Yes, the Miami Dolphins are playing the San Diego Chargers today. You got that? The San Diego Chargers. Not the Carolina Panthers. If you didn't see the headline yesterday, you're probably a little confused. If you did see it, you understand.
The Dolphins do take on the Chargers in just a few hours, but it's becoming more and more difficult for the Dolphins to chalk up their first win of the season.
On Friday, the team ruled defensive end Tony McDaniel (hand) out, while listing cornerback Vontae Davis (hamstring), linebacker Koa Misi (neck), and running back Daniel Thomas (hamstring) as questionable. Cornerback Will Allen (hamstring), guard Vernon Carey (shoulder), and wide receiver Roberto Wallace (quadricep) were all also on the injury report, listed as probable.
The "out" portion of the list got longer on Saturday. Neither Davis or Thomas traveled to San Diego with the team. Misi was also ruled out on Saturday.
Although missing Misi - who I think was actually declared missing from the Dolphins defense two weeks ago - isn't something the fans will notice, Davis and Thomas are large portions of the Dolphins game against the Chargers. Both were seen practicing during the week, and were thought to be ready to go this week. But, both continue to struggle with their hamstring injuries.
While the Dolphins will look to cover Davis' position with Sean Smith, Will Allen, Nolan Carroll, and Jimmy Wilson, the running back position is even a bigger mess. Reggie Bush, who wants to be the Dolphins' feature back, is not producing as well as he probably should. Lex Hilliard has worked out as a fullback, and only has two carries for five yards on the year. Charles Clay, the rookie "h-back" for the team, has been used simply as a blocker in the one appearance he has.
Which brings us to the Dolphins acquisition of Steve Slaton from Houston this past week. Slaton may go from being released by the Texans, to be a major contributor on the Dolphins this week.
As the Dolphins prepare for Chargers this weekend, they sre going to have to have several players step up in the absence of the starter - which so far this year, they have't been able to do. If Miami is finally going to get that first 2011 win., an unexpected name may have to be the biggest player on the field.
As for the Chargers' official injury report from Friday:
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OUT |
DE Luis Castillo (tibia), DE Jacques Cesaire (knee) |
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DOUBTFUL |
TE Antonio Gates (foot), CB Quentin Jammer (hamstring) |
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QUESTIONABLE |
WR Malcom Floyd (groin), WR Vincent Jackson (abdomen) |
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PROBABLE |
LB Na'il Diggs (groin), DE Corey Liuget (ankle), RB Ryan Mathews (foot) |
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