MUST change:

1.  The offensive line.  Even though the pass protection was better in the second half, Ryan Tannehill still took WAY to many hits on Sunday.  The young QB needs TIME to throw the football, especially if he wants to get Mike Wallace involved deep down field, so every member of the offensive line needs to STEP UP.  And please, please, PLEASE don't get me started on the run protection.  We all know the stats, we all know it was horrendous.  I'm not saying this was ALL on the line, but they certainly contributed to it.  It needs to get better all around, plain and simple.

2.  Lamar Miller and Daniel Thomas.  23 carries for 20 yards.  Absolutely, unequivocally the WORST rushing performance I have EVER seen in my decade plus of following the Miami Dolphins.  Towards the end of the game, it was considered a good run if they got back to the line of scrimmage.  This goes on them, the offensive line, and the play-calling.  Everybody needs to do better, from top to bottom, or it will be a huge problem on Sunday.

3.  Special Teams.  I'll make this one short and sweet:  The Dolphins today rank 31st in the NFL in punt return defense and they rank 25th in kick return defense.  Andrew Luck doesn't need a shorter field to work with (although I STILL think he's overrated).

4.  Mike Wallace.  Obvious?  One catch isn't gonna cut it on Sunday, and I don't expect this to be the case.  To be honest, I wouldn't be surprised to see Wallace end the day with double digit catches.  Yes, that's how much I expect him to contribute on Sunday. The Fins will need him, especially if this one turns into a shootout.

What MUST stay the same:

1.  The defense.  You've all seen the stats by this point- this unit DOMINATED on Sunday.  The defensive line is one of the most complete units in the NFL, sacking Brandon Weeden six times, and the secondary contributed three INT's and were rarely ever beaten.  Keep putting pressure on Luck, keep stuffing the run, and keep a close eye on Reggie Wayne.  Do that, and it'll be another dominant day on defense.

2.  Ryan Tannehill.  He was poised, composed, accurate, and smart on Sunday.  He even led a big time fourth quarter drive to seal the game.  Tannehill needs to be this same QB and more on Sunday, as I expect this game to come down to him against Luck, much like last year.  Don't force it to Wallace, take what the defense gives you, and be accurate with your throws.  That's the recipe for Tannehill.

3.  Third down conversions.  This goes for both units, as both dominated in this category on Sunday.  Defensively, the Fins held Cleveland to an embarrassing 1-14 on third down.  Offensively, Miami converted 8-16 third downs, which is a GIGANTIC improvement from a year ago.  Do this again on Sunday and it'll be a long day for the home team.

4.  Brandon Gibson and Brian Hartline.  Can't say enough about these two after their day's on Sunday.  Gibson made some crucial down catches, and Hartline was EVERYWHERE, including the endzone.  Both were big time security blankets for Tannehill, especially with Mike Wallace double covered.  Gotta keep it up this week. The more options the better.

Dominant defense steals the show, but fourth quarter drive deserves the spotlight

Yes, the day belonged to the Miami defense.

With every Dimitri Patterson interception, every Cam Wake sack, every failed third down conversion, you knew this defense was something special.

Just ask Brandon Weeden, the beaten and battered Cleveland QB who threw three INT's yesterday, and took twice as many sacks.

"That’s a good front,” Weeden told reporters after the game. "They get after the passer. They create havoc."

"Things didn't go great today."

Indeed, this Miami Dolphins defense certainly stole the show yesterday.

But the spotlight?  In my humble opinion, that should shine big and bright on the biggest, most important offensive drive of the game.

Fourth quarter, 11:54 left to play, and a measly 13-10 lead on the road.  Enter Ryan Tannehill and the Miami Dolphins offense at their own 15 yard line.  A three and out, and Cleveland gets the ball back near midfield, needing only a FG to tie with a little under ten minutes left.

We've all seen this movie before.  We saw it last year, we've seen it every year, more times than not, since Dan Marino, for lack of a better phrase, left the building.  Three and out, punt, and an eventual Cleveland win.  It's a Hollywood script that's had more sequels in South Beach than CSI: Miami.

But not yesterday.

24 yard pass to Brandon Gibson.

16 more to Brian Hartline.

Gibson again for 14 yards.

7 more to Hartline.

6 more to Gibson.

One more time to Hartline for 11 yards.

And Daniel Thomas with the final blow- a two yard leap into the end zone.

Ten plays, 85 yards, a double digit lead with five minutes to play, and an empty stadium.

On a day where the running game was nonexistent, the pass protection was horrendous (at least in the first half), and the star $60 million dollar WR was nothing more than a decoy, Ryan Tannehill put the franchise on his back, and won the game.

6-7, 78 yards, and a fourth quarter, game sealing, TD drive.

The sophomore QB did what he failed so many times to do a season ago:  Win a game in the fourth quarter.  He couldn't do it against the Jets, or Arizona, or Indianapolis, or Buffalo, or the Patriots.  With the game hanging in the balance, where a FG simply wouldn't be enough, Ryan Tannehill took over deep inside his own territory, and took over.

Yes, the kid still has his flaws.  Yes, Mike Wallace needs to be more than a decoy.  But with every pass, and every first down, Tannehill erased all those missed opportunities of a year ago.

That's something Brandon Weeden, as we saw, can't do.  That's something a lot of QB's in this league can't do.

The defense was the star of yesterday's season opening win in Cleveland, no doubt about it.

But it was Ryan Tannehill who put the team on his back in the final minutes.

And it's Ryan Tannehill who deserves the spotlight because of it.