As the Dolphins prepare for the Ravens, there are some tidbits to think about.
Miami gets to prepare this week with their starters on the left side of the O-Line.
With two days left to prepare for the Ravens, the Dolphins have some news, tidbits and items worthy of reflection.
The primary news that should bring a lot of hope for the franchise and its fans, Laremy Tunsil and Branden Albert have begun to practice on a limited basis and have a decent chance to play this week.
Considering Miami’s resurgence coincided with the return of the starters on its line, this is big news if even one of the two can play against the Ravens.
On a down note, Mike Pouncey will not play again this week…and another bummer is right guard Jermon Bushrod was limited Wednesday with a calf injury.
And one more bit from Negative Nelly as I go for the trifecta, defensive tackle Leon Orr was arrested Tuesday and faces charges for possession of marijuana and a controlled substance. He was promptly cut in response. While the best pay per head sportsbook isn’t betting on this to be a disaster, with Earl Mitchell missing practice due to a bad back and Jason Jones on suspension, this does put some stress on Mario Williams playing and does weakens the D-Line depth.
It’s a mixed bag as some healed player prepare and some newly injured are not.
Run stop will play a crucial role this week, so this ‘DT thinning’ should be something to keep an eye on during the game.
The spot opened by Orr’s departure is being filled by practice squad player receiver Rashawn Scott.
This activation does hint that DeVante Parker, who missed practice on Wednesday, might be limited or unavailable this week.
But a good note is that Leonte Carroo will get more opportunities this week if Parker can’t go. Carroo’s touchdown last week flashed some of his purported talent, and it appears he will be a factor. Although, it’s highly doubtful he can fill the shoes of a healthy Parker.
In conclusion, if Tunsil and / or Albert can play, it will out weigh by far a Carroo / Parker swap. This team suffered a defeat in 2008 by the Ravens because they had zero ground game. If Miami wants to win, they need to be at least competent in their rushing effort. And a replacement of Young by either of the two will go along way to making that happen. Go Fins!!!