Phins have plenty of striking power, now they must prove to have lasting power
The good news for Phins fans is that the Miami Dolphins have been knocking on the door for the last 4 years, especially the last two where they earned Wildcard playoff appearances. On the downside, Miami has also collapsed each of these seasons with 2024 being one of the most crushing in the Dolphins’ history. But, the team has been reloaded with talent, and expectations are high given their 11th-highest odds to win the Super Bowl at +2400. I compiled some statistics below that surprised me but created some clarity on the collapse and offered hope that this season might end differently with just a little improvement.
Good teams don’t beat themselves… especially in opponents’ territory!
Below are three stats with the Phins in the opponents’ territory heading for some points, whether a field goal or touchdown. Miami had the 3rd worst discipline in the league with 17 offensive holding calls, but shockingly 12 of them were in the opposition’s territory. This fueled the next two stats to a large degree where the Dolphins were 28th worst with 63 plays needing 12 yards or more to go for a first down between the opponents’ 40-yard line and their endzone. The biggest eye sore was their 30th worst 21 plays of 12 yards or more to go for a first down between the opponents’ 40-yard line and their endzone! Given how tight so many big games were, it doesn’t take the best football software to know this was a tough hole to escape.
The great news is much of this is within the Dolphins’ control!
Miami had the league’s 6th-best scoring differential at +4.8 points on the season, but over their last 3 games that number plummeted to -21! Negative plays on wide runs and screens with offensive holding calls made the road to beating good teams harder. But, the vast number of injuries on the offensive line was sure to add to the lack of discipline. So, the hope is a healthier offensive line group can help on that front and allow McDaniel to not have to call so many screens to offset pressure.
The depth that was added to the offensive blockers could go a long way towards keeping the Dolphins offense on schedule and putting up more points! But, the question is will the starting talent be enough? The additions of OBJ, Jonnu Smith, and rookie Jaylen Wright will help this offensive line for sure! Still, can the Dolphins blockers stand tall late in the season and against good teams in those critical moments where it’s their turn to pull their weight? We’ll see soon enough. I really, really, really hope so! Go Phins!!!