The Miami Dolphins' 33-8 loss to the Indianapolis Colts was a resounding defeat, leaving many questioning the team's performance across the board. ESPN's Dan Orlovsky aptly summarized the game as a "total mess" on both sides of the ball. Let's delve into the specifics, analyzing individual and unit performances based on snap counts and Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades.
The most concerning aspect is the continued regression of the Tua Tagovailoa-Mike McDaniel partnership. While the duo enjoyed significant success early in their tenure, the Dolphins' recent record paints a worrying picture. Since Christmas Day 2023, the team has slumped to a 6-9 record in games started by Tagovailoa, marked by a concerning 14 interceptions and eight fumbles. Against the Colts, Tagovailoa's performance was particularly dismal, throwing for a mere 114 yards and registering a paltry 51.7 passer rating—second-worst in the league. His yards per attempt have plummeted from a league-leading 8.9 in 2022 to a dismal 5.0. Tagovailoa himself acknowledged the poor performance, highlighting a particularly "terrible" interception and expressing his intention to review the game film with teammates.
The offensive line also showed significant vulnerabilities. While left tackle Patrick Paul and center Aaron Brewer shone, earning top PFF grades, injuries significantly impacted the unit's stability. James Daniels and Austin Jackson both left the game early due to injuries, forcing the Dolphins to rely on backups. Rookie left guard Jonah Savaiinaea struggled, receiving the team's lowest PFF grade among heavily utilized offensive players. While Larry Borom, replacing Jackson, performed well, the inconsistency on the line undoubtedly hindered the offense's effectiveness. The limited offensive snaps (48 compared to the Colts' 73) further exacerbated these issues.
Despite the overall offensive struggles, rookie running back De'Von Achane showed promise, featuring heavily (35 snaps) and making the most of his opportunities. He averaged an impressive 7.9 yards per carry and secured his 10th touchdown of the season, an impressive feat for a rookie. While other running backs like Ollie Gordon II saw limited action, Achane's performance offers a glimmer of hope for the team's ground game.
On the defensive side, the Dolphins had a mixed bag. Linebacker Jordyn Brooks' 14 tackles and Tyrel Dodson's 13 represented a notable performance, marking only the second time since 2000 that two Dolphins players have achieved this in a single game. However, the pass rush lacked impact, with only one sack and four combined pressures from the team's top edge rushers. Rookie Dante Trader Jr.'s impressive performance, earning him a high PFF grade, was a surprise highlight, while injuries to key players such as Storm Duck further hampered defensive efforts.
The game showcased a concerning trend of inconsistency and vulnerability across the team. The Dolphins will need significant improvements and a strong focus on addressing their offensive and defensive line issues to turn their season around. The reliance on rookie players while dealing with injuries also points towards a need for stronger depth in the coming seasons.
---
Originally published at: https://www.miamiherald.com/sports/nfl/miami-dolphins/article311913363.html
