Dolphins Mid-Season Review: Shifting expectations
by Matty I on Nov 10, 2009 12:15 AM EST
in News
143 comments
We've officially hit the halfway point of the 2009 Miami Dolphins season and are now a season and a half into the Bill Parcells-Jeff Ireland-Tony Sparano era in Miami. Considering where we were when the "trifecta" took over, nobody should be disappointed about where this team is in terms of the long haul. With that said, of course, it's difficult to not be disappointed with Miami's current 3-5 record.
In this league, you are what your record says you are. That's generally true. But in the grand scheme of things, the Dolphins are much more than just an average run-of-the-mill 3-5 football team.
A shift in expectations
Entering the season, I was among the many who declared we wouldn't just be satisfied with an 8-8 or 9-7 season because of the "tougher schedule" the Dolphins faced in '09 as compared to '08. I wanted to be a playoff team once again and I honestly thought this team could pull it off. But lo and behold, wouldn't you know that it was indeed these "tough games" that have dug the Dolphins into a deep hole in the AFC playoff picture.
Now I'm not saying that I'm giving up on the playoffs in 2009. In fact, if the Dolphins take care of their next three games (against Tampa Bay, Carolina, and Buffalo) and they get a little help from New England's tougher opponents (@ Indianapolis and @ New Orleans), the Patriots could potentially be heading down to Miami on December 6 with a 7-4 record to face the 6-5 Dolphins. While those are a ton of "ifs" that must break in favor of Miami, it's not totally out of question.
With that said, my own personal expectations have shifted. I'm no longer as concerned with making the playoffs in 2009. If the Dolphins somehow pull it off and reach the postseason, that's terrific. But if they don't, that's fine too. Why? Because injuries and a lack of talent at critical positions have made me more concerned with developing this team for the long haul - not just for the immediate future.
The injuries to Chad Pennington and Will Allen, in particular, have changed what this season means to the Dolphins. I'd say that most fans would agree. But it's been these losses to teams like the Colts, Saints, and Patriots that have made me realize that this Dolphins team just isn't ready to really compete with their talent level. However, the strides that this franchise has made since the 2007 disaster are remarkable.
Integration of young players
Want to know why I'm not as distraught as some other Dolphin fans seem to be about this 3-5 season? It's because of how the Dolphins are setting themselves up for the future. The coaches are doing something that you don't see too often - they are trusting a number of rookies and young players. And the result is that we're seeing tangible reasons of why we should be excited for the future of this franchise.
First and foremost, there's Chad Henne. As you all know, I was squarely on the "start Chad Pennington" bandwagon all offseason long. While I hate to see what happened to CP - he deserves better but his body continually lets him down - letting Henne play and gain experience has been huge, and will continue to be huge, for this franchise. Ffor the first time in a long time, fans, coaches, and the front office can all be excited about the quarterback position. Folks, I really think we've found "our guy."
Has he been great? No. Has he been terrible? No. Has he shown flashes of greatness? Yes. Think back to just his second career start when Henne put together one of the best fourth quarters a young quarterback has put together in recent memory.
Does he have a lot to work on? Of course. His accuracy is shaky at times. He holds the ball too long sometimes. At times, he runs backwards when pressure is closing in - especially when he's pressured on those designed roll-outs.
At the same time, I've seen just as many positives. I've seen that strong rocket arm. I've seen some perfectly thrown balls. I've seen a toughness to hang in the pocket and deliver a pass with pressure bearing down on him. I've seen him get back up after taking a nasty shot in the pocker - like Sunday's "roughing the passer" hit by Patrick Chung. Most of all, I've seen the poise and mental toughness necessary to lead a team in hostile situations. Sure, against both the Saints and Patriots, Henne was unable to lead a game-winning or game-tying drive late in the fourth quarter. But both times, it wasn't because Henne failed. His teammates failed him.
There's a lot to like about Henne, that's for sure. But there are also other young players with a lot to like.
You got two rookie corners who are being trusted to start. And neither of them have played poorly. Both Sean Smith and Vontae Davis have had their ups and downs. But there have been more positives than negatives and they will only continue to get better. Over the long haul, the Dolphins are set with their starting cornerbacks.
The offensive line is also set for the foreseeable future. Only one starter, Jake Grove, is over 28 years old. And two, Jake Long and Donald Thomas, are only 24 and in just their second season. The way an offensive line gets better is by playing together for a long time, and that's what we're going to see in Miami over the next few seasons.
The defensive line also suddenly has a nice young core to build around. Kendall Langford, Phillip Merling, and Randy Starks all look like long-term contributors at defensive end for the Dolphins. And none of them are older than 25 years old (Starks). Tony McDaniel also looks like he could become a solid backup and he's only 24 himself.
The Dolphins also have other young contributors who could become major long-term factors. Chris Clemons and Tyrone Culver are two young safeties who will probably see more and more opportunities as the season goes on. Davone Bess and Brian Hartline are two young receivers who, ideally, would be very good complimentary receivers. Greg Camarillo is also relatively young and is looking more and more recovered from his knee surgery every week. I will continue to stand by my belief that Camarillo, once he's healthy, can be a starting #2 receiver in this league.
And let's not forget our favorite former CFL stand-out, pass rusher Cameron Wake. He's only 27 and has the potential to be a pass-rushing force for years to come. But he is still raw, which is probably why he hasn't seen the amount of snaps many would like him to see.
Clearly defined needs
One of the positives - if you can call it that - to come from Miami's 3-5 start has been how well defined this football team's needs have become. We all know what this team needs - some needs more pressing than others, of course.
Perhaps the most pressing need is at the wide receiver position. This offense will never be what it needs to be to get to that next level until they get a true "go-to" number one receiver. Opposing defenses have no reason to respect Miami's passing attack, allowing them to go all-out to stop the only real threat this offense has - their ground attack. But Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams will become less and less effective on the ground as teams continue to put eight, and sometimes even nine, in the box to shut them down. In all honesty, can you blame them? I'd do the same thing. None of these receivers would even scare me a little bit.
This need has been magnified even more the past few weeks, too. In their last two losses, the Dolphins have been within a touchdown and had possession of the ball with over three minutes left. But each time, the Dolphins failed to move the ball, thanks in large part to receivers who just can't make the plays necessary to win football games.
But there are other needs as well. The Dolphins need upgrades at both inside and outside linebacker. A play-making free safety is another obvious issue. And we saw on Sunday that Paul Soliai might not be anything better than a back-up nose tackle. He underwhelmed as a starter, replacing the injured and aging Jason Ferguson. So nose tackle is also a need.
See this team for what it is
As a fan, we all want to see our team win championships. Year in and year out, we all look through "aqua and orange colored glasses" and view our team as either championship caliber or playoff caliber. But let's be real - this team just isn't as talented as the league's elite teams. That's why it's so impressive that the Dolphins were able to play teams like the Colts, Saints, and Patriots and nearly knock them off. Is it frustrating to lose those games? Of course. But we need to see what these losses show.
The Dolphins played teams with superior talent and gave them all they can handle - with a number of rookies and second-year players being key contributors. That says a lot about where this team is.
It says a lot about this coaching staff. Say what you want about some of their questionable play-calling and their gameday decisions. But this staff knows how to prepare to play more talented football teams.
It also says a lot about the mental toughness of these players. Some young players will go into a shell and back down to the elite NFL teams. But not this group of guys. They battle. And they're only going to get better.
The future is bright, people. We just need to give this front office time to address those remaining needs and the young players on this team more time to mature. But we're clearly on the right path.
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First
Matty i agree, when we draft in the spring it should all be about a #1 WR, a DT, and a bunch of LBs. some o-line depth for security and we will be set for the future. rebuilding is nearly complete and the upcoming years are very bright
by jazztrumpeter89 on Nov 10, 2009 12:20 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
IMO we need the obvious #1 WR 2nd LB and 3rd OL. Can't move the ball lif your on your Arse!
You could pick up a good NT in the late rds.
by D0lphins4Life on Nov 10, 2009 2:10 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
That was part of the plan from the get go.
We will be contending for years this isn’t a short term gain,it’s a long term gain.If you noticed tonight on MNF the GM for the Steelers has been there for 10 years and his plan was built through the draft not FA picks lots of money and go so far.We will be in the SB contention for years so phin fans get ready to see alot of exciting football for years to come.I will take you there the REAL TONY SPARANO!
by Tony_Sparno on Nov 10, 2009 12:24 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Notice to all fin fans if i see no production from the following players they will be cut or traded no specific order.
TBD; Ginn,Wilson,Porter,W Allen,Crowder,and Bess.Parcells and Ireland draft 50% Offense 40% Defense and 10 % ST.I love Championships I will do whatever it takes to get there thats it.
by Tony_Sparno on Nov 10, 2009 1:02 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I agree with them all.. expect bess
He will be our # 3 for a while until we get our # 1 and # 2. Ginn is as good as gone
by Wallace758 on Nov 10, 2009 1:04 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ginn isn't going anywhere.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Nov 10, 2009 2:34 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He BETTER go somewhere or I am seriously thinking of jumping the Dolphin band wagon.
I dont say that lightly either. The only reason I se for keeping ginn is if they ONLY use him to return kicks. If I see that butterhanded loser on the field next season as a receiver I am going to start routing for the Patriots.
Henne is now our leader. Lets see what the guy can do !
As usual the R&R Xpres is non stop to its next destination !
Driver of the Camarillo, Hartline & Bess fan club bus.. hop on and enjoy the ride!
We need this pass D to STEP THE F UP and do what they get paid to do!
by MainePhinFan on Nov 10, 2009 12:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Eh,
that brings your fandom into serious question if you would quit over Ginn. Did you quit on the team in 2007? Are you just a fair weather fan?
Ginn stretches the field whether you want to admit it or not. Why do you think the run game was so dead this week? They stacked the box because there was no receiver that was going to require safety help. Ginn requires it. And before you even come at me with some “he’s not a threat if he can’t hold on to the ball” BS, remember there were TWO defenders on him in New Orleans when that bogus pick was ruled a TD.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Nov 10, 2009 12:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ive been a Phin fan since 1984. Im tired of the last 10 years of making HORRIBLE offensive choices.
Sure there has been a few good ones. Williams.. Brown.. Henne.. but just look at the things that have happened BAD. We dump Wess Welker to the Pats and then he ends up one of the top 10 receivers in the NFL. We trade away Chambers who I still believe was a good receiver. If we had kept Chambers and Welker I believe we would have had a top 10 or so tandom receivers the last few years. The idiots pick up Ginn who is a total bust. I know this is not the current stafs fault.. but it IS their fault for keeping him this long. HE IS A BUM get rid of him already. This staf dumps MILLIONS into picking up another bum named Wilford.
Yes maybe you can call me an ass for making the statement.. but ya can only get so burned on a team who constantly makes poor choices be4 you start to doubt if they will even make enough good ones.
I would never become a fan of the Pats.. I am from Maine and I HATE them x’s 100. I was just venting.
As for Ginn streatching the field.. that is total BULLSHIT if he streatches the field so much then why have the last 3 teams put 8 and 9 in the box even when he is on the field? Teams know he CANNOT make the catch so why double him? He is a BUM who couldnt catch a cold if he was injected with it. I stand by my thoughts that he does not stretch the field. Even though he has had 3 or 4 big plays everyone who faces us knows that he has also dropped 60% of the balls thrown his way. If I am a team defending him I know that the odds of him making more then 1 big play a game is 100 to 1 if not 1000 to 1. And before you say.. he made 2 huge plays against the Jets.. yes he did. But he will not run another return to the house again this season. I would place a $100 on that. He got lucky.
How can people still stand up for this loser? He makes more mistakes and misses catches that are not all that hard all the time. Sure he has had a few harder ones and I do not condem him for those. But how many has he missed that he had both hands on? Or how many hit him in the numbers and he dropped them? Or how about after the catch him dropping to the ground like a baby? He is USELESS and I am so tired of people defending him. I would rather have 30 year old Chambers for the next 3 or 4 years then Ginn. Id rather not have ginn on the field then have him line up as a receiver. Hell Id rather have Wilford on the field instead of Ginn and thats saying allot because Wilford kinda sucks. Ginn is just a total bust and keeping him guarantees nothing more then more missed catches and bobbled passes and more fan let down. He is a loser and if this FO cannot see that it makes me wonder if they have what it takes to really get the Phins into serious playoff mode under their watch.
Henne is now our leader. Lets see what the guy can do !
As usual the R&R Xpres is non stop to its next destination !
Driver of the Camarillo, Hartline & Bess fan club bus.. hop on and enjoy the ride!
We need this pass D to STEP THE F UP and do what they get paid to do!
by MainePhinFan on Nov 10, 2009 12:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
"Kill me or release me, parasite. But do not waste my time with talk."
Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.
Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.
by Farorefox on Nov 10, 2009 1:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Maine....dude you really have a problem with Ginn don't you?
Feel good that you have only been a fan since 1984, that means you got on in the prime of Marino’s career. There are a lot (well, I don’t know the age of most of the posters so maybe not a lot) of us who have been a fan since the 70’s, myself included. There have been a lot of ups and even more downs over the course of this franchise. You can’t let one player decide your fate as a fan. But you do what you gots to do brother and good luck to you on whatever bandwagon you might decide to get onboard with.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 2:04 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Count me in with you Vanman. Been a Phins fan since early 70's.
I was in the Army in Germany (no TV) for 72 & 73 seasons.
Just think how stupid the average Jest fan is, and then realize that half of them are even stupider! ( a parody of a George Carlin line)
Attorney General of the Matty I Fan Club
Driver of the draft Brandon Spikes bandwagon
by PhinsTifosi on Nov 10, 2009 3:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
.... daaaamn you two are....
… experienced!!
Adjutant General, Matty Fan Club
64 "Phinsider Fued" Points..!!
"Everybody wants a hero, but they're not willing to wait for one"
by Alpha6 on Nov 10, 2009 5:08 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
THat is a good way to put it Alpha
I prefer that over “Long in the tooth”…..but I wasn’t in the military back then. I was still a kid, but remember the 74 season.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 12, 2009 8:17 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Count me in too
I’ve been a fan since I was 7, which happened to be our perfect season, nothing can make me jump ship! Especially to another AFC East team. I don’t know which one I hate the most, but I hate them all!!
by FinsFanDave on Nov 10, 2009 10:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree Sparno
If Porter does not do anything Im sure he can retire or be traded, I see that we will cut W. Allen, as for Crowder Im not so sure because he signed a new contract he will probably be traded for some compensation or what they might do is get another young ML under crowder then release crowder 2011 season. As for Ginn we would probably trade him in a package or something hopefully Cameron does take him back. Speed means nothing without the ball in your hands……..
I do hope we get a true #1 reciever through the draft and also in a trade so that way if the draft pick is not showing anything we have the vet or vice versa. I wish we couldve drafted Percy Harvin damn it.
Draft Taylor Mays in 2010......................
by B1G SaMoAn TuNa on Nov 10, 2009 12:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
as for bess, I think we should trade Bess and Ginn in a package for something worth wild
Draft Taylor Mays in 2010......................
by B1G SaMoAn TuNa on Nov 10, 2009 12:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree.. maybe we can package them and a 2nd for a player like Bowe or something.. we need a serious play maker at receiver
Henne is now our leader. Lets see what the guy can do !
As usual the R&R Xpres is non stop to its next destination !
Driver of the Camarillo, Hartline & Bess fan club bus.. hop on and enjoy the ride!
We need this pass D to STEP THE F UP and do what they get paid to do!
by MainePhinFan on Nov 10, 2009 12:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Why are youall relentless on getting rid of Ginn. Have you seen what's he's done for our ST. I believe he leads the league in KR average. That is huge if your team can cont be sitting at the th 30 + yard line and not backed in a hole. Look at Hester!
Prime example he’s just now showing flashes as a receiver and how long has he been in the league for and either you believe it or you don’t Hester has one the Bears some good games on returned TD or break out returns. Just as did Ginn last week. It’s not his fault they kicked away from him all game. Until we can find someone who can do better. We keep him.
by D0lphins4Life on Nov 10, 2009 2:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Believe me, I am not for getting rid of him
If simply from ST keep him around. He is pissing me off with drops, 7 so far this year but it’s not like we have anything better right now. Lets keep working with the kid and as long as he continues to improve I am good with keeping him. Here is what we really need to do….play to his strengths. We know he isn’t strong at going UP and making a play over the middle, so stop running those routes and setting him up for failure. The pats play welker to his strengths and don’t ask him to do what Moss does, well lets do the same with Ginn. Figure out how to run him and get him seperation. I think that for the most part, he catches the ball if he is open…..so it should be the OCs job to get him open. It’s really kind of stupid to try to pound a square peg into a round hole!
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 2:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
to Mr. Dolphins4life
I like Ginn for special teams but if it will get us a true #1 reciever or a playmaking player Im all for the Ginn/Bess package. I believe we can get another good kick returner not as good as Ginn but good enough to pass the 20 yarder on kick return. It will also give us a good player in return.
Draft Taylor Mays in 2010......................
by B1G SaMoAn TuNa on Nov 10, 2009 5:50 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree but what scares me is...
Parcells, He may not be with us next year, let alone 2 years. I see Ireland staying and that’s a good thing. I think he knows whats he doing. But this team hasnt had this much influx of young talent since maybe 97 when JT Zack, Sam Madison, and Pat Surtain were roaming around on defense. We definitely have alot to look forward. I just cant wait to get our new wide recievers jersey next year!
by Wallace758 on Nov 10, 2009 1:03 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Parcells loves MIAMI he won't leave he is in full control of this team far as Football operations go.
Ross wants his team to be a success.I coach,Parcells and Ireland drafts.Ross does buisness.those two are allready looking into the draft selection for this year.
by Tony_Sparno on Nov 10, 2009 1:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ro$$ Need$
to make $ure Pace$ll$ $tick$ around.
Make him an offer he can’t refu$e
by henryp on Nov 10, 2009 3:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Parcells won't leave Miami anytime soon
Even when he coached other teams, he spent his ENTIRE offseason in the Miami and Tampa areas, watching pre-season baseball, and Tarpon fishing.
The guy loves Florida….. he’s got the best of everything he loves, he’s not leaving.
Leader of the - Settle down Junior!, Henne is the Starter Movement
"We've moved. We're Here....Get Over it"
If Pat White played Tyler Thigpen for the starting QB position for the Miami Dolphins, who would win?
Answer - A 2010 Draft Pick
by Fr8Train on Nov 10, 2009 10:42 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ross is MONEY 3rd ricgest owner in the NFL
1st Seattle Seahawks,2Jerry Jones Dallas Cowboys,3rd Miami Dolphins.
Ross was in the forbes Mag. as the # 117th richest man in the world. 18% top owner in the NFL. Far as money goes not an issue 2nd Parcells is loaded it’s not about the money.1He left NE in ‘98 and DAL ’07 BC the owners wanted to make football draft picks and he didn’t have full control bc of their spolied ways.Like Ross said I do buisness they do Football just get me a CHAMPIONSHIP! Ross net worth 2.5 Billion $ and Bill loves Florida so I think the chances of Bill staying is around 99.9% just my thoughts ppl.
by Tony_Sparno on Nov 10, 2009 5:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ross is worth 4.5 billion(second) behind Allen at 16 billion and Jones is actually in 6th place tied with 2 others.
"I hope you know a lot more than you believe in"-Gram Parsons
"Townes Van Zandt is the best songwriter in the whole world and I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that."-Steve Earle
by texascowpunk on Nov 10, 2009 9:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Damn all those rich bastards
(opens empty wallet)
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 12, 2009 8:18 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No one is believing you. So give it up "Sparno"
Don't question my fandominium.
"the notorious D.I.B."- samdaman
by dolphinsinbuffalo on Nov 10, 2009 7:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
your GF believes me ask her what happend last night.tell her to pick up her panties from my place me and bill ran a train on here.
by Tony_Sparno on Nov 11, 2009 3:48 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I am a girl so I don't have a girlfriend and you further proved you are around ten years old. Get a life
Don't question my fandominium.
"the notorious D.I.B."- samdaman
by dolphinsinbuffalo on Nov 11, 2009 10:33 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Aw
You could still have a girlfriend… ;)
Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.
Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.
by Farorefox on Nov 11, 2009 11:44 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
and you could still have a boyfriend
Don't question my fandominium.
"the notorious D.I.B."- samdaman
by dolphinsinbuffalo on Nov 11, 2009 12:32 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Oh... SLAP!
Adjutant General, Matty Fan Club
64 "Phinsider Fued" Points..!!
"Everybody wants a hero, but they're not willing to wait for one"
by Alpha6 on Nov 11, 2009 1:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Zing
Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.
Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.
by Farorefox on Nov 11, 2009 2:36 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
lol I tried.
Don't question my fandominium.
"the notorious D.I.B."- samdaman
by dolphinsinbuffalo on Nov 11, 2009 4:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Parcells wont leave a job unfinished
His ego wont allow that.
Current Phinsider Feud Points: 23
Sparano: Joey Porter, What is best in life?
Porter: To crush The Jets, see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentation of Mark Sanchez
by Patssuck456 on Nov 10, 2009 10:01 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Matty,
That is a great picture. Nice find!
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Nov 10, 2009 2:40 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Camarillo a number 2?
I don’t know if I’d go that far. He’s definitely a solid #3, in the mold of McCaffrey, Stokely, Welker, Clark, and Cooley (Yes, Clark and Cooley are technically TEs, but they’re really just short, stalky WRs). He’s got the hands, but Camarillo lacks the size to be a true #2 receiver, who is typically your possession receiver.
by luvs2drnk on Nov 10, 2009 3:49 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I would completely go that far.
Camarillo has looked phenomenal this season, but he’s not getting the snaps he deserves. Bess needs to sit.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Nov 10, 2009 12:06 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I would sit Hartline before Bess
Granted he dropped a couple balls but he is a much better possession receiver at this point than Hartline is. Bess generally has incredible hands…..stay the course with him.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 12:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No way,
Hartline can make a big play. Davone Bess is not a big play receiver. Camarillo is the best possession receiver we have, so there’s no point in playing both Bess and Camarillo at the same time.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Nov 10, 2009 12:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
How many 1st downs has Hartline made for us?
Bess is ranked 4th in the NFL….yes, in the NFL in converting 3rd downs at the WR position. 3rd down conversions are the key to our offense because we lack big play capability….why on earth would you want to bench our best 3rd down back? Bess is like Welker, he is too quick to jam off the line which is why he is so good at the 3rd and 5 or less. I agree he needs to stop dropping, but Hartline has dropped a few passes this year as well. And I really haven’t seen enough “big plays” to warrant keeping him active over Bess.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 2:07 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Actually I just verified my stats
Bess is second in the NFL in 3rd down catches for 1st downs….behind only Steve Smith of the Giants
I can’t find the total number of drops, but I can tell you that it’s less than 4 all year
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 2:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I dissagree.
Bess has caught the butterfinger virus from Ginn this season. Cam is better then Bess so far and I can forgive a few drops from Hartline because he is a rookie. He will be a solid #2 for us in time. Bess and Ginn are just not working.sit Bess and play Cam and Hartline as our starters. Bess in the slot when needed.
Henne is now our leader. Lets see what the guy can do !
As usual the R&R Xpres is non stop to its next destination !
Driver of the Camarillo, Hartline & Bess fan club bus.. hop on and enjoy the ride!
We need this pass D to STEP THE F UP and do what they get paid to do!
by MainePhinFan on Nov 10, 2009 1:01 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
For every drop
that Bess has had, note that he has also had a sensational catch that pretty much no other WR on this team would have made. AND, Bess has caught more 3rd down passes for 1st downs than anyone else on this team! He has dropped a few in the past couple games, but there is no way that you can put him in the same sentence as Ginn when mentioning drops.
Official Leader of the "Bring Back Zach Thomas!!" Foundation
On Matty's "Draft Sean Smith Squad" since he declared
Smacking Beck lovers for opening their mouths, since 09'
by Dragon27az on Nov 10, 2009 1:26 PM EST up reply actions 1 recs
Dodn't you know?
if you drop any pass you must be cut and called Ginn, there’s no dropping passes or in completions in this game!
by Ex Sniper on Nov 10, 2009 1:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Seems that way
and I must have missed that memo. LOL
Official Leader of the "Bring Back Zach Thomas!!" Foundation
On Matty's "Draft Sean Smith Squad" since he declared
Smacking Beck lovers for opening their mouths, since 09'
by Dragon27az on Nov 10, 2009 1:40 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I agree with Bess
He’s been a little shaky but let’s not forget he’s still respectively young himself the common rule of thumb is 3 years to finally get your mojo down in the NFL.
He does makes play’s and if you don’t call all those 3rd down conversations he made as critical than boy you need to re asses your Football knowledge right quick. Every Third down is a Big Third Down.
by Ex Sniper on Nov 10, 2009 1:51 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
well said dragon
2009 is a year of respect ladies and gentlemen. Lets get it.
"i think we have to look at it through his shoes" tuscanitunr talkin about brett farve.
13 1/2 phinsider fued points!!!
by MrMedic on Nov 10, 2009 1:43 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
thanks
and seriously, why is everyone out to get Bess…..I think it is because we already have our torches and pitchforks out while trying to find ol’ Teddy, so they feel the need to use it on someone. Bess is a stud and is the new Welker….do you all really want to ship another Welker out of Miami?!?!?!?
Official Leader of the "Bring Back Zach Thomas!!" Foundation
On Matty's "Draft Sean Smith Squad" since he declared
Smacking Beck lovers for opening their mouths, since 09'
by Dragon27az on Nov 10, 2009 1:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ya He drop's balls!
isn’t that what we do to receivers who can’t jump ten feet in the air and catch everything thrown to them?
Like welker!…..hmmmm….
by Ex Sniper on Nov 10, 2009 1:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He has dropped a couple....but no where to the degree that rates sitting him
Not when he continues to be our top go to guy on 3rd down. He has 14 3rd down conversions, followed by 10 for Greg Camarillo. Oh and just to thrown the numbers out on total receptions….Bess has 36 while the “playmaker” Hartline has a total of 11 receptions for the season. So I stand by my comment that if you are going to sit someone to allow Turner on the field, I would sit Hartline
Bess, 36 receptions and 14 going for 3rd down conversions
Camarillo, 25 receptions and 10 going for 3rd down conversions
Ginn, 19 receptions, with 7 dropped passes (2nd in the NFL)
Hartline, 11 receptions with 3 dropped passes
After reading those numbers, does anyone want to still bench Bess??
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 2:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
25 catches, 260 yards, and 1 TD in 8 games is phenomenal?
In what league is that phenomenal? Pop warner? Look, I think the guy has skills. But I think they’re better suited as a slot receiver, not the #2 possession receiver.
by luvs2drnk on Nov 10, 2009 11:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yeah because size is exactly what makes a WR
Right Steve Smith (I know he has blazing speed)
Right Art Monk (he was gigantic right??)
Marvin Harrison (another guy in the mold of TO right)
Steve Largent (huge with blazing speed right!!)
Wes Welker (A pure bohemoth!!)
Forgive me but Camarillo runs perfect routes and can find ways to get open. I think when he recovers fully he will make a very good number 2. Size only gets you so far, right Roy Williams, Limas Sweed, Mike Williams and countless other prototypical WRs
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 12:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well said sir!
"I hope you know a lot more than you believe in"-Gram Parsons
"Townes Van Zandt is the best songwriter in the whole world and I'll stand on Bob Dylan's coffee table in my cowboy boots and say that."-Steve Earle
by texascowpunk on Nov 10, 2009 9:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
If you're going to make an argument against my position....
At least use better examples. Art Monk was 6’3", 210 lbs!!! During the 80’s that was huge for a receiver!! Steve Smith and Marvin Harrison is/were the #1 receiver due to their exceptional speed, they were not not the possession receiver (Reggie Wayne and Muhsin Muhammed played those roles). Steve Largent played during the 80’s when the biggest receivers were barely six feet and 190lbs. Wes Welker is still just a slot receiver. The reason he’s having such great seasons is because the Pats spread the field, and because he’s got a guy by the name of Randy Moss on the other side of the field. If Camarillo runs perfect routes and find ways to get open. Why does he only have 25 catches in 8 games? You’re right, size does only get you so far, right Larry Fitzgerald, Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Brandon Marshall, Jerry Rice, Cris Carter, Andre Reed, Art Monk, Keyshawn Johnson, James Lofton, Eric Moulds, and Michael Irvin (by the way, all these guys are 6-2 or taller and weigh more than 190 lbs. they’re also, with the exception of Fitz and Marshall, in the top 30 in all time receptions).
by luvs2drnk on Nov 10, 2009 11:13 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So! this is what a troll is?
Is kind of funny!
What a lil bithc lol
I will see the Dolphins win a SUPER BOWL before i die(22 years and counting)
by Aleta on Nov 10, 2009 7:49 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
BTW, Matty I
Great post.
I will go a lil farther, the one that are been mediocre are the veterans. They can not rush the passer(OLB), can not tackle(safeties & ILB)
On the giving up the season, not just yet baby ; )
3 wins in a row can bust the confidence on any team and more on this young Dolphins team.
Also u forgot to mention Pat White, he will be a complementary force on his own terms
I will see the Dolphins win a SUPER BOWL before i die(22 years and counting)
by Aleta on Nov 10, 2009 7:55 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Matty - I could'nt agree more!
Yes, the losses are tough to take but when you look at the big picture, you are right that we are “on the right path.”
by SWMich.DolphinFan on Nov 10, 2009 8:26 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Hey SWMich
I am assuming you are from southwest Michigan. I live in Stevensville, where are you from?
by michphishfan on Nov 10, 2009 10:32 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
On the bright side
Look at the schedules, teams competing for a wildcard are all playing each other for the next couple of weeks, at 4-4 the Jets and Jacksonville are both in the picture.
Im telling you a 9-7 team will get in and also while alot of those teams schedules got harder ours got alot easier.
Our next 3 are Bucs, Panthers, Bills, we can easily be 6-5. I believe we can go 7-1 the second half with 2 tuff games the Pats(@home)and Pitt remaining if you include Houston(theyve lost their TE hooray) we have only 3 teams with a winning record to play.
Look at our losses and tell me which one of those teams we were supposed to beat before the season started. The Pats, Saints, Indy, Atl, and Chargers. None but we went 12 rounds with all of them. I blame that on a young team/coaching.
We are going to string together 3 straight and get real confident, I tell you we are going to surprise ourselves.
Only problem I have is how are we going to get Dez Bryant with a late round(play off) draft pick.
by okokokaay on Nov 10, 2009 8:49 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
How can you claim a 9-7 team will get in?
Have you not looked at the AFC North? Here, I’ll give you their records:
Pittsburgh: 6-2
Cincinnati: 6-2
Baltimore: 4-4
Here let me tell you who Baltimore BARELY lost to: New England, Cincinnati 2x, and Minnesota (2 points!!). Now, who have they beat? DENVER, San Diego, KC, and Cleveland. They still have to play Cleveland, Detroit, Chicago, GB, and Oakland which should all be games they win. If they take one game between Indy and their two meetings with The Steelers, that’s 10-6 right there.
Say The Ravens don’t win any of their tough games and end up 9-7, do you honestly think Denver and San Diego aren’t going to both be 10-6 by the end of the season? What about Houston?
There is no way a 9-7 AFC team gets in this year. There will be 10-6 teams that don’t even make it IMO.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Nov 10, 2009 12:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
They all have good records....
But how many times do they play each other….they are all in the same division Joel…they could cut themselves out of the playoffs very easily. Imagine…..Cincy beats Pitt, Baltimore beats Pitt, Pitt beats Balt…..they all can’t win those games. Thats the drawback of being in a highly competitive division.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 12:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I understand how a division works...
Since Baltimore has already played Cinci twice and Pitt and Cinci have already played once, that leaves only 3 remaining games between those teams. If Pittsburgh lost all 3 of those games, they could very easily still finish 11-5 since we are the toughest team they face in the 2nd half of the season, besides their division.
If Cinci loses to Pitt, they could still finish 12-6 and that’s expecting a loss to Minnesota whom they could actually beat.
Basically, you need to take a look at the schedules before you try and argue my points.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Nov 10, 2009 12:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I am not arguing...I am simply saying all three of those teams aren't going to be in the playoffs
That’s too tough of a schedule, kind of like what the AFC east used to be like. I don’t know that 9-7 gets into the playoffs…but I would definitely say you are in if you go 10-6.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 2:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The north only has three teams..!!
YaaaaH!
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64 "Phinsider Fued" Points..!!
"Everybody wants a hero, but they're not willing to wait for one"
by Alpha6 on Nov 10, 2009 5:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
well said Matty
Current Phinsider Feud Points: 23
Sparano: Joey Porter, What is best in life?
Porter: To crush The Jets, see them driven before you, and to hear the lamentation of Mark Sanchez
by Patssuck456 on Nov 10, 2009 10:03 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Superb Post, Matty!
I think as fan we sometimes live up to the definition of “fanatic.” We see the potential in players, but we don’t realize it takes time for them to develop. Imagine in 3 years what Henne, Smith, Davis and Wake could be doing if they continue to develop… Yeah, we could be up there with the elite teams! But, changing from a 1-15 team to an elite team will take at least 4-5 years in my opinion. We are just lucky to have this coaching staff that develops players not only physically, but mentally! That is why we are able to compete with elite teams even though we are far outmatched talent-wise.
We definately need to focus on WR this offseason. I also think we need better LBs (age is certainly becomming a factor here) and a DT or 2.
Overall, we are lightyears ahead of where we were 2 years ago, but we aren’t where anyone wants us to be. I say we let our coaches and front office continue to get talented players in here because they have done a pretty good job at doing so thus far!
by KnoxVegas on Nov 10, 2009 10:37 AM EST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Agreed. One of my favorite posts by you!
have made me more concerned with developing this team for the long haul – not just for the immediate future.
Right! We have beaten the teams we are suppose to beat, and lose to the ones we weren’t.
Our home loses? Against the only 2 undefeated teams left. Teams lead by QBs by the name of Manning and Brees.
Our loses? On the road against 3 playoff teams ATL, SD, and NE. Led by QBs with the name of Ryan, Rivers, Brady.
What do all of these teams have in common? A superb passing attack led by 4 Pro Bowl QBs (2 HOF bound) and the AP ORY (Ryan)
Not only the QBs, but all these team have the “go to”, #1 WR too.
Now where did we know we were gonna struggle? in the passing game. Hell we drafted 2 CBs.
The progress we made from the 1-15 ’07 season to giving all the best teams in the NFL can handle now in the ’09 season, I am very very very very very very VERY VERY well pleased.
"Permanence, perseverance and persistence in spite of all obstacles, discouragements, and impossibilities: It is this, that in all things distinguishes the strong soul from the weak." Thomas Carlyle
Sparano yelled to the next receiver, imploring him to, "go get the (expletive) football."
by Neo on Nov 10, 2009 11:47 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yessir.
We aren’t a bad team for losing to a bunch of good/great teams. We just are on the negative side of variance for losing close games. It happens, but the fact that we stuck with all of those playoff bound teams into the 4th quarter goes to show that we are getting pretty close to being a top tier team.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Nov 10, 2009 12:39 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
A couple different coaching calls, a few catches and a play here or there
and we are easily 4-4 or 5-3. I think that the future is very bright indeed in South Florida!
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 2:30 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I made a fanpost similar to this weeks ago...This one is better of course.
The point I also noted is TS is just as rookie as the team. Just one year and a half as Head Coach, he is also learning and gaining experience. I also think this teams has all the tools to become great.
This draft is not loaded with WR talent, so FA (Vincent Jackson someone) could be the answer.
by Mexican_ on Nov 10, 2009 11:36 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Matty Great Post
I agree with all your persepectives on this one….we are the best 3-5 team out there & can hang with the Big Dogs. I didn’t get upset when we lost Sunday (sometimes I go off the handle) ….I was more intrigued by the fact that we gave the Pats all they could handle.
I feel this off-season & draft we will address our needs & look out next year and those coming!
I especially like when Henne fires into tight coverage & he puts it where only our guy can catch it!
by MassFinFan65 on Nov 10, 2009 12:39 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Voice of reason
Great article Matty. The future is what we can look forward to but for now the fact that the Dolphins swept the Jets is pure enjoyment something to be savored all season, now if we can split NE and sweep Buffalo and beat pesky Houston as well as upset Pitt what a great season to build on. The facts are Miami just isn’t there yet but they’re getting better and besides i would rather see Miami go deep into the playoffs than get eliminated first round as usual. Anyhow being a long time Dolphin Fan (‘70’) i am very pleased with their progress.
by J Val on Nov 10, 2009 12:40 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Yes, we expect a lot from our team
we have been to the mountaintop & the air is sweet & we want to go back,
I can still remember our last Super Bowl run,a young # 13 facing a very exp SF defense,it was not our day,but thank you Danny for giving me some great memories,
I think young Chad will get us there again & this time let us have a great defense,DEFENSE wins championships!!!
as for receivers,Duper & Clayton were not first rounders if I recall , we need possession receivers like Camarillo & Welker ,& does anybody remember how well Tony Nathan caught passes coming out of the backfield ? ,
I know Joe Rose is not everybody’s fav,
but he didn’t drop balls, we need a good TE(critical),look how NE scoops up the leftovers & then runs to the Super Bowl,
right now they say they are going to get Larry Johnson,I know,who wants him,just like they said about Moss,how did that work out!!!
by octupus13 on Nov 10, 2009 12:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I honestly expected a little better coaching
Our tackling has been bad for the most part, we are dropping way too many balls (sound like fundamentals anyone) and a few uncovered WRs and TEs have been our biggest problems. We aren’t committing penalties, haven’t really been turning the ball over (except against the Falcons and Saints which killed us) considering we are starting a QB with a total of 4 career starts.
The coaching has been what’s killing us more than the players. Of course that’s just my opinion. I think that the coaches need to put the players in the best situation to succeed and I don’t know that we have done a great job with that. We stopped being aggressive offensively and defensively on a few occassions when we had the lead and it cost us games. The offensive play calling definitely needs to be tweaked. But all in all, I am happy with the direction we are going. It’s just painful sometimes to watch us struggle to get there.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 2:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
DRAFT
In the scenario that players such as Dez bryant, Rolando Mcclian, Brandon Spikes and some top line DT’s are available who do we take? I personally would love to see a guy like Dez Bryant if he fell to us, i think working out with deon sanders and trying to get better to me is the best ncca violation you could break, and i personally think its a dumb rule that he isn’t allow to play because of that. 6’2 220, extremely athletic and would team up with Henne for years along side bess and ginn/camarillo, reminds me of prototype brandon marshall/andre johnson (i’d be happy if he produced half of what they have)
by tonyy on Nov 10, 2009 12:46 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
And yet this...
actually may be a better team in terms of overall talent than last year.
Seriously, cross out Indy, the saints, and falcons from our record, replace them with teams from last year like the raiders and chiefs and NE (w/o Brady) – and there’s no way we’d be 3-5.
The schedule has simply gotten harder, than what our talent level has improved – in just one year. Though as I said, I still think we are more talented overall.
As Matty was saying, we’ve got two young corners who have not embarrassed themselves and actually made some excellent plays. They look like keepers to me. Not to mention some youth on the defensive line, although a young NT (better than Paul S.) would be a nice addition.
Henne has been good, average, and poor but to me he’s shown enough to keep being developed and groomed. His performance in the first Jets game showed he is good enough to put together a great game against what was a very solid defense. This has been light years from Beck where while Henne has had his poor games, you aren’t left wondering about next year’s crop of QB’s in the draft.
The receiving core though, remains a very sore spot. As I’ve said before, we have a bunch of nice 2’s and 3’s on this team (and a few who ought to strictly be kick returners!!). Yet nobody close to a real #1 is on this roster – sorry I’m not buying Turner as a #1.
Get a real #1 receiver out there on this offense, a change of pace back to compliment the power/strength of Ricky/Ronnie, an upgrade at TE and you have all the pieces of one heck of an offense.
by Natalya on Nov 10, 2009 12:56 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Natalya
You know I love ya, but I have to give you a smack for mentioning Beck in here. SMACK. Sorry, just had to be done. Great post though. It actually looks to me like Haynos is getting better and better every game he is out there. Guy is a giant too, aint he like 6’8’ or something?
Official Leader of the "Bring Back Zach Thomas!!" Foundation
On Matty's "Draft Sean Smith Squad" since he declared
Smacking Beck lovers for opening their mouths, since 09'
by Dragon27az on Nov 10, 2009 1:38 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Heh, what's this, love for me? What are you on? ;-)
Seriously though dude, I bring it up because it is such a big deal.
If the season ended right now, today, let me ask you this:
How many of you would be wondering, doubting, trying to figure who is our starter at QB for next year AND would you feel good about that player?
Anyone going to say someone other than Henne?
Because I’m not…
So back in ‘07, among the oodles of questions we had, was ’ who exactly is going to qb this team in 08’ and what the heck do we have at the position anyway?
Think of all the teams, right now, who have no idea what they will do at QB next season and have no answer at that spot.
Off the top of my head: Buffalo, SF, Oakland, Cleveland, Washington, Carolina, St. Louis, and Tennessee.
Now check the standings – all of the above are: a) under .500, b) none will make the playoffs.
I think having Henne show himself as a solid prospect so far is huge.
Oh yeah, and Haynos is a big guy. Ronnie’s favorite target even :-)
by Natalya on Nov 10, 2009 4:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Change of pace back??? I believe we have sheets on the practice squad still. He would be a nice complimentary back.
by D0lphins4Life on Nov 10, 2009 2:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
... a back that says alot of "thank you's"...
I like that… very kind… very nice… and always has a smile…
Adjutant General, Matty Fan Club
64 "Phinsider Fued" Points..!!
"Everybody wants a hero, but they're not willing to wait for one"
by Alpha6 on Nov 10, 2009 5:19 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Very good post Matty
Youth is definetly a good thing and we’re still going out there and competing with the best teams. We are definetly on the right track
Laces out!
-2008 AFC East Champions-
Suck it Pats, Bills and most of all... the god damn jets.
Sean Smith/Vontae Davis= Pat Surtain/Sam Madison
by BSerious72 on Nov 10, 2009 1:06 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Great assesment - let's just stay the course..continue development and make some key signings/drafts in offseason
I basically agree with all of what Matty has to say about where we are at and where we are going. We truely don’t have anything (or much) to be overly disappointed or down about with how things are going and where we are heading..
Let’s make a signing or two at the WR position (at least one top 15 kind of guy) and one at TE. I think this is being overlooked more then it should be this year….and yes, definitely both middle and outside linebacker need some changes/upgrades.
With continued development and but a few key guys signed in the offseason, we’re looking pretty damn good and a sure contender next year and years to come (if we stay on course with the gameplan laid out via Parcells thus far)
by dolphinsfan4life on Nov 10, 2009 1:21 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
great write up matty
well freakin said….all of it.
2009 is a year of respect ladies and gentlemen. Lets get it.
"i think we have to look at it through his shoes" tuscanitunr talkin about brett farve.
13 1/2 phinsider fued points!!!
by MrMedic on Nov 10, 2009 1:40 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
good post
nice one as usual Matty. With you on some of those needs….definitely need in this order:
- WR- No avoiding it this offseason
- FS -If Gibril cant get it together
- ILB -I think we are ok on the outside for now (Roth-if resigned, Wake, Porter -needs to pick it up, and JT -if he comes back) but Akin has got to be demoted…guy is invisible 95% of the game.
- Nickel CB -Did anyone else see what Welker did to Nate Jones, cuz I did!
- NT -I think Solia is a great rotational/backup, just needs someone else to anchor a majority of the snaps.
- TE -this low as I am curious to see if Haynos and Nalbone develop.
Official Leader of the "Bring Back Zach Thomas!!" Foundation
On Matty's "Draft Sean Smith Squad" since he declared
Smacking Beck lovers for opening their mouths, since 09'
by Dragon27az on Nov 10, 2009 1:51 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Have you seen what Welker has done to every defense in the league this year. You can't stop him, you can only contain him and I thought he did ok. He in the top of the league for receptions every year for a reason. Damn that trade!!!!!
by D0lphins4Life on Nov 10, 2009 2:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think a few years now..
has shown a lof dolfans the kind of player Welker is. A little hard to say he’s just getting 100+ catches a year due to Brady or Moss, what with Brady out all last year and Moss getting shut out in some games. Hey, bad trade on a bad regime/staff of ours a few years ago – nothing that can be done now. What we do know is that he’s one of the top underneath, short/medium yard receivers in the game, period.
Oh and I hope parcells & co don’t try the quantity over quality approach at the WR spot. THey drafted two midround guys in hartline & turner which so far, and yes it is early, have equated to a #3 and an inactive. They may get better, but neither is anywhere near #1 receiver material.
Get somebody who has the tools and potential to be a real #1.
by Natalya on Nov 10, 2009 4:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
My thoughts on Ginn
Without him we are 1-7, who on the team gets past Reevis and safety – no one
Who scores if not for 2 KR – no one
by okokokaay on Nov 10, 2009 2:06 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I believe matty has said it before but if we get a true #1 WR on this team then Ginn's numbers will get better. He'll get more one on one's with seperation. Yes, he's scared to get hit but he's th eonly threat for now so there always help when he's actual
by D0lphins4Life on Nov 10, 2009 2:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I believe matty has said it before but if we get a true #1 WR on this team then Ginn's numbers will get better. He'll get more one on one's with seperation. Yes, he's scared to get hit but he's th eonly threat for now so there always help when he's actual
by D0lphins4Life on Nov 10, 2009 2:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Now that we are playing so much young people
I just don’t get why Turner hasn’t get a chance yet. Let’s see what the bug dude can do the worst case is the guy is useless and we move on.
by Mexican_ on Nov 10, 2009 2:36 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Turner showed bad hands in the preseason
Plus he’s slow, no need for a 5th posseion receiver just yet
by okokokaay on Nov 10, 2009 2:45 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I'd like to see what he can do, maybe pull a R. Mendenhall and start beasting or something
but only if we lose 2 or 3 more games and we are definitely done.
Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.
Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.
by Farorefox on Nov 10, 2009 2:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Worst than Ginn or Hartline?
Give him a shot, what if the guy hold on the ball in gameday. I just want to know. I’m not saying he is a saviour but he at least should have a chance to see the ball coming his way.
by Mexican_ on Nov 10, 2009 3:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Jerry Rice was considered a slow WR coming out of college too
Good thing SF didn’t keep him on the bench huh? I think he ran a 4.65 and a 4.7 for his showing.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 3:52 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So who do we want at WR next year
Dez Bryant?
I think we could get Julio Jones at a discount, Alabama QB cant throw worth shit so his stock is going way down.
by okokokaay on Nov 10, 2009 2:56 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I think Dez bryant or mike williams are the two top wr’s…I think Dez is going to be a freak in the NFL.
by tonyy on Nov 10, 2009 3:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
No Mcerloy is doing a good job
Julio Jones just can’t come up with the Big play’s, granted he is double teamed alot but this year he’s been down a bit unable to make the big play’s he was making last year. I believe his knee injury had something to do with it.
In any case he is only a sophomore and i seriously doubt he will enter the draft anytime soon until poeple start looking at him real hard.
by Ex Sniper on Nov 10, 2009 3:16 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Brandon LaFell - LSU...
Adjutant General, Matty Fan Club
64 "Phinsider Fued" Points..!!
"Everybody wants a hero, but they're not willing to wait for one"
by Alpha6 on Nov 10, 2009 5:28 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He'll be a bust if he gets drafted high enough
Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.
Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.
by Farorefox on Nov 10, 2009 6:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Why..?
Adjutant General, Matty Fan Club
64 "Phinsider Fued" Points..!!
"Everybody wants a hero, but they're not willing to wait for one"
by Alpha6 on Nov 10, 2009 10:09 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I can feel it. My instincts are seldom wrong when it comes to things like these.
I’m keen at sniffing out busts
Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.
Bender: Who wants dolphin? Leela: Dolphin? But dolphins are intelligent. Bender: Not this one. He blew all his money on instant lottery tickets.
by Farorefox on Nov 10, 2009 10:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I know what you mean.... I'm with ya..!
Adjutant General, Matty Fan Club
64 "Phinsider Fued" Points..!!
"Everybody wants a hero, but they're not willing to wait for one"
by Alpha6 on Nov 10, 2009 11:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ted Ginn isn't so terrible
Like some have said before me, he stretches the field. And he also makes opposing special teams cringe. Hes dangerous when he has the ball in his hands, the hardest part is getting the ball to stay in his hands. There are 2 losses that are squarely on Ted Ginn’s shoulders, the Colts game and the Saints game. Both games he made crucial blatant. In the Colts game he had the winning TD in his hands. In the Saints game he pretty much handed the ball to Darren Sharper. If you can’t catch it, make sure no one else does. As for our other receivers. Our receiving core as a whole are young. All of them are NFL infants at this point. I think we need to go after one player for our receiving core. And that is Anquan Boldin, regardless of his price tag. Hes a play maker, hes tough, hes physical. Those are the types of players that do well under the Big Tuna. And if we were to give him some respect and show him the money, he would be a 1000 yards a season guy for years to come. There is just a few tweaks that need to happen here or there. But this team is solid and for the most part young. Although most of the veterans on defense aren’t perform, Jason Taylor has been a pleasant surprise. He is still a big play waiting to happen. Its good to see him in a Phins uniform again. As for this season, don’t be thinking its over just yet. Last year we dug ourselves into a hole, then the defense started making plays and the offense was putting points on the board. There are 8 games left, ya just never know in this league.
by Cranpa on Nov 10, 2009 2:59 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Boldin is right
I agree with you about Boldin.
After taking Hartline and Turner a year ago and seeing the results of Ginn, I don’t want them to invest a draft pick on a rookie receiver. I’d rather them flip that pick and maybe a little more for someone who isn’t a mystery. Boldin is that guy. Especially if Ginn sticks around, Boldin is a great complement for him: more of a possession receiver who makes his living after the catch. He’s a proven 100-catch guy who was making plays even before Larry Fitzgerald, so we know he’s not just mooching off diverted coverage. Injuries are a bit of a concern, but I’d rather take my chances on a guy not getting hurt than roll the dice on a young guy being productive, period.
I anticipate the Cardinals finally moving him this off-season. They don’t need him and he still doesn’t want to be there. If he’s available, they need to make a serious push. He’s the only difference maker at receiver that doesn’t come with a ton of baggage. And yeah, I know Boldin’s complained about the contract situation. But he’s right. He deserves to get paid in the upper echelon of players, especially considering the guy’s contract who he’s playing alongside of now. You give him the contract he deserves and I’d be willing to bet he won’t be a problem.
by abailey on Nov 10, 2009 3:39 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the problem with boldin has been that he’s somewhat injury prone so his durability does come into question. I don’t believe boldin is our answer but I don’t know who is, either.
by rhetoric on Nov 10, 2009 4:55 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Agree
That’s my only reservation with him. Dude is a beast and a true modern day tough guy, but I am not sure how many more years he can play like that.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 5:03 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
injuries are sometimes a function
of the training/workout program of the club. Also some luck. I’d roll the dice that our trainers keep him healthy because I think he would make us into a top-5 offense instantly. Put Teddy on one side running a 9 route, Camarillo or Bess doing their best Wes Welker imitation underneathe and Boldin running wherever the fuck Henning wants him to and we are one dangerous O.
by phillyfinfan on Nov 10, 2009 11:29 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i'm so excited about Davis & Smith, we really hit the jackpot in drafting these guys
they play with great poise and shake off those bad plays. and Davis did a great job defending Moss, I doubt even Will Allen could have much better. The compliment Davis received from Moss at the end of the game solidifies my faith in this guy, and it’s nice to have security in our secondary.
As for safety, I would like to see Randy Phillips drafted. I think this guy will spectacular, and he hits hard.
I don’t think Oghoobasse will be on the board when we draft, and i think first round is a little high to draft this guy, but he’d be a great fit for our defense. Not a huge Cody fan, but if he works, I’m all for it.
I haven’t scouted the LBs for this draft yet, i like to wait until after bowl season, just to see how they stand out in the big games. Brandon Spikes is the only one who jumps to mind, but after that eye raking, eh, pretty turned off.
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by chrislucas on Nov 10, 2009 3:09 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Rolando McClain is the best inside linebacker in this draft
He’s faster than Spikes and is better very good playing in coverage. I still like Spikes’ instincts and leadership, though.
Arrelious Benn is my pick for receiver.
Arrelious Benn in 2010!
by kmb8488 on Nov 10, 2009 9:26 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the Phins are close, really close to being something special!
They are really two positions away from being really good. Those are WR and LB. Multiple players are needed at both positions. And I don’t think that you can rely on just the draft to fill them.
The phins need more than one WR. Everyone seems to think that the current roster is filled with 2nd and 3rd WR’s. I don’t see it. I think the phins current roster is filled with 4th and 5th WR’s. Look at last nights game on MNF, no current phins WR would be in the top 3 rotation for either the Steelers or the Broncos (or the Pats, Saints, Colts, Giants, Eagles, Chargers, Texans, Bills). They might not even be in the top 4. If I was the FO, I would sign a big time FA WR to BIG money. If Brandon Marshall is available, go get him. Drafting WR’s is a crap shoot. If you are going to spend big money on a FA, get a proven big time WR. I would also draft one high. Great offenses have great WR’s (not just one) and the phins have none.
On defense they need LB’s, LB’s, and more LB’s. The secondary is set (even though I would love a true ball hawking safety). The DL is set (forget NT, draft them late or sign a veteran relatively cheap). The Phins current set of LB’s are awful. Again, look at last nights game on MNF. Would any of the current LB’s for the phins start for either the Steelers or the Broncos? I don’t think so. Definately not the Steelers. Those Steeler LB’s were all over the field. The phins need to get close to that.
One last point. The phins current talent level is very good IMO and I think that can be seen with the way they played the Colts, Saints, and Pats. Yes, they need improvements in the areas listed above but they are close enough in talent right now to expect to beat those teams. Where they are failing right now against those good teams are in those “critical” plays. There are usually 4 or 5 plays a game that are “critical” or game changers. The talent level in the NFL is so close between teams, games usually come down to these “critical” plays. The team that is successful in these plays are usually the winners of the game. Every game has them and we can all identify them. For example: Henne taking a sack when in FG range, Davis not making a tackle on Moss, 3rd and long conversions, etc. Once the phins start to consistently win these plays, they will be really tough to beat.
by ct1361 on Nov 10, 2009 3:25 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Disagree
I think that with a legit number 1 WR, the safeties favor or even double the “go to guy”. That means that now Ginn gets to line up on a number two DB and Bess, Camarillo, or Hartline draw an easier matchup as well. You can’t accurately gage a number 2 WR without factoring in who he has in front of him. A number 2 without a legit number one won’t produce nearly as well as a number 2 working behind an all-pro. Case in point…..Alvin Harper. Without Michael Irvin as the number one, Harper would have never had the success working deep. He left Dallas and never had much success.
by Vanman_FishFan13 on Nov 10, 2009 4:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ex Sniper
My bad I thought he was a JR, but I like his size at 6’4. Anyway McElroy seems go be all over with his throws.
Eric Decker?
by okokokaay on Nov 10, 2009 3:27 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
JJ is a True Freshmen who started last year
and part of McElroy’s problem is actually trying to force the ball to Julio Jones lol. He sometimes stares the receivers down a bit but he’s smart and accurate. against LSU he had few bad ball’s and the in completion rate was helped by the dropped ball’s of the receivers.
Again Im not sold on Julio as a NFL level receiver yet as I siad McErloy has been forceing them to him in situation’s but he’s also dropped one maybe two but he hasn’t been making those play’s he’s supposed to be making for a power house receiver, give him another year or two though then i think he will be good to go.
by Ex Sniper on Nov 10, 2009 3:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Beautiful Write-Up Matty
U said what the MAJORITY of us are thinking…to the future and the return to excellence!!
FINz4Eva!!
by solefinatik on Nov 10, 2009 4:57 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
WR Needed
I like what the Dolphins staff have done with the team. They have turned a below the average team to an average team with relatively a bunch of unknown players. I really don’t think we have a bad team or organization. We have a bright future. If we can get one more good year out Jason Taylor and Joey Porter, then all we need is one good go to WR, two ILBs that are alot better than Channing Crowder and Akin Ayodele, and one good nose tackle. This team will be a contender and it showed in last Sunday’s performance. We have been very close to beating elite teams. We missed on big plays offensively and defensively on all of those games. From adding all of the missing peices we could be a Superbowl contender by next year.
by nikin78@aol.com on Nov 10, 2009 5:00 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
great, great write-up
I like to think that most Miami fans are capable of stepping back and viewing the big picture like this, and thank you for laying it out so clearly.
One thing I would add, though, that I think everyone knows but often doesn’t get talked about. As a fan, what this is really all about is watching the games, watching the Fins compete and, ideally, win. I think that even as we discuss what’s needed to return to championship-level competitiveness, we shouldn’t lose sight of how great it is to have a team that is game-day competitive. Every Sunday we have a realistic chance to win and that makes watching this team fun again. The trifecta brought back the pleasure of the game-day experience, and I couldn’t be more grateful.
by phillyfinfan on Nov 10, 2009 6:10 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
No.
But both times, it wasn’t because Henne failed. His teammates failed him.
Don't question my fandominium.
"the notorious D.I.B."- samdaman
by dolphinsinbuffalo on Nov 10, 2009 7:43 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Good one
Oh wait, you’re actually serious? Yeesh.
Arrelious Benn in 2010!
by kmb8488 on Nov 10, 2009 9:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I was stating I disagree with the statement
Don't question my fandominium.
"the notorious D.I.B."- samdaman
by dolphinsinbuffalo on Nov 10, 2009 10:22 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
So against New Orleans,
when that pass basically bounced off Teddy’s chest, that wasn’t him failing Henne? or Hartline and Ginn two days ago? What else could Henne have done other than dipping the ball in stick-um before tossing it?
by phillyfinfan on Nov 10, 2009 11:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
It is a team game, Henne isn't let down by anyone. If he was able to make more accurate throws and think faster or slower in the pocket then we woudln't be in situations where he would be "let down" by his teammates.
Don't question my fandominium.
"the notorious D.I.B."- samdaman
by dolphinsinbuffalo on Nov 11, 2009 10:33 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
As far as QBs go Id say most of his throws are pretty dependable
by metalhead86 on Nov 11, 2009 4:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
not nearly as dependable as Pennington.
Don't question my fandominium.
"the notorious D.I.B."- samdaman
by dolphinsinbuffalo on Nov 11, 2009 4:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Perhaps, but there was no way in hell Pannington was going to get us any playoff victories
In the playoffs, conservatism is abandoned and you have to go for broke. Hence the steam-rolling by the Ravens. Pennington MIGHT have gotten us back, but we’d never win anything.
Head Weatherman/ Injury Specialist of the Phinsider.
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by Farorefox on Nov 11, 2009 5:14 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We don't know that. A lot of factors played in in that Ravens loss and he wasn't all of it.
Don't question my fandominium.
"the notorious D.I.B."- samdaman
by dolphinsinbuffalo on Nov 11, 2009 6:49 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I think the fact that it is a team game
doesn’t mean you can’t let your teammates down—but that’s maybe a semantics discussion. And I am certainly not absolving him of ALL blame for the losses, everybody gets a share. But on those drives, I think he was let down by his teammates. That his own failings at earlier points in the game contributed to the team needing a late drive to win (or tie) doesn’t absolve Teddy or Hartline of their responsibility to catch a pass that hits them in the hands.
by phillyfinfan on Nov 11, 2009 6:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Matty
Well said! Great post! I’ve said all year long, 9&7 makes me happy. Being able to sniff a Wildcard would make me happy. Being in the playoffs would make me ecstatic…but not something that I think this team NEEDS this year…
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by Mosul_DolFan on Nov 10, 2009 9:01 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
A tough loss this weekend
but all is not lost. It was a road game and our 2 virgin CBs havent had much time to get acclimated to the speed of professional football. I think if we can go at least 7-1 the rest of the season, we have a good chance of going deeper into the playoffs. The CBs will have some more time to grow and we are already playing the good teams pretty tough.
It’s too bad Tennessee and Carolina are now started to play football.
CP10 and P.Cobbs get well soon
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by Phintastic on Nov 10, 2009 9:24 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
experience, not talent
“I’d say that most fans would agree. But it’s been these losses to teams like the Colts, Saints, and Patriots that have made me realize that this Dolphins team just isn’t ready to really compete with their talent level.”
Huh? We’ve been each of these teams toughest outs, the talent is here but it’s raw and it’s pretty young and not quite as deep. The closest the Colts and Saints came to losing is Miami. We played a NE team (7-0 after byes and 4-0 at home this year) after a bye week and took them deeper than Baltimore. If we make our plays we win, they won because they made their plays and we missed ours.
In a perfect word we win three, NE loses two out of three and we play the rematch in Miami for the division lead. If we lose to Tampa, Carolina, or Buffalo then it’s over.
by phinswnc on Nov 11, 2009 7:54 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
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