Day 5: Some Thuds Are Better Than Nothing
Day 5 drew a bit closer to the real deal, but was still partial pads and thuds.
Day 5 the Miami Dolphins practiced indoors in shorts and pads, not due to rain or heat: the reason was lightning.
It was another frustrating day for the offense. But again, this is to be expected when defensive line talent is high and the offensive implementation is at this early stage. But…
…The first preseason game is a marker.
Offense should start to form in the week of practice that follows. Time is ticking, but still no reason to worry…
…Or to be overly optimistic-
Except for Arian Foster who performed like a true pro on Tuesday.
If he stays healthy, the best pay per head fans are betting he’ll be the best back that Miami has had for some time. That’s of course if he can stay healthy!
Speaking of healthy and Running Backs, Ajayi rode the bike and Pead was out with an injury. Parker picked up a hammy issue, and the WR unit suffered. A few observers noticed his presence makes a difference despite his meh route running.
Andre Branch is running with the starters – alot. It seems they might be getting him ready to start.
Jakeem Grant dropped a punt… his hands aren’t nearly as good as his speed at this point.
Leonte Carroo took his first team snaps in place of injured DeVante Parker with so-so results. Same could be said of Ryan Tannehill‘s performance which had a couple of botched snaps and the first pick of training camp.
Day 5 ended the Dolphins QB’s streak of no interceptions.
Isa Abdul Quddus got the first interception of training camp, picking off Tannehill in the red zone on the last play of the day.
Speaking of the defense:
DBs practiced hitting; Ifo Ekpre-Olomu did not practice; Branden Albert has no issues blocking Mario Williams who can’t disengage him – although, Jason Jones beat Albert for the sack; CB Lucas struggled in 1 on 1 drills; DT Jordan Phillips is again very quiet…But, Chris Jones is solid again – although small.
Odds and Ends:
Stills is dropping passes today – too many. It’s his worst day so far.
Dolphins rookie defensive tackle Farrington Huguenin got demolished by Damien Williams in pass protect and then was carted off the field.
Billy Turner is spending his second day working at right tackle on the second team.