Game Tape from Miami Dolphins @ New Orleans Saints, 2013

Ryan Tannehill had 4 turnovers (3 interceptions and a lost fumble) in the 2013 contest, so it’s kind of hard to evaluate the Miami Dolphins offense. Were there some positive plays in both the pass and run? Absolutely. 4 turnovers is just too much to overcome in the NFL.

I’ll admit, I think we can stymie the New Orleans Saints running game and make them one-dimensional.

But...Drew Brees.

He threw for 330+ yards and 4 TD’s in the 2013 tilt. Let’s take a look at 2 snaps from the Miami Dolphins pass defense.

What Not to Do

Pre-snap, Brees motions a stacked group to a slot/perimeter position. Reshad Jones comes in hot and Darren Sproles runs a gorgeous wheel route - the Saints would routinely take advantage of our aggression in this game. Brees had a perfect crescent-shaped pocket to work from.

This was the 2nd play of the game, mind you.

What To Do

First of all, you notice a much better interior push. This suffocates the pocket and the DE’s are getting upfield while not allowing the edge. Can’t ignore the lack of separation by Saints WR’s either - this is how the interplay between the rush and the secondary is supposed to work.

For those vertical routes, Brees didn’t even have time or space to step into a throw of 40-50+ yards, and the crossing routes simply took too long to develop. Good defense, simply put. We’ll need our defensive line to continue its excellent play tomorrow in London.

I’m eager to move on from that abysmal New York Jets game and get back to winning football games! Cheers. See y’all in the morning, bright and early.