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The Miami Dolphins are getting ready to face the Baltimore Ravens, with both teams looking to bounce back after poor Week 4 performances. For the Dolphins, that means cutting down on the turnovers, better pass protection, and getting after the quarterback better. That last one could be helped by a return of the injured Cameron Wake.
It again appears Wake's availability for today's game will not be determined until just before game time. Last week, the first notice that the All Pro would not be playing was when his name showed up on the inactive list. Reports said the team and Wake were hoping his knee would allow him to play, but in the last couple of hours prior to kickoff, doctors could not recommend Wake take the field, saying he did not have the strength and stability in his knee he should have.
Most likely, Wake will spend this morning working on getting the clearance that eluded him last week. But, should he be on the field this week?
In a vacuum, that answer is an obvious yes. Wake is the best player on the Miami defense, and he absolutely should always be on the field. This question, however, is not being asked in a vacuum. And, that's what complicates it.
Miami needs better pass rush. Wake helps with that. They have to stop Ray Rice. Wake helps with that.
Alternatively, Wake could be risking further injury to his knee if he rushes back from the sprained MCL. The Dolphins will need him to get after quarterbacks and stop running backs later this year, just like they will today. Aggravating the injury could mean Wake misses more games.
As if that was not enough, add in the bye week. Miami does not have a game next week. That could mean the team will look to sit Wake, giving him two more weeks to get his knee ready for the rest of the season. It could also mean that they know they will have two weeks to rehab his knee if playing today does bother it.
There may not be a right or wrong answer at this point, but we are going to ask you anyway. Vote in our poll to let us know whether or not you think Wake should play today, and, of course, feel free to discuss your reasoning in the comments.
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