Miami Dolphins’ Offense Evolves to Focus on Ball Control
Adjusting to Defenses
Last season, the Miami Dolphins were known for their big-play offense. However, as defenses have keying on limiting those big plays by keeping two safeties deep, the Dolphins have traded dynamic offense for long methodical drives. This was on display in their win over the Las Vegas Raiders on Sunday.
Coach Mike McDaniel’s Strategy
"That’s something that we’ve been talking about since the start of the offseason," coach Mike McDaniel said. "In conjunction with forecasting how do we win elimination games, how do you win down the stretch? How do you win down the stretch of the season? You have to adjust to what is being presented to you."
The New-Look Offense
The Dolphins’ drives on Sunday were characterized by long, methodical plays. Three of their drives were 14 or more plays and lasted longer than seven minutes. They had another drive that went 10 plays over 5:44. Three of four resulted in touchdowns. The unit led by quarterback Tua Tagovailoa has evolved from a quick-strike approach to a ball control offense.
Tagovailoa’s Growth
Tagovailoa said this new-look offense is a product of his growth as a quarterback. He leads the NFL with a 73.4% completion rate and was 28 for 36 for 288 yards on Sunday, spreading the ball to nine different receivers.
Exploiting Defenses
The Dolphins haven’t gotten the ball to Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle as much, as teams continue to double-team them. As a result, the two are having their least productive seasons as pros. However, the extra attention to the NFL’s most productive duo in 2023 has often opened up opportunities for other open receivers.
Converting Third Downs
The Dolphins were 8 of 12 on third down and converted both of their fourth down attempts. During their two-game winning streak, Miami has converted 56% of its third downs.
What’s Working
- The Dolphins’ offense has evolved to focus on ball control
- Quarterback Tua Tagovailoa’s growth has been a key factor in the team’s success
- The offense has been efficient, converting 8 of 12 third downs and both fourth downs
What Needs Help
- The Dolphins’ defense needs to improve its third-down defense, which allowed the Raiders to convert 57% of their third downs
- Defensive players were critical of their performance after the game
Stock Up
- TE Jonnu Smith had a career-high 101 receiving yards on six receptions and two touchdowns
- The Dolphins’ tight end has emerged as a key piece to the offense over the past two games
Stock Down
- CB Cam Smith played only eight snaps despite the Dolphins missing starting cornerback Kendall Fuller due to a concussion
- Smith has allowed 12 of 15 catches for 134 yards in coverage this season
Injuries
- RB Raheem Mostert injured his hip in the first quarter and did not play much the rest of the game
Key Numbers
- 30 – The Dolphins scored at least 30 points for the first time this season and the most since scoring 30 on Dec. 17, 2023, against the Jets
- 500 – The Dolphins reached 500 franchise wins after Sunday’s game
Next Steps
The Dolphins host New England on Sunday. They beat the Patriots without Tagovailoa in Week 5.
Conclusion
The Miami Dolphins’ offense has evolved to focus on ball control, and it appears to be paying off. With quarterback Tua Tagovailoa leading the way, the team is finding ways to win, even if it’s not through big plays. The Dolphins will look to continue their winning streak against the Patriots on Sunday.
FAQs
Q: What has changed about the Dolphins’ offense this season?
A: The team has traded dynamic offense for long methodical drives.
Q: Why have the Dolphins’ big-play offense struggled this season?
A: Defenses have keyed on limiting those big plays by keeping two safeties deep.
Q: What has been the key to the Dolphins’ success on offense?
A: The team’s ability to convert third downs and its growth as a ball control offense.
Q: Who has emerged as a key piece to the Dolphins’ offense?
A: TE Jonnu Smith has emerged as a key piece to the offense over the past two games.
