Dolphins Outlook

Mike Cannady, ESPN Radio

The last time the Miami Dolphins made the playoffs was in 2008. After that year, instead of the team progressing, things around the organization started to go downhill.What exactly is the problem? Some fans argue its the general manager Jeff Ireland, and others think its just the football players lack of performance on the gridiron.

Well, I’ll tell you this from my standpoint, the offense hasn’t been doing so well for some seasons, and I to believe its just the players.

This past 2011 season, the Dolphins and former head coach Tony Sparano (Jets O-C) have failed to meet again to meet their expectations (make playoffs) finishing third in the AFC East with a 6-10 record. The addition of quarterback Matt Moore was a great pickup for the team because of a struggling Chad Henne who wouldn’t move the offense downfield. Former New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush has been making the most of his time in his 1st year at South Beach rushing for 1,086 yards and 6 touchdowns on the season. Oh, you can’t forget about Brandon Marshall! He reminds me of All-Star Detroit Lions receiver Calvin “Megatron” Johnson because of the way he uses his size and speed to get over and past defensive backs. He hauled in 81 receptions for 1,214 yards, and 6 touchdowns.

First off, I’d like to give props to the defense and defensive coordinator Mike Nolan. Although this turns out to be another daunting season for the coaching staff, his defense excelled and played to his/her potential near the end of the regular season which included a win against the New York Jets that kept them from going to the playoffs. Nolan’s pass defense was very poor but his run defense was 3rd in the league allowing opponents only 95.6 rushing yards a game along with allowing 20 points a game that ranked 6th in the league.

However, if Miami wants to be successful, it has to have some offensive production and must start off strong in the beginning of the season. The team was average throughout the season and has to improve in the passing game. Ranked 23rd in passing yards (193.2), Miami will need another receiver that could compliment Pro-Bowl receiver Brandon Marshall. The other receivers Brian Hartline and Davone Bess combined a total of 4 touchdowns together which is extremely low. Tight End Anthony Fasano isn’t flashy but quietly puts up solid numbers. He’s been doing his part, but can’t always be relied on to catch the football if Brandon Marshall were to struggle.

Don’t get me wrong, the Miami Dolphins aren’t as bad as what people say they are; but, I will say this, I’ve noticed that the Dolphins don’t start the season off on a high note, but somehow manages to pick up and finish strong near the end. What’s up with that? Yes. the problem could have possibly been Tony Sparano, but the Dolphins will need to bring in some more offensive talent in the NFL Draft, and a few defensive players. Some holes I would suggest to fill in is the quarterback position definitely, maybe another running back, and another safety. There will be a lot of tremendous athletes entering this year’s draft. One player that’s been the story line is Stanford quarterback/Heisman Trophy finalist Andrew Luck. There’s a possibility the Dolphins could land him, but if that doesn’t play out, try going after Heisman Trophy winner Robert Griffin III from Baylor. Miami will have plenty of options to choose from though since they’ll get to choose early. As for running backs, Former Alabama Crimson Tide halfback Trent Richardson is another stud to look after. I understand Reggie Bush has been producing, but the other backs haven’t produced much. Incase Bush goes down, it’s good to have someone who can get the job done without worries. Defensive players include LSU’s Maurice Claiborne, South Carolina’s Melvin Ingram, Southern California linebacker Nick Perry, and linebacker Luke Kuechly from Boston College.

To sum it all up, in my opinion, Miami just needs more offensive firepower and play consistent football. The defense is fine, but the offensive needs to show up. There’s no doubt they wouldn’t be in the playoffs next year if it finds more talent on the offensive side.

Mike Cannady is a second year Journalism major at Santa Fe College. He covers football/ high school recruiting for ESPN Radio (Gainesville/Ocala), and also serves as a correspondent for ‘’The Mark McLeod Show’’. You can follow him on Twitter @ mike_espn