As Dolphin fans, we haven't exactly had the opportunity to basque in the warm and glorious light shed on the heads of those of winning franchises. Not us. We Dolphins fans are perennial losers. As Bob Dillon once said, "That long black cloud is coming down, feels like we're knocking on Cowher's/Gruden's/ Some new H.C.'s door. 

With so much wrong with this team, it's easy to overlook the positives. The observant and keen eyes of true NFL fans don't let much slip through the cracks though. I know, without much doubt, that many of you are seeing some things to smile about and feel a bit more optimistic about our future, than a 3-8 team should truly warrant. 

These are my top 5 reasons to be optimistic about our future:

5) Matt Moore is looking like a starter.

I won't say he's a franchise QB, which he obviously isn't at this point in his career, but I will say that I rank him among the second tier of starters (a notch...a few notches below the likes of Manning, Brady, Brees etc.). He will definitely be of benefit to us while we develop our rookie QB.

4) There is no doubt that we will be drafting a QB in 2012's draft.

That is a reason for hope if you ask me. The rookie QB's this year have truly been outstanding. In my time, as a football fan, I have yet to see a QB draft class this impressive. Andy Dalton, Cam Newton, Christian Ponder, Jake Locker, and in the short playing time he's had, Ryan Mallet. Cam Newton and Andy Dalton have made an immediate impact, but they all look promising. This years crop looks like they could potentially be even better. Even without Luck on our side, I still like our chances with Barkley, RGIII or Jones. 

3) Reggie Bush and Daniel Thomas are looking like a perfect match.

They complement each other so well. An explosive and elusive RB, paired up with a bruiser. Reggie has found his niche in this offense or Daboll figured out how to utilize him. Either way, he is impacting games and running like he wants to hurt somebody. It's been a joy to watch him grow with our offense. Daniel Thomas has shown flashes, especially before the hamstring injury.

2) The draft/trades/free agency.

For the last  few years Ireland has done some good for our team, not just one blunder after the next. Starting with just last years draft: Pouncy, Thomas, Gates, and Clay all look promising to me. I'll even throw in one of my personal favorites... Jimmy Wilson. Keep an eye on this guy.

Ireland has kept busy over the last couple years. During our active off-seasons, he's acquired Bush, Marshall and Dansby. These all seem to be working out quite nicely. He may not be here next year and if so, his successor must sure up the right side of our O-line and upgrade the free safety position. 

1) A new coaching staff.

Sparano just doesn't cut it as a head coach. The jury is still out on Daboll and Nolan should stay if our defense continues to improve. This 4-game stretch has been impressive. Even the game against the Cowboys was impressive. They should have only scored 13 points in that game, if not for the turnover on the 5-yard line. Depending on who we bring in, this head coach might provide that jolt we need to re-energize this team. Though, I must say, they look to be re-energized as of late. Maybe this will carry over into next year.

With all the negativity that follows this team, we must realize the sky isn't falling...yet. If we don't draft a QB in the first round, you may want to consider an underground shelter.