There is real potential that McDaniel could finally fix the Dolphins anemic rushing game, which will be a huge help to Tua’s continued development. But, will that potential actually become a reality?
Can McDaniel ACTUALLY deliver a physical offense?
Coach Flores never placed any value on the running game, and this was never more evident than Miami bypassing top quality running backs in the last two drafts. Even though this is now a passing league, the most efficient offenses are still the ones that generate a steady rushing attack that provides a more balanced offense.
But, there is talk and there is action… we’ll see soon enough what is what.
With McDaniel taking over, the best bookmaker software provider is betting that he’ll immediately look to upgrade our rushing attack. His attention to detail on outside zone schemes in the running game, which was a staple of his rushing schemes in San Francisco, could bring us back to our last short lived success in the run game with Jay Ajayi in 2019. He also likes to utilize a lot of pulling blockers with a fullback and big bodied wide receivers to help with the perimeter blocking. In addition, McDaniel may very well use a player like Waddle, similar to how he used WR Deebo Samuel in the running game. He also has used big defensive lineman as fullbacks, so a player like Christian Wilkins may get some opportunities on offense.
This could be very interesting, if it plays out as hoped
Since Miami is stuck with the 49ers first round pick, which is at the end of the first round, this may finally be the time Miami drafts a running back early in the draft. The one benefit of drafting very late in the first round is that top rated running backs in the draft are often still available. So, this might be the perfect opportunity for Miami to finally show their commitment to a running game by using their first round pick on a stud running back.
Also, there is an interesting player in Cordarrelle Patterson, who is set to become an unrestricted free agent this upcoming season. Patterson has been in the league for 8 years but has played mainly as a wide receiver and kick return specialist. However, this past season he was used also as a running back and led the Falcons in rushing with 618 yards on 153 attempts for a 4.0 average and 6 touchdowns. In addition, he also added 52 receptions for 548 yards and 5 touchdowns, which is a ton of production. Patterson is big and fast and in McDaniel’s rushing schemes, he could be used in a lot of creative ways.
This offseason for Miami is as big as it gets for a franchise
Miami has a ton of cap space, and Patterson might not end up being expensive. If Patterson was also paired with a first round running back with Duke Johnson, and Gaskin or Lindsay, Miami might be on their way to finally having a rushing attack that scares opposing defenses.
The Phins have had two great rushing attacks: the early 70s with Kiick, Morris, and Czonka and with Ricky Williams in the early 2000’s. Maybe this could be third era where teams fear a very potent Dolphins rushing attack? Let’s hope so!
What are the rest of the Miami Dolphins News fans thoughts on new head coach and what he can hopefully bring to the table?
