Phins could be very healthy vs Commanders or very thin on starters
The great news is the Miami Dolphins had all 53 players at practice today to prepare for their road game vs the Washington Commanders. The best news is that questions about De’von Achane and Robert Hunt’s availability received an almost green light response from Head Coach Mike McDaniel. But, despite everyone at practice, it doesn’t seem like everyone will be ‘good to go’ on Sunday–although, you never know.
Terron, Connor, and Hunt… ‘Oh MY’!
Since I’ve been writing here I’ve always talked about the offensive line as a key to success. Despite the success this season, the blocking has been a lesser factor compared to Tua’s release and throwing anticipation, Waddle and Hill’s flash-like speed, and Mike McDaniel’s scheme and calls for quick throws at depth. But, it looks like we’ll get to see Terron, Connor, and Hunt together this week to drive Raheem Mostert AND De’von Achane. This combo could turn this offense back into an unstoppable force.
Certainly, Connor is back with Robert Hunt, who finally doesn’t have an injury designation. The dynamic duo is back and that’s an early Christmas present for sure. Will Terron Armstead also make it back? As crazy as it sounds, Terron says he’s playing this week. Is it going to happen? Is it the wisest move on what could be a rain-slick field? I don’t know. I do know if anyone can pull it off it’s Terron Armstead. Say what you want about his injury history, but this guy is a true warrior and loves the game and his team. Terron is the consummate pro in both skill and character.
Holland injured both knees vs the Jets!
Jevon Holland is as big a piece to this defense as there is, but he injured both knees against the Jets and it looks like he won’t be playing this week. You never know. Still, the tea leaves are pointing in that direction. This will leave Deshaun Elliot and Brandon Jones in charge of the top of the defense. While Elliot has played stellar and Jones did fine in his limited starting role, both had Holland with them to support them. You can bet with the best pay per head that Holland made their jobs a whole lot more manageable, so it will be very interesting to see what they do without him.
Offensive linemen Lester Cotton, Robert Jones, and Kendall Lamm are the only others with questionable status. This means the Dolphins could have their full complement this week and maybe finally start to get healthy for this critical last stretch of the season.
Winning is THE key to this game, but health has got to be a very close second key, so let’s hope our Phins can stick the landing on both! Go Phins!!!