Philm Study: Michael Dieter v.s. Pats

Injuries forced Michael Dieter back into the starting role

Miami Dolphins offensive linemen Michael Dieter was drafted in the 3rd Round of the 2019 Draft with the expectation that he’d be an answer for an O-line full of questions. Things didn’t go as planned. The Phins drafted more offensive linemen in the 2020 Draft, Dieter lost his starting role, and not a hide or hair of him has been seen of him in a game. That was until a rash of injuries at the guard position forced him onto the field against the Patriots last week.

Here’s a film study of Dieter’s play against the Patriots:

Michael Dieter is an agile player with good speed

1. Dieter had a terrible diet in college. He was made somewhat famous for his detailing of eating Mcdonald’s everyday! His strength appears better than last year, but it’s still substandard for an NFL guard.
2. Dieter does have good speed and agility to be effective on the second level. This does make him more suited for the center position until his strength improves.
3. Good speed for a man that big and has enough agility to block on the move.
4. Gets off the ball late and just doesn’t have the power or technique to fight off defenders in the run game.

1. You can see him get tossed aside at the end. This doesn’t affect the play, but it’s another example of how he needs to improve his strength this offseason.
2. Dieter is smart and aggressive, but he has to give his all to hold to the defender from getting up.
3. After taking the wrong angle he is tossed on the ground. Anytime a O-line is on the ground and there’s not a defender with him… it’s a big loss.
4. You can see his surprising agility with his footwork of feet in motion. Not many O-linemen can match that technique.

Preview in new tab

1. Again, his lack of strength is on display as he doesn’t dominate the DT with a double.
2. Manages to wall off the defender… just barely.
3. Dieter takes too shallow an angle to help the Karras and doesn’t help Jackson who doesn’t have leverage on the D-linemen. This gets him sandwiched and unable to get to the second level to get the LB, who makes the play.
4. These back to back plays aren’t replays… two different play where Dieter doesn’t level the defender despite have leverage and a double. his lack of power is clear.

Linemen take time to mature… sometimes years

Despite the obvious lack of power, Dieter looks like a player who is getting close to a passable starter. He’s not there yet, but he is better than last season. Strength is one of the easiest areas to improve, so the concern that he won’t improve in this area is low. The physical move from young man to man is different for everyone. The problem is this could happen in his 2nd contract. Dieter will never be a powerhouse, but when he boosts his strength he’ll be effective enough to start. Likely his destiny is center, where his smarts, agility, and speed will are key attributes for success. I don’t ever see Dieter being a quality guard though…

… But, that’s okay because you can bet with the pay per head sportsbook we need a long-term solution at the center position anyway. Will Dieter ever play up to his price 3rd Round pricetag? Time will tell, but I’d lean toward he will… eventually. Go Phins!!!

From both Jimmy and I, we wish all Phins News fans a very Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!