Dolphins rally but fall in OT to Titans; playoff hopes now slim
by Matty I on Dec 21, 2009 12:06 AM EST
in News
96 comments
I could sit here and talk about the heart, toughness, and resiliency that this Miami Dolphins team showed on Sunday in Nashville. As fans, we have every reason to be proud of this football team. They battled all game long, rallying from an 18 point second half deficit. But at this point in the season, "heart" doesn't get you into the playoffs. If it did, this team would be a shoe-in. But as it is, the Dolphins just made too many mistakes and failed to take advantage of too many opportunities, resulting in a heart-breaking 27-24 loss to the Titans.
Missed opportunities and very costly mistakes
I could sit here all day and talk about the numbers with you (and I will highlight a few in a bit). But the bottom line of any football game is you have to score touchdowns when you get into the red zone and you can't turn the ball over. The Dolphins did both. And perhaps it as fitting that it was a Chad Henne interception in overtime (and a completely bogus unnecessary roughness penalty) that wound up souring what could have been a remarkable comeback victory. I say it's fitting because Henne made a few bad throws. However, the Dolphins somehow kept their head above water and climbed back into the game despite those earlier miscues. But you just can't continue to make mistakes and expect to win a football game.
In a way, this game was a microcosm of the 2009 season for the Dolphins. They fell behind early, battled their way back, but eventually came up short.
I won't kill Chad Henne here like some will want to do. He's a kid who is just 11 starts into his career. These kinds of mistakes are to be expected. What is impressive is how he battled back, leading touchdown drives of 80 yards and 90 yards in the fourth quarter to get this thing into overtime. That's pretty damn impressive for as young quarterback if you ask me.
Henne, aided by a ridiculous catch by Brian Hartline, was 11/16 in the fourth quarter for 150 yards and a touchdown - recovering from a 17/27, 195 yard, 2 interception first three quarters. Entering overtime, you got the feeling that Henne would again march down the field, as he did on his two previous drives, and get the Dolphins into scoring position. But he made a horrendous throw. No excuses - and Henne owned up to it after the game:
"There are excuses, but I am not going to make them. I will just say that I missed the pass, and next time I will connect on it."
Honestly, there's no reason not to believe him, either.
Of course, this game goes deeper than just Henne's miscues. The Dolphins were unable to cash in on their first two red zone opportunities. After the Vontae Davis interception, the offense stalled out and settled for a field goal. Then, trailing 10-3, the Dolphins had it first and goal inside Tennessee's 10 yard line. That's when Pat White ran for a yard, Lex Hilliard ran for two yards and Brian Hartline got called for a false start. An incomplete pass on the next play forced Miami to settle for a FG once again.
That's two red zone trips resulting in six points - surprising considering how good this team has become at converting red zone opportunities into touchdowns. Then, of course, we had the Henne interception on the pass intended for Ricky Williams - a pass that was under-thrown, and should not have even been thrown on first down from Tennessee's 14 yard line.
And we can't forget about Ricky's most fumble that stalled another drive just outside Tennessee's 20 yard line.
Four turnovers and eight penalties. It's almost a miracle the Dolphins came as close as they did to winning.
Defense steps up in second half
Like most of you, I was ready to kill this defense for their terrible first half performance. They let the Titans convert on 6 of their first 8 third downs, including three on their first touchdown drive. They let these mediocre receivers get behind them way too often. Vontae Davis got beat. Nathan Jones got beat. Gibril Wilson, of course, got beat as well. All of this resulted in the Titans gaining 228 yards and scoring 17 points in the half.
But the second half was different. The defense actually stepped up. They held the Titans to just 136 yards, 57 of which came on their one touchdown drive. They limited Chris Johnson to just 33 second half yards on 15 carries. And Tennessee was just 2 for 7 on third down - an impressive turnaround from a unit that is known to collapse in the second half.
This was the third consecutive game, by the way, in which the Dolphins shut out their opponent in the fourth quarter - quite the improvement from where they once were. The coaching staff deserves a lot of credit for that.
In the end, though, this defense did all it could but couldn't overcome having to play against the referees, too. They held the Titans to -1 yard of offense following the overtime interception. But the terrible call by the refs to hit Greg Camarillo with a 15 yard penalty set the Titans up for a 46 yard field goal. A tough way to lose - but kudos to the defense for doing their part in the final 30+ minutes of the game.
Playoffs?
I know this will be asked a million times. But the bottom line here is that it's just not likely. To even think about the playoffs, the Dolphins have to first do their part and win their final two games - both at home. Then they need help. Lots of it.
If the Patriots were to collapse and lose both of their remaining games, Miami could win the division. Not likely.
I won't even get into the numerous other playoff scenarios. Let's first let next week play out and then we can (hopefully) look at some of these crazy ways the Dolphins can sneak in.
But don't be disappointed. Think about this. After starting 0-3 and losing Chad Pennington for the season, would you have signed up for 7-7 with two weeks left? I bet most would have - especially with Chad Henne going 7-4 in his first 11 career starts and leading three fourth quarter comebacks (two of which came against the Jets and Pats).
Instead of getting angry or being disappointed about how this season is probably going to end, think about where this team has come from and just how close they are getting to being where we all want this team to be. Despite the loss, it's an exciting time to be a Dolphins fan, folks!
QUICK HITS
Just a few more quick thoughts on Sunday's game:
- Jason Taylor played exceptionally well on Sunday. And I'm not even talking about his sack. He was a key reason why the Dolphins contained Chris Johnson in the second half, setting the edge and keeping CJ inside. I was REALLY impressed with JT's performance. This is the first time where he actually looked like a strongside linebacker.
- I really like this group of receivers. But don' get fooled - they are indeed missing that one key piece: a true #1 receiver. And I'm not ready to buy the idea that Brian Hartline or Davone Bess will become that guy. They could be great complimentary guys, though.
- How much do you think we miss Ronnie Brown?
- Enough with Gibril Wilson. It's time to send him to the bench - and then to unemployment once the season is over. He flat out stinks.
- We desperately need new return men. Ted Ginn runs sideways way too much and Davone Bess is just not fast enough to be a real threat back there.
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first
great post, sit gibril and bring in clemons
also ginn cant manage to get past the 20
start clemons over gibril
sign ronnie to a long term deal
the lousaka monster should be a pro bowler
"We liked a couple of those receivers up there, but we didn't feel there was a guy that was going to come in and make more of a contribution than a linebacker." — Dave Wannstedt, on why he chose Eddie Moore over Anquan Boldin in the 2003 draft
by ronnie brown for president on Dec 21, 2009 12:13 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
In this one game,
where they obviously game planned for him.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Dec 21, 2009 12:13 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Might I remind you that Ted Ginn is one of the best kick return men in the AFC?
I don’t think you are going to find a better replacement anytime soon… Other than that, I agree with the vast majority of what you say.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Dec 21, 2009 12:13 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
false false false
his stats are very misleading
2 kickoff returns for tds in one game and he didnt start returning til late
hes not doin well since then. maybe not him, mite be the blocking, either way something needs to change
start clemons over gibril
sign ronnie to a long term deal
the lousaka monster should be a pro bowler
"We liked a couple of those receivers up there, but we didn't feel there was a guy that was going to come in and make more of a contribution than a linebacker." — Dave Wannstedt, on why he chose Eddie Moore over Anquan Boldin in the 2003 draft
by ronnie brown for president on Dec 21, 2009 12:15 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You are wrong.
He has had SEVERAL big returns since then. You must only remember ones that result in TDs.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Dec 21, 2009 12:16 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Big Returns?
The occasional start on the 30-40 isn’t what I would consider ‘big’. I consider that to be a good return. Anything from 20-30 is average. 40-50… phenomenal. Don’t think ginn has hit that 40… if he did… i jumped off my couch going nuts – may have happened as many times as he caught a TD this year… few to none.
by and1ms238 on Dec 21, 2009 12:19 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
He had a return PAST the 50
two weeks ago. So… yeah.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Dec 21, 2009 12:20 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
that was definitely one of the rare times I jumped off my couch on a kickoff.
so yes, count that one. Any others jump out to you?
And we’re talking about a ‘RETURN MAN’ here… can he actually play the position he was signed for? Not at all. Ginn = Gone in 2010.
by and1ms238 on Dec 21, 2009 12:23 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Yes.
The previous two weeks, he had clutch, toe-sliding sideline grabs. I am starting to wonder if you watch the games.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Dec 21, 2009 12:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Sorry, No excuse.
Ginn has had his chance. Unless he puts up 125 yard games receiving, and 2 TD returns a game over the next 2 games…he’s outta here.
Trade him with a draft pick, and go get us a #1 WR.
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 Dec 21, 2009 12:33 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
i am saying nothing about his receiving skills
just his kick offs
yes a few good ones, but how many times have we started inside the 20 and even inside the 15
unacceptable
receiving wise he is doin much better
start clemons over gibril
sign ronnie to a long term deal
the lousaka monster should be a pro bowler
"We liked a couple of those receivers up there, but we didn't feel there was a guy that was going to come in and make more of a contribution than a linebacker." — Dave Wannstedt, on why he chose Eddie Moore over Anquan Boldin in the 2003 draft
by ronnie brown for president on Dec 21, 2009 12:59 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I wanted to see Sheets
8-8 is a victory at this point!
by phatfinfan on Dec 21, 2009 8:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
man your funny
I agree, trade him with a draft pick for a TRUE #1 reciever this off season while he still has any value. Ginn has gotten better at catching but it means nothing if Ginn catchs the ball and has the Yards after reception. Im impressed with our recieving corp, they sucked in the beggining of the season and now they are getting alot more comfortable with Henne.
Maybe we can do a package for Ginn and Gibril Wilson? What do you think? LoL
Draft Taylor Mays in 2010......................
by B1G SaMoAn TuNa on Dec 21, 2009 6:05 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Stats are misleading??
No they are not. Stats are stats. He is one of the top returners in the game. Stats don’t lie. How many times have you seen him get drilled before he even has a chance to get going?? Did you notice Jason Allen get tossed on his back and then his man hit Ginn around the 20 yard line?? Our blocking is terrible. I hate it when he runs sideways sometimes, but usually its because he is trying to make something out of nothing, because there are no holes. Our return blocking is terrible. Hate on him for his lack of receiving skills (and its well deserved), but he is still a top returner in spite of our bad blocking.
by jjschmid72 on Dec 21, 2009 9:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well actually...
that is skewed quite a bit. Take out the ‘fluke’ game against the jets (and yes, you can very well call that a fluke), and his numbers are just under average… at best.
by and1ms238 on Dec 21, 2009 12:16 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
First off,
that “take away this” argument is BS. If you take away all of Chris Johnson’s runs that are over 8 yards, his stats look mediocre too.
Secondly, did you ACTUALLY crunch those numbers, or are you just talking out of your butt?
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Dec 21, 2009 12:18 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
The amount of times CJ ran over 8 yds...
shit.. that’s gotta be around 20-25 times this year. I’ll bet on that.. right now.
shit.. that’s gotta be around 20-25 times this year. I’ll bet on that.. right now.Tell me Ted Ginn ran past the 20 yd line 20-25 times and I’ll laugh.
by and1ms238 on Dec 21, 2009 12:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ummm
had he started the season as the kick returner… easily he would have returned past the 20 yard line 25 times… Hell, he is probably close to it already. Your mind is clouded by the desire to have something to blame. Ginn is not the source of this team’s problems, nor does he even number among them. Ginn is a serious weapon on ST and a decent wide out that has made some nice catches that past few weeks. Put down the haterade and get a clue.
Driver of the Make David Lee OC Bandwagon
Repentant Former Driver of the Trade-Ronnie-Brown Bandwagon.
by joel311 on Dec 21, 2009 12:23 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Did I claim he was a problem to the team?
No sir. I simply responded to this erroneous comment:
“Might I remind you that Ted Ginn is one of the best kick return men in the AFC?”
I was simply explaining how that ‘sited’ stat is skewed. He’s somewhere in the middle pack of AFC returners. Ted Ginn might as well play two-hand-touch football… because that’s all it takes to get him down.
by and1ms238 on Dec 21, 2009 12:27 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
with you joel
3 new 2010 starting LBers via 2010 draft
Confidence breeds success, self-doubt breeds failure
by Blaze453 on Dec 21, 2009 2:33 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Kick returning
I’m just going to give you the facts. Ginn is averaging 26.5 and Cribbs is averaging 27.8. If you take out Ginns (2) TD returns the avg drops to 22.8. If you take out Cribbs (3) TD returns his avg drops to 23.5. I think we all would say Cribbs is the best kick returner in the game. Well it doesn’t seem like Ginn is too far behind him… 23.5 to 22.8 (taken out the TD runs).. Hell keep in the TD runs and he is only 1.3 yards/return behind….
I’d have to say Ginn is a top 5 kick returner in the game.
Boston Dolphins Fan
by miami25 on Dec 21, 2009 1:02 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ginn is leading the league in highest drank ranking per KR.
He is also leading the league in highest guaranteed money for a KR.
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 Dec 21, 2009 2:23 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
exactly
matty are u seriously blaming kick returns on ginn the blocking is horrendous
by Deuce Black on Dec 21, 2009 11:01 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Henne didn't lose this game....
Our Defense Did…….again.
Interceptions are going to happen when you are trying to overcome a 18 point deficit. No offense, but if I’m the QB of this team, I gotta believe that every single time I step on the field I have to carry it along with one 32 year old running back.
Look, its the same story we’ve heard about all year long. Our defense doesn’t bend, it breaks. Count them….3 TD passes over 20+ yards….in the single game. For most teams, thats a rarity unless your mascot is a Lion, a Ram, or the color of a crap stain… for us, its a regular weekly occurrence
We can’t continue to give up long TD plays. If these were 3 yard TD’s, 1 yard TD runs…. that’s one thing. But these are THREE 20+ yard TD plays. 21 and 22 yarders to Gage, and 32 to Washington. I’d settle for a leaky secondary, but this damn is busted wide open.
Wilson has got to go…
Anyone that wants to blame Henne is doing nothing more than reading a box score. When you defense is giving up those big plays, and you have no reason to believe they will stop (which they really haven’t all season), then you go out and you take risks. You push the limits and push the offense, and you carry them as far as you can. To step on the field in the 4th quarter with the deficit we had to overcome, and drive twice 80+ yards to take this game into Overtime…. That takes guts. To do it in your first season as a starter… that takes confidence. To repeatedly put your team in position to win game after game after your defense gives up ridiculous TD’s and a rapidly increasing deficit? That is a franchise QB. Sign me up.
We didn’t bottle up Chris Johnson, we just didn’t let him score. 160 total yards isn’t bottling anyone up.
Hartline, Bess…..these guys are welcome to stay as long as they like.
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 Dec 21, 2009 12:21 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
agreed
have no idea if V Davis is really good or just plain terrible…. he gets beat on an alarming basis, but then he makes some great plays that few can make????
Tenn got pressure with 4 all day… and i think most of Henne’s picks have been when someone is on him as he’s throwing, he does need to throw it away more (which is on him) but you have to blame the oline (yes VC – was the biggest culprit) on most of henne’s Int’s the last few games…
The Future is now, stop the bandwagon and lets get the Henne train rollin, as we all hope that the 14th dwarf is the real prince charming.
by W NY Fins Fan on Dec 23, 2009 5:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Need more Secondary Help?
I don’t get to watch the games on a regular basis due to my work hours and the fact that I live in Missouri :(. But the highlights of the games and the commentators seem to suggest that our secondary gambles way too much and gets burned…Is that just me over analyzing one game? Or is it just one guy in the secondary that you guys seem to think is causing this? I mean I though Miami was bringing G. Wilson in as a run stopper…so I mean…was he expected to be a stud center fielder in the secondary? Any ideas would be great
by TheChosen on Dec 21, 2009 12:37 AM EST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Agree w/ attitude towards playoffs. Lets talk Houston first
I agree with your thoughts on talking playoffs but I think you are way off when it comes to what the Dolphins need to possilby get a spot.
by markus_13 on Dec 21, 2009 12:40 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
i'm not way off
here’s the situations I’ve broken down so far: http://www.thephinsider.com/2009/12/21/1210443/playoff-scenario-catch-all-thread
by Matty I on Dec 21, 2009 2:15 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
sorry "way off" sounds a little harsh
I guess I mean there were more options that were favorable for the Dolphins that were missed on this post .. you definelty posted all of them on your new one
by markus_13 on Dec 21, 2009 3:11 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Playoffs
Just a slight correction. The Ravens don’t need to lose two games. If they lose to the Steelers next week and Miami wins out, the Phins are in, unless the Jaguars win out also[unlikely]. A little simpler there. Dolphins-Steelers week 17 could be for the 6th seed and a date with the Bengals.
And then there are the collapsing Broncos, who we might also get a tiebreaker over.
by PhinsBeatles on Dec 21, 2009 1:15 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Great Post
I have never been more excited with the Phins in the last 15 years. Seriously. Great nucleus to build around.
Ginn….he needs to stop thinking and start reacting….there is a good football player somewhere inside him…we have seen the flashes…
How much do we miss Ronnie Brown- HUGE….love Ricky….but that one, two punch…..We miss Ferguson, Cobbs, too.
No excuses, but that supposed “Unsportsmanlike Conduct” penalty against Cammi….that is almost criminal for ref’s to make such a horrible call, that may have been the game deciding call.
To have 4 turnovers and almost win is in itself impressive.
Superbowl Starved
by garpow62 on Dec 21, 2009 1:24 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I think today
We REALLY missed ferguson and Ronnie. On the bright side, I really think the dolphins will be an elite team, starting in ’10!!
by Brettdolfan on Dec 21, 2009 1:33 AM EST via mobile up reply actions 0 recs
Horrible Call
that call is what won the game for the titans. the refs didnt even discuss the penalty. cam was just making sure he was down. that call put them into field goal range and they only got a few yards after that. without the call the titans would have been forced to punt it away. so the ref was the one who decided that the titans would win. those types of refs need to get fired.
by danthedolfan on Dec 21, 2009 2:10 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
The refs didnh't blow the game for the Phins
The Phins blew the game for the Phins. If their horrid play during the first half didn’t take place, then a bad call by the ref doesn’t mean shit.
It’s just salt in the wound because of the comeback. If Henne didn’t make the bad throw, the ref wouldn’t have mattered. Not going after Henne because he’s a rook, but I’m just saying
"It is obvious the Patriots souls are on lease - any day now Satan will rise up to New England - kick Tom Brady, Kevin Garnett, and David Ortiz in their luck filled testicles - and turn that area into his personal vacation home here on earth.-Rzayo 24, week one.
"Everybody in that room should be embarrassed. If they’re not embarrassed, they got the wrong job or they’re stealing money from baseball."-Ozzie Guillen 8/28/09
by rangerjae on Dec 21, 2009 7:45 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
not technically
a rook… but i mean for all intensive purposes yeah
by danlr13 on Dec 21, 2009 10:53 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
he's kind of a rook
He only threw in one game last year
11 this year
"It is obvious the Patriots souls are on lease - any day now Satan will rise up to New England - kick Tom Brady, Kevin Garnett, and David Ortiz in their luck filled testicles - and turn that area into his personal vacation home here on earth.-Rzayo 24, week one.
"Everybody in that room should be embarrassed. If they’re not embarrassed, they got the wrong job or they’re stealing money from baseball."-Ozzie Guillen 8/28/09
by rangerjae on Dec 21, 2009 2:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Great post. Dolphins are CLOSE, but just not there
With Pennington going down, Ronnie Brown going down, Jason Ferguson going down, Will Allen going down…I would have never though we would be at .500 at this point given our tough schedule. But here we are anyway with some nice wins. We’ve made a lot of progress this year between our O-line really improving, our rookie corners proving they can play in this league, and of course our young QB Chad Henne showing a lot of potential. But are we a legitimate playoff team and super bowl contender? NO. We are just are missing too many pieces to be an elite team and legitimate contender. But thats fine because we have a young team with a good foundation that is clearly on the upswing. A good draft class next year, a good free agent pickup or two, and I think this Dolphin team will be REALLY GOOD next year. Thats why I’m not so upset about likely m issing the playoffs this year…we’re just not quite there as a team, but we’re damn close.
by goheat on Dec 21, 2009 2:20 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I really appreciate your finding the positive in a most negative day
Peninsula Is Mightier:Your SB Nation Miami Heat Blog Community Juggernaut
"My parents would always say, `It doesn't matter if it`s a guy picking up the garbage or the President of the United States, treat everybody as you would want to be treated.'"- Dan Marino
by DolPhanDave on Dec 21, 2009 3:26 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
i will be upset if we dont make the playoffs
but i def wont be disappointed. after losing as many key players as we did, i didnt expect to still be in the playoff race. people still forget that we are 2 years away from being 1-15. its incredible and extremely impressive how we have rebounded since then.
im only going to be upset because i hate the nfl looooooooooooongggg offseason. especially when we are playing in the playoffs
by donaldhall19 on Dec 21, 2009 3:48 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Heartbreak
Thats the best way to describe last night, i got the chance to watch the whole game.
Matty’s write-up is well detailed, its just so disappointing how we keep shooting ourselfs in the foot like this. We had 3 chances to kick FGs and we turned the ball over. We had a chance to gain huge momentum early after Davis intercepted the first pass, but we settled for the FG (bad call).
Henne just really made poor decisions, the guy has all the tools to be a great QB but in the end, a first year starter in such a tense situtation crumbled, there is no doubt he knows he lost this one (though Ricky fumble really pissed off too).
On the D, yes some of the penalties were a joke but its clear that Gibril Wilson is NOT a free safety, and is too expensive to be a Strong Safety back-up. He needs to be cut and this is a serious position that needs upgrade (more then ILB now i think, with Torbor playing well). NT and #1 WR are most clear, then FS please
the first TD was so poorly played by Wilson, i can understand the PS maybe played 9 men in the box sometimes worried from CJ, and counted on Davis and Smith to be do theirs best in 1-on-1. Smith did a very good job on Britt but Davis had a poor game.
But on the first TD, it was 3rd and long, an obvious pass situation, and the receiver beat the Nickle Back into the end zone, how the hell does a Free Safety allow him to pass by is beyond me. Does he have mental lapses and forget that he is the freaking FREE SAFETY in this game???
The OL was disappointing in the first, especially in pass coverage (and give Henne some credit when Titans rushed 4 and dropped 7 in the 4th, he still managed those long drives despite all that coverage)
really painful how we lost, when we won the toss i couldn’t believe it. You have to love the spirit of this team and the potential on the long run, but imagine this, we would have finished the day as the 6th seed and controlling our destiny (Denver lost to Oakland with their 3rd string QB!).
a really sad Mo right now :(
PS: If Wilson will play FS next week, Andre Johnson will have 200+ yards against us, 100% sure of that
It takes a man to suffer ignorance and smile
by MoLimits on Dec 21, 2009 4:58 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
vontae
did have a rough game statistically… but il make excuses on his part… everybody falls when their legs get tangles at some point, you cant really hold that one against him and the td pass over him was a perfectly thrown ball. i dont think ed reed and troy polamalu could have defended that better… no defense for a perfectly thrown ball
by danlr13 on Dec 21, 2009 11:00 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Playmakers!!!!
This team lacks play makers…..Period
We are only a few pieces away. My Christmas whislist is as follows…..
Wide reciever…deep threat with great hands
Nose tackle… fergie is geting old
FS….wilson flat out sucks
Linebacker..
Play maker tight end
by ecks on Dec 21, 2009 7:29 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Too many offensive penalties!!!!!
That is my comment.
Plus those 3s need to become 7s more often than not. We had the momentum after the interception. That should have become a TD, not FG.
"It is obvious the Patriots souls are on lease - any day now Satan will rise up to New England - kick Tom Brady, Kevin Garnett, and David Ortiz in their luck filled testicles - and turn that area into his personal vacation home here on earth.-Rzayo 24, week one.
"Everybody in that room should be embarrassed. If they’re not embarrassed, they got the wrong job or they’re stealing money from baseball."-Ozzie Guillen 8/28/09
by rangerjae on Dec 21, 2009 7:47 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Good post Matty....
Your’e right about Gibril Wilson…That dude does flat out just stink…
Two words————Eric Berry (if he’s available)
I think they should definately play Clemens and sit Gibril, if for nothing else to send a message…
There was alot of ups-and-downs this season but I think many more pieces of the puzzle were found this offseason and it’s nice to know that Henne can be the quarterback that we haven’t had since Marino…
So all in all it was a fun season and no complaints and now If we don’t make it to the playoffs there’s always the draft to look forward to
by scbrandon on Dec 21, 2009 8:17 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Two words regarded Eric Berry's Availability:
He Won’t.
There’s zero chance he makes it out of the top 5 IMO. He MIGHT go 6 or 7 depending on who’s picking at the top, but I can’t possibly imagine him dropping past that. He’s the best Safety prospect since Sean Taylor.
Phinsider HOF C/O 2009
Winner of Four 2008/2009 Matty Awards
LN21 and MHTD - Goin Commando
I got dibs
by Little Nicky 21 on Dec 21, 2009 9:41 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I'm not mad, or sad, really.
Just spent.
The biggest fool that ever hit the big time -and all I gotta do is act naturally.
by Tunaflipper on Dec 21, 2009 8:33 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
To blame it all on Henne is moronic
Current Phinsider Feud Points: 23
T.Lex doesn't want to be fed, he wants to hunt. Can't just suppress sixty five million years of gut instinct.
by Patssuck456 on Dec 21, 2009 8:44 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Generally, it seems that the team as a whole
plays one good half.
Am I wrong in this observation? Or just tired?
goo goo goojoob
by Tunaflipper on Dec 21, 2009 8:47 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Observations
After watching the Fins play since 1970 I can say that I am proud of how they dug themselves out of a HUGE fhwaulking HOLE yesterday, and gave themselves a chance to win the game. It was a disappointing ending, but that catch by Brian Hartline at the end to help us tie it up was one of the most spectacular catches I have ever seen !!
Fans – we have a Franchise QB – BAR NONE !!
CH07 made mistakes, but remember that he is not playing with a full deck. No Ronnie Brown, no Patrick Cobbs – no #1 WR, and you know what we really do not have a TE like some of the teams we have faced; So Wake Up and Smell The Coffee !!
We are going to come out of this season SMOKIN’ !!!
GO DOLPHINS !! RUN RICKY RUN !! and, THE TEXANS CAN SUCK MAH ORANGE & AQUA BALLS !!
Lets Kick Butt Dolphins!!
by BurlyDude72 on Dec 21, 2009 9:41 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
We played a poor game, TOs, penalties and secondary gaffs,
and yet we took it to overtime, calm down people, lol, we are a good team going through some growing pains.
by uncle finster on Dec 21, 2009 9:55 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
I agree, too
And your sig Finster, is somehow apropos.
goo goo goojoob
by Tunaflipper on Dec 21, 2009 10:14 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Hahahaha,
I guess your right, rally sig?, lol
by uncle finster on Dec 21, 2009 10:21 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Im still a strong dolphins fan
I agree, Im happy and excited about our future. I predict that the power houses earlier this decade will not be the same powerhouse in the next 2-3 years, Look how bad the steelers are playing and the patriots are not the team that punks everyone in the AFC East anymore. We are a couple of players short from being CHAMPIONSHIP Caliber, and our rookies and youngsters are doing well and Im proud of them ie: Sean Smith, Vontae Davis, Cameron Wake, Polite, Hartline, Bess, Jake Long, Randy Starks, Langford, Merling, Soliai, Clemons, Cobbs, Henne" and thats just to name a few.
The future only gets brighter and brighter each game for us.
Go dolphins
Draft Taylor Mays in 2010......................
by B1G SaMoAn TuNa on Dec 21, 2009 6:12 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
2009 dolphins
I agree Matty we can’t throw Henne under the bus. After all he did make a comback to tie the game. Hopefully during this offseason he will reflect on these mistakes to make him a next level QB! All I can say is win the last two games for a strong finish(whether you get in or not to the playoffs)! If they were 0-16 I still be a fan.
Qusestion if Pit beats Balitmore and NE takes down Jac (we win the last two) do we get into the playoffs?
by Flyfinfan on Dec 21, 2009 10:05 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
sit gibril and bring in clemons
by Let Lousaka Score on Dec 21, 2009 10:13 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Ginn and Gibril SUCK
Gibril is an idiot and Ginn is flat out awful at returning kicks. It’s not that hard….make one cut and go. Stop dancing around thinking you are going to make the highlight reels everytime…just run with the damn ball and GET PAST THE 20!
by TEXASdolfan on Dec 21, 2009 10:33 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
Bottom Line
we are NOT a playoff team. Time to start thinking draft and next year. Our offense is good enough to get us in the playoffs. Our Dfense obviously lost us several games this year….(Colts, Saints, Titans).
by dlux2561 on Dec 21, 2009 10:51 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
WRONG ANSWER
Fins are still very much in it.
Take a look at Matty’s Playoff HOPE post.
Most of the teams that will actually make the playoffs are mediocre and the Fins have played the top teams tough
Abandoned the Draft Sean Smith at #25 Bandwagon to Join the Draft Sean Smith at #61 Bandwagon and get Vontae Davis and Chris Clemons. Trio > me.
by DolphDallas on Dec 21, 2009 12:37 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Well Done Matty
You know, I come in here after games like this and, I don’t know why, but I expect stupidity. I’m always disappointed! Matty you hit on everything perfectly and I have nothing to add. The needs ARE safety, #1 wide-out and returner(s). I really had a cautionary but optimistic view of Ginn after his big weekend a few weeks back but he is just awful. He folds up and just goes down. What’s that? And is it just me or does he always look scared? Be that as it may, the bottom line is that it IS an exciting time to be a fan and I can’t remember looking forward to an off-season and draft more than the upcoming one. Great article.
by dolphan since '73 on Dec 21, 2009 10:56 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
il give props to matty
looking back the Bills game killed us… such a shame…
by danlr13 on Dec 21, 2009 11:03 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
With the 21st pick in the 2010 NFL Draft...
The miami dolphins select….
TERRENCE CODY, DT, ALABAMA
6’5 365
by ecks on Dec 21, 2009 11:06 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
(collective groan from Dolphins fans that have watched his lazy ass play)
Phinsider HOF C/O 2009
Winner of Four 2008/2009 Matty Awards
LN21 and MHTD - Goin Commando
I got dibs
by Little Nicky 21 on Dec 21, 2009 9:42 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
2009 Season
BOTTOM LINE It’s important for the Dolphins to win these last two games! It’s important for them to mantain that strengh in face of defeat that alowed them to come back so many times this season! No matter what happens it’s important to finish Strong! Still Believe in you Guys! As quoted from the NFL Network “The Dolphins they are still here? They don’t seem to go Away” I hope this message reaches the team.
JR
by Flyfinfan on Dec 21, 2009 12:05 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
damn straight
they aint going away.. not for a long time they aint
by danlr13 on Dec 21, 2009 12:33 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
How do we contact the NFL and tell them what idiots they are??? lol...anyways...too bad they dont have a system for the refs like they do for players, players mess up = fined....so Ref's make bad calls = FINE!
Although it can be said that bad calls have been, were and will always be called. Not sure I agree with that though because to me that’s just saying hmmm who cares. I don’t like to bitch about something without at least a solution so:
1: Fines for the Refs for making stupid/really bad calls
2: Maybe something like a review for the Refs them selves or a booth where someone takes a look at a penalty call…and see if it was correct or not.
Im sure someone has already thought of this though so Ill just shut up now….just my 2 cents
Phin fan from Germany
by tuscanitunr on Dec 21, 2009 12:41 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
I personally don't like this idea.
The refs are human, mistakes are going to be made.
98% of the time the refs probably make the right calls. I’m not going to sweat the 2% stuff. Even when it costs us games. More than likely we’ll be the recipient of a bad call against another team at sometime in the future… it is what it is.
Reviewing a penalty just slows the game down even more.
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 Dec 21, 2009 2:27 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Most painfull loss of the season
I know we have had some hard luck losses this year like the Saints and Colts games but this one really hit me. You could see how hard our team was playing at the end of the game and to come short was just brutal. I am really proud to be a Dolphins fan I think we are building a solid team the RIGHT way. I think we all have many years of jubilation and excitement ahead of us thanks to this team. For once we have a front office that isnt catering to the constant South Florida demands that us fans usually make. New qb fire this guy fire that guy. They are building a dynasty and I am just getting ready for the ride. Go Dolphins.
by qbinfin on Dec 21, 2009 1:03 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
one thing i forgot to add
Sean Smith had a great day. Bet some of you didn’t notice that, though – because they NEVER threw in his direction.
I think Sean gets lost in the shuffle sometimes but there’s a reason why there were no throws in his direction: he had his man blanketed all game long.
by Matty I on Dec 21, 2009 2:09 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
hey Matty...
is there a site or something that plays the old nfl games? Just something that I can go back and watch…maybe take a look at some of the playcalling….or is it more of…TIVO the game?
Phin fan from Germany
by tuscanitunr on Dec 21, 2009 2:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
MFL Rewind from NFL.com
I don’t think it’s too expensive
by Matty I on Dec 21, 2009 4:53 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
hey Matty
Since we dont have a realistic chance to go to the playoffs, do you think the dolphins will activate Patrick Turner? and give him some game time experience? I read an article of yours in the beggining of the season where you quoted Tony Sparano that he was going to put Turner in sometime this season for game experience. (not sure if I read it in your blog or if it was in miamiherald) I would be excited to see Turner play and see Ginn sit out for a little bit. Please let me know what you think?
thanks
and do you think the dolphins would think about getting Anquon Boldin as our #1 reciever off season?
Draft Taylor Mays in 2010......................
by B1G SaMoAn TuNa on Dec 21, 2009 6:21 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
no on turner
sparno said in todays press conference we still have a pulse and we will play these 2 games as such
3 new 2010 starting LBers via 2010 draft
Confidence breeds success, self-doubt breeds failure
by Blaze453 on Dec 21, 2009 6:31 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
realistic chance?
I think we do. So no – the point is moot.
by Matty I on Dec 21, 2009 9:18 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
thanks matty
I dont mean to say it like “realistic chance” its just alot of teams have to lose for us to go to the playoffs you know what I mean. I love the dolphins since ’97 and Im 23 years old and I still wore my jerseys through the 1-15 season. thanks for all your blogs Matty it always keeps me updated
Draft Taylor Mays in 2010......................
by B1G SaMoAn TuNa on Dec 22, 2009 10:46 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
yeah it always seems the only highlights you get with Smith involved is when he gets beat
but Vontae sees A LOT of balls his way because of Smith. I think we all tend to forget that Smith flat out beat Davis, a higher draft pick, higher paid, and more physical (we know Sparano loves that) player, for the starting job opposite of Will Allen. We are going to have a NASTY CB tandem for the forseeable future.
Phinsider HOF C/O 2009
Winner of Four 2008/2009 Matty Awards
LN21 and MHTD - Goin Commando
I got dibs
by Little Nicky 21 on Dec 21, 2009 9:44 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
You can blame whoever u want,but obviously the blame lies squarely on the playcallers. Some of the things could have been played differently,but henning keeps trying to run the wildcat,and wildpat til it works. Two things come to mind,one,ricky is not able to run the wildcat,and two,why put white in when henne is on fire? Last year,when pennington was in,we never sat him to play henne,we waited til we had more confidence,and was forced to use him. Obviously,white is not ready,the wildcat sucks without rb taking the lead,and to be honest,our lb,saftey core is not built for the coverage schemes we have in place,two rooks should not have to single cover anyone,i blame this on coaching,not the play of the players,and not sporano,except that mebbe he should take the clipboard outta hennings hands
by dolphinfan4lyfe on Dec 21, 2009 3:32 PM EST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
the playcallers?
really? wow
I have killed Henning this year. But yesterday, he didn’t really do anything wrong. And if the players on the field execute, the Dolphins win this game. So enough with this bullshit.
by Matty I on Dec 21, 2009 4:55 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ricky's Wildcat play
scored a TD. Pat White’s WildPat play got us the 2 point conversion to tie the game. how can you say that they didn’t work? If you’re gonna try and be a Monday Morning Quarterback, at least pay attention on Sunday.
Phinsider HOF C/O 2009
Winner of Four 2008/2009 Matty Awards
LN21 and MHTD - Goin Commando
I got dibs
by Little Nicky 21 on Dec 21, 2009 9:46 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
One more thing,this team needs to be played to its smashmouth strengths,we no longer need to be a one trick pony,and i disagree on hartline,that guy surely could become a legitimate number one,or at least come close like a certain steeler reciever i wont mention names
by dolphinfan4lyfe on Dec 21, 2009 3:36 PM EST via mobile reply actions 0 recs
Hartline
Listen – I like the kid a lot. But he’s never going to become a real #1 receiver. It’s just not going to happen.
by Matty I on Dec 21, 2009 4:56 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
I love Hartline, and I agree with Matty
unless he is going to grow a few more inches, get a lot stronger, and jump a lot higher….
he’s a slot or #2 guy at best.
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 Dec 21, 2009 5:57 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
agreed
I see him as a compliment reciever to our future #1 reciever, I think he has great hands and insticts but is really slow even wen he has 3-4 steps ahead of the person covering him.
Draft Taylor Mays in 2010......................
by B1G SaMoAn TuNa on Dec 21, 2009 6:24 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
Ginn
He seems to only be able to play 1 element at a time ok. When he sucks at receiving he does good on kicks and vice versa. I am happy to see him catching better. He also blocked pretty well. Even the announcer noticed I think on a Bess screen. Which I am tired of seeing Bess screens. He is too slow. Ginn caught a bullet in traffic which I was amazed he actually caught. He also stiff armed someone on a kick off return. At least he is trying to play more physical.
by troynuke on Dec 21, 2009 4:26 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
Gerbal
listen to Sparno’s day after briefing(between 5:30 and 7 minute mark and sounds like the frustration of big plays will cost the gerbal big time
3 new 2010 starting LBers via 2010 draft
Confidence breeds success, self-doubt breeds failure
by Blaze453 on Dec 21, 2009 6:34 PM EST reply actions 0 recs
it better
he’s been terrible this year as a FS. I really wonder if he’s just THAT uncomfortable playing in space or if he’s just bad all around. I wouldn’t mind seeing him at SS a little in the next two games, with Clemons in his spot, just to see if he’s better playing that spot…
Phinsider HOF C/O 2009
Winner of Four 2008/2009 Matty Awards
LN21 and MHTD - Goin Commando
I got dibs
by Little Nicky 21 on Dec 21, 2009 9:47 PM EST up reply actions 0 recs
TY someone finally got it right. I thought we made it official last week that #28 from hence forward will only be known as GERBIL!!!!
Wilson = GERBIL, Gibril = GERBIL, # 28 = GERBIL which = PINK SLIP
by D0lphins4Life on Dec 22, 2009 9:25 AM EST up reply actions 0 recs
We all know now what we have as QB as long as he doesn't have his Sophmore/ Junior slump
I believe in the offseason and during Training camp he’ll be able to work on his touch. He’ll finally be able to learn when he needs to use his rocket and a know when he needs to put some touch on the ball. Sunday when he through tthe rocket to Fasano and Fasano dropped it. He really didn’t need to rocket that ball in there he had time he could off took somethin of of it. This I’m sure he’ll learn and get better in the off season. He neds to wrok on judging his distance on his touch passes as well. As we all saw the endzone int. Should’ve happened. With all that said, this kid is getting better and better each week. He’s going through his proggressions quicker. He’s starting to look off WR instead of staring them down. Just give it time and keep believing. GO PHINS!!!
by D0lphins4Life on Dec 22, 2009 9:32 AM EST reply actions 0 recs
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