The Miami Dolphins' preseason opener against the Commanders was a mixed bag, with several standout performances and areas for improvement. While the final score didn't reflect it, the Dolphins made significant strides in key areas, particularly on offense. Here's a detailed breakdown of the game, with a heavy focus on personal commentary and analysis.
Running Backs: A Solid Start
De'Von Achane and Ollie Gordon II both had impressive performances, each rushing for 39 yards on seven carries. Achane, in particular, showcased his talent with a touchdown on the opening drive, capping off a masterful 14-play, 93-yard drive. Personally, I think Achane is the franchise running back, but he'll need help to share the load in a ground game that should be a key strength this season. Gordon, on the other hand, didn't find the end zone, but his performance was still solid. The Dolphins' running backs averaged more than 5 yards per rush, which is a promising sign for a team that plans to rely heavily on the run game.
Wide Receivers: A Work in Progress
The wide receiver position is likely the biggest pressure point on the roster. Malik Willis, the quarterback, completed just eight passes on the night, with three of them going to Malik Washington. Washington appears to be in line to be the team's top receiver early in the year. However, the lack of depth and talent surrounding Willis is a concern. The Dolphins need to surround Willis with more talent on the outside to give him a better chance of success. In my opinion, this is a critical area for improvement, and the team will need to address it during the season.
Offensive Line: Positive Signs, but Concerns Remain
Offensive line depth is a unicorn in the NFL, and unfortunately, the Dolphins haven't found it yet. Both of Cam Miller's interceptions late in the game came on plays where there were unblocked defenders right in the face of the quarterback. However, there were some positive signs in the run game, with Achane and Gordon averaging more than 5 yards per carry. The starters will be good, but the last two games will be key for roster spots on the back end of the depth chart. The offensive line needs to be at full strength for most of the season, and the team will need to address this area during the season.
Defensive Line: Struggles in the Run Game
The Dolphins' defensive line struggled in the run game, giving up 174 yards and both of the Commanders' touchdowns on the ground. Kaytron Allen and Robert Henry Jr. gashed the Dolphins' reserves for significant yardage. However, the reserves on the defensive line did give some reason for hope with edges Mason Rieger and Cameron Goode getting one sack apiece. The team needs to improve its run defense, and the defensive line will need to step up to give the starters a breather.
Linebackers: Missing Jordyn Brooks, but Potential
The linebackers were missing Jordyn Brooks on Friday night, but the reserves, including Willie Gay Jr. and Jacob Rodriguez, showed potential. Gay led the team in solo tackles with four, and Rodriguez got his first taste of action. However, the team needs to make more splash plays and improve its run defense, as giving up 170-plus yards on the ground is not sustainable. The linebackers need to step up and make more plays to help the defense.
Defensive Backs: Solid Performance, but Room for Improvement
The Dolphins' defensive backs had a solid performance, giving up just 160 yards through the air without allowing a touchdown pass. Marco Wilson, in particular, made a splash play by intercepting a pass in the first quarter. However, the team needs to improve its run defense and make more splash plays to help the defense. The safeties didn't make any plays of note, but the Dolphins are in good hands with Jeff Hafley's expertise.
Special Teams: Solid, but Unspectacular
The Dolphins' special teams were solid, if unspectacular. Bradley Pinion kicked six times for an average of 44.8 yards, and the coverage units were solid, allowing only two returns. However, the team needs to improve its return game, as the Dolphins allowed a return of 30 yards by Robert Henry Jr. The special teams need to be more consistent and make more plays to help the team.
In conclusion, the Dolphins' preseason opener was a mixed bag, with several standout performances and areas for improvement. The team made significant strides in key areas, particularly on offense, but there are still concerns that need to be addressed. The Dolphins will need to improve their run defense, address the wide receiver position, and find depth for the offensive line. With a few more games to go in the preseason, the team will need to continue to work on these areas to be ready for the regular season.
