The Phinsider - Dolphins vs Falcons: Preseason Week 1 Game StreamA Miami Dolphins community, established November 18, 2006https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/49617/phinsider-fav.png2014-08-10T19:57:34-04:00http://www.thephinsider.com/rss/stream/57465782014-08-10T19:57:34-04:002014-08-10T19:57:34-04:00Dolphins defensive snap counts vs. Falcons
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/j7VIaJEH3ocZQheJGv-DNT58OSM=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36767736/20140808_ajw_sz2_104.JPG.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Miami Dolphins lost to the Atlanta Falcons 16-10 in a Friday night NFL Preseason matchup. </p> <p>The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> dropped their first Preseason game of the 2014 season, losing 16-10 to the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a>. The team took 80 defensive snaps during the contest. We break down the play count for all of the Miami defense (and the special teams players).</p>
<p>
<link href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/assets/3603867/mustreads-compact-only.css" rel="stylesheet">
</p>
<table width="99%" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0">
<colgroup>
<col width="115"> <col width="111"> <col span="2" width="64"> <col width="25"> <col width="64"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="60">
<td width="115" height="60">Player</td>
<td width="111">Position</td>
<td width="64">Snaps</td>
<td width="64">Percent</td>
<td width="25"></td>
<td width="64">Special Teams Snaps</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Terrence Fede</span></td>
<td>Defensive end</td>
<td align="right">41</td>
<td align="right">51%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">9</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Walt Aikens</span></td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">39</td>
<td align="right">49%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">11</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Michael Thomas</td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">39</td>
<td align="right">49%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">8</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Tevin Mims</span></td>
<td>Defensive end</td>
<td align="right">38</td>
<td align="right">18%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">3</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Jordan Kovacs</span></td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">37</td>
<td align="right">46%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">9</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Jelani Jenkins</span></td>
<td>Linebacker</td>
<td align="right">37</td>
<td align="right">46%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">9</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Jordan Tripp</td>
<td>Linebacker</td>
<td align="right">33</td>
<td align="right">41%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">15</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Jamar Taylor</td>
<td>Cornerback</td>
<td align="right">33</td>
<td align="right">41%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">11</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Will Davis</span></td>
<td>Cornerback</td>
<td align="right">33</td>
<td align="right">41%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">8</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Dion Jordan</span></td>
<td>Defensive end</td>
<td align="right">32</td>
<td align="right">40%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">7</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Jason Trusnik</td>
<td>Linebacker</td>
<td align="right">30</td>
<td align="right">38%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">9</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Anthony Johnson</span></td>
<td>Defensive tackle</td>
<td align="right">30</td>
<td align="right">38%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">1</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Steven Clarke</span></td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">27</td>
<td align="right">34%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">7</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Kamal Johnson</span></td>
<td>Defensive tackle</td>
<td align="right">26</td>
<td align="right">32%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Chris McCain</span></td>
<td>Linebacker</td>
<td align="right">24</td>
<td align="right">30%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">12</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Kevin Fogg</span></td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">23</td>
<td align="right">29%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">7</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">D'Aundre Reed</td>
<td>Defensive end</td>
<td align="right">22</td>
<td align="right">28%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Jimmy Wilson</td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">22</td>
<td align="right">28%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Jonathan Freeny</span></td>
<td>Linebacker</td>
<td align="right">21</td>
<td align="right">26%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">11</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Don Jones</span></td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">20</td>
<td align="right">25%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">12</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>A.J. Francis</span></td>
<td>Defensive tackle</td>
<td align="right">20</td>
<td align="right">25%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">4</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Isaako Aaitui</span></td>
<td>Defensive tackle</td>
<td align="right">18</td>
<td align="right">22%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">3</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Reshad Jones</span></td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">18</td>
<td align="right">22%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Cortland Finnegan</span></td>
<td>Cornerback</td>
<td align="right">18</td>
<td align="right">22%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Brent Grimes</span></td>
<td>Cornerback</td>
<td align="right">18</td>
<td align="right">22%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Louis Delmas</span></td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">18</td>
<td align="right">22%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Garrison Smith</td>
<td>Defensive tackle</td>
<td align="right">17</td>
<td align="right">21%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Micajah Reynolds</td>
<td>Defensive tackle</td>
<td align="right">16</td>
<td align="right">20%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Demetrius Wright</td>
<td>Safety</td>
<td align="right">15</td>
<td align="right">19%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">7</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Koa Misi</span></td>
<td>Linebacker</td>
<td align="right">15</td>
<td align="right">19%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Dannell Ellerbe</span></td>
<td>Linebacker</td>
<td align="right">15</td>
<td align="right">19%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Philip Wheeler</td>
<td>Linebacker</td>
<td align="right">14</td>
<td align="right">18%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Earl Mitchell</span></td>
<td>Defensive tackle</td>
<td align="right">13</td>
<td align="right">16%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">1</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Derrick Shelby</td>
<td>Defensive end</td>
<td align="right">13</td>
<td align="right">16%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">1</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Jared Odrick</span></td>
<td>Defensive tackle</td>
<td align="right">13</td>
<td align="right">16%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Cameron Wake</span></td>
<td>Defensive end</td>
<td align="right">12</td>
<td align="right">15%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Andrew Wilson</td>
<td>Linebacker</td>
<td align="right">11</td>
<td align="right">14%</td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">9</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Randy Starks</td>
<td>Defensive tackle</td>
<td align="right">9</td>
<td align="right">11%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Brandon Fields</span></td>
<td>Punter</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">9</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>John Denney</span></td>
<td>Long snapper</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">7</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Danny Hrapmann</td>
<td>Kicker</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
<td align="right">5</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/8/10/5989421/dolphins-vs-falcons-2014-preseason-defensive-snap-counts-for-miamiKevin Nogle2014-08-10T13:20:11-04:002014-08-10T13:20:11-04:00Dolphins offensive snap counts vs. Falcons
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/RpGIcEqyI0JHdnfXnvv-RFaQGtk=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36755970/453361546.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Scott Cunningham</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Miami Dolphins lost to the Atlanta Falcons Friday night in Week 1 of the NFL Preseason. </p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> dropped their first Preseason game of the 2014 season, losing 16-10 to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a>. The team took 60 offensive snaps during the contest. We break down the play count for all of the Miami offense.</p>
<table width="473" cellspacing="0" cellpadding="0" border="0">
<colgroup>
<col width="119"> <col width="109"> <col width="64"> <col width="64"> <col width="25"> <col width="92"> </colgroup>
<tbody>
<tr height="40">
<td width="119" height="40"><b>Player</b></td>
<td width="109"><b>Position</b></td>
<td width="64"><b>Snaps</b></td>
<td width="64"><b>Percent</b></td>
<td width="25"></td>
<td width="92"><b>Special Teams Snaps</b></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Seth Lobato</span></td>
<td>Quarterback</td>
<td>50</td>
<td>83%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Brett Brackett</span></td>
<td>Tight end</td>
<td>33</td>
<td>55%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Jason Fox</span></td>
<td>Offensive tackle</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>50%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Ja'Wuan James</span></td>
<td>Offensive tackle</td>
<td>30</td>
<td>50%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Kyle Miller</span></td>
<td>Tight end</td>
<td>28</td>
<td>47%</td>
<td></td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Dallas Thomas</td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>42%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Samson Satele</span></td>
<td>Center</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>42%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Damien Williams</td>
<td>Running back</td>
<td>22</td>
<td>37%</td>
<td></td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Shelley Smith</span></td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>21</td>
<td>35%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>David Arkin</span></td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>33%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Evan Finkenberg</span></td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>33%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Tyler Larsen</span></td>
<td>Center</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>33%</td>
<td></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Steven Baker</span></td>
<td>Offensive tackle</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>33%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Tony Hills</span></td>
<td>Offensive tackle</td>
<td>20</td>
<td>33%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Rishard Matthews</span></td>
<td>Wide receiver</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>32%</td>
<td></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Jarvis Landry</span></td>
<td>Wide receiver</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>32%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Daryn Colledge</span></td>
<td>Guard</td>
<td>19</td>
<td>32%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Kevin Cone</span></td>
<td>Wide receiver</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>30%</td>
<td></td>
<td>10</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Matt Hazel</span></td>
<td>Wide receiver</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>30%</td>
<td></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Ryan Spadola</span></td>
<td>Wide receiver</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>28%</td>
<td></td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Orleans Darkwa</span></td>
<td>Running back</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>28%</td>
<td></td>
<td>6</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Marcus Thigpen</td>
<td>Running back</td>
<td>17</td>
<td>28%</td>
<td></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Dion Sims</span></td>
<td>Tight end</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>27%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Damian Williams</td>
<td>Wide receiver</td>
<td>16</td>
<td>27%</td>
<td></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Armon Binns</span></td>
<td>Wide receiver</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>25%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Nate Garner</span></td>
<td>Offensive tackle</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>25%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Billy Turner</td>
<td>Offensive tackle</td>
<td>15</td>
<td>25%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20">Raymond Webber</td>
<td>Tight end</td>
<td>14</td>
<td>23%</td>
<td></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Mike Gillislee</span></td>
<td>Running back</td>
<td>12</td>
<td>20%</td>
<td></td>
<td>9</td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Sam Brenner</span></td>
<td>Center</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>17%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Ryan Tannehill</span></td>
<td>Quarterback</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>17%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Lamar Miller</span></td>
<td>Running back</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>17%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Branden Albert</span></td>
<td>Offensive tackle</td>
<td>10</td>
<td>17%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Brandon Gibson</span></td>
<td>Wide receiver</td>
<td>8</td>
<td>13%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
<tr height="20">
<td height="20"><span>Arthur Lynch</span></td>
<td>Tight end</td>
<td>1</td>
<td>2%</td>
<td></td>
<td></td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/8/10/5988211/dolphins-snap-counts-versus-atlanta-falcons-offenseKevin Nogle2014-08-10T07:00:03-04:002014-08-10T07:00:03-04:00Dolphins game ball from Preseason Week 1 loss
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fVNfzvs_WlC8ids-9qeCfneEoME=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36741696/453361978.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Scott Cunningham</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Friday night, the Miami Dolphins lost to the Atlanta Falcons in the first week of the NFL Preseason. Despite dropping the contest, there were some good performances to come out of the game for the Dolphins.</p> <p>It's a Preseason loss, which really does not mean much, though we would all have like to see the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> beat the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> in Friday night's exhibition season debut. Instead, the Falcons were able to lock up a 16-10 victory thanks to some late game field goals, while the Dolphins were unable to match.</p>
<p>The Dolphins' had some strong performances during the game, especially from younger players on the depth chart. Linebackers Chris McCain and <span>Jordan Tripp</span> both had strong nights, as well as wide receiver <span>Jarvis Landry</span> and defensive end <span>Terrence Fede</span>. The younger players seemed to take advantage of their chance to shine during a game when most starters do not play very long.</p>
<p>Who had the best performance of the night?</p>
<h4>Preseason Week 1 Game Ball</h4>
<p><span>Ja'Wuan James</span>, offensive tackle</p>
<p>Not enough can be said of the performance put in by Miami first round draft choice Ja'Wuan James. The rookie from Tennessee played exactly half the offensive snaps on the day, the most of any lineman for Miami, and he never had an issue. His name was not called on a penalty. He did not give up a sack. He took his first snaps as a professional in a live situation - albeit a preseason situation - and he did not get noticed. Exactly what you want from an offensive lineman.</p>
<p>James was not, by any means, perfect on the night. He needs to improve on his run blocking, but playing offensive line on a team that allowed 58 sacks last year and is starting five new offensive linemen this year, not allowing a sack and not being called for a penalty - despite the flag-happy referees in the game - is exactly what the team needed. The fact that he stayed in the game for 30 snaps, triple what most of the starters played for Miami, gave him some of the experience that he needs.</p>
<p>There was nothing spectacular about James' performance on Friday, but there did not need to be anything spectacular. There needed to be a solid performance, and a performance on which the rookie can build. That's exactly what happened.</p>
<h4>Honorable Mention</h4>
<p>Fede's ability to get after the quarterback, despite not recording a sack, and Tripp's three tackles and a pass defense, both deserve consideration, as well as the three reception, 57 yard night from tight end <span>Brett Brackett</span>.</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/8/10/5987323/dolphins-vs-falcons-miami-game-ball-from-preseason-game-oneKevin Nogle2014-08-09T08:30:02-04:002014-08-09T08:30:02-04:0011 Thoughts on the Dolphins' Preseason Opener
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<img alt="Dolphins' running back Damien Williams getting tackled in Friday's preseason opener" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/DeJRDOqNRJ4I8BQPbdlcMW2TAbQ=/0x0:3720x2480/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/36712550/453361566.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Dolphins' running back Damien Williams getting tackled in Friday's preseason opener | Scott Cunningham</figcaption>
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<p>11 thoughts on the Miami Dolphins' preseason Week 1 game against the Atlanta Falcons. </p> <p>The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Miami Dolphins</a> took the field for the first time Friday night in their preseason opener against the Atlanta Falcons, and though we have much to see before we can make any definitive judgments about this team, what we saw tonight was very promising.</p>
<p>Here are my eleven thoughts following the game. You can catch a replay of the game at 10 AM /ET Saturday morning on NFL network.</p>
<p><big>1. Forget the final score, this game was all about <span>Ryan Tannehill</span> and the first team offense</big></p>
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<p>Tannehill was perfect on the night, going 6-6 for 61 yards, including an 8-yard touchdown pass to WR Brandon Gibson. <span>Lamar Miller</span> looked quick and physical as the first team running back, though his issues with catching passes (which are real and concerning) resurfaced. The first team offense marched down the field effortlessly in their only drive of the game. And they did it all without <span>Mike Wallace</span>, <span>Mike Pouncey</span>, <span>Brian Hartline</span> and <span>Charles Clay</span> (four of their best and most important offensive players).</p>
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<p><big>2. The Dolphins' new offense under coordinator Bill Lazor looks exciting when ran correctly</big></p>
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<p>The Dolphins new offense was very effective tonight and showed the promise it possesses. It had everything that Dolphins fans had been hoping and asking for in the wake of last season's failures on offense. The offense was fast-paced, crisp, creative, had multiple formations and dictated the game, keeping the opposing defense on their heels and forcing adjustments.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, when the first team offense exited the field the ability to execute plays left with them. Nonetheless, the offense made it's mark and left a lot of fans waiting for more following the Dolphins opening drive touchdown. I'll tell you this, I can't wait to see this offense unleashed <em>fully</em> in Week 1 of the regular season.</p>
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<p><big>3. The second team offense was hard to evaluate due to the performance <span>Seth Lobato</span></big></p>
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<p>Seth Lobato will always have the experience of playing nearly an entire NFL game. With that being said, I don't think he will be on an NFL roster come September. The second team offense was very hard to gauge due to the fact that Lobato, who is not NFL caliber, was at quarterback. I, along with the members of the second team, cannot wait until <span>Matt Moore</span> returns from his sore shoulder so I can gauge not only the second team offense, but also the first team.</p>
<p>With a real NFL QB, receivers will be able to make the necessary plays to separate themselves from the logjam that exists after the Mike Wallace and Brian Hartline at the WR position. Also, we will be able to tell just how well Tannehill is playing when we're able to compare his offense to a Moore-ran offense (rather than a Lobato-ran offense).</p>
<p>When discussing Lobato, however, it can't be ignored that the offensive line looked like hot garbage. Lobato, who played the entire game after Ryan Tannehill exited, suffered only one sack, but faced consistent pressure and the line struggled to open up holes for running backs <span>Mike Gillislee</span> and <span>Damien Williams</span>.</p>
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<p><big>4. Mike Gillislee, <span>Terrence Fede</span>, <span>Anthony Johnson</span> and <span>Chris McCain</span> were all impressive</big></p>
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<p>Gillislee broke some nice runs behind a second team offensive line that was struggling. Gillislee had eight runs for 30 yards and nearly all of his yards came on runs where he had to be creative due to a lack of adequate blocking. Gillislee showed that he may be ready to contribute in his sophomore season.</p>
<p>Fede looked good once again and had a nice tackle where he stonewalled a running back at the line of scrimmage. Every time I see Fede he impresses me. This 2013 Pioneer League defensive player of the year has great potential and is working with the right coach (Kacy Rodgers) to be able to turn himself into an effective defensive end.</p>
<p>Anthony Johnson had a beast of a tackle for loss where he blew past a guard trying to block him and clobbered the running back in the backfield. Johnson was one of a few Dolphins defensive tackles to have beast plays, showing the depth the Dolphins have at the position.</p>
<p>Chris McCain was around the ball constantly when he was on the field, including special teams work. McCain was in on a few tackles in the backfield and prevented the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons" class="sbn-auto-link">Falcons</a>' back-up quarterback from scrambling for a first down. The only negative for McCain was getting beat bad on a wheel route from a Falcons running back, but I am excited to see more from McCain next week (hopefully earlier in the game).</p>
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<p><big>5. Damien Williams was lackluster, then exciting, then injured</big></p>
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<p>Williams, who I was really excited to see tonight, didn't really impress me in his preseason debut. Williams had a nice punt return, a very short kickoff return, a tough fourth down run and a few nice receptions, including a screen pass he should have scored on. Overall, Williams was very inconsistent on Friday, finishing with only two yards rushing. Williams' night ended prematurely when he was hit low and had to be carted off the field with an apparent ankle injury.</p>
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<p><big>6. The defense had trouble getting off the field and had plenty of mental mistakes</big></p>
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<p>The Dolphins' mental mistakes resulted in extended drives and eventual points for the Falcons, the first being a touchdown drive on the first team defense that lasted 15 plays. Both starting safeties were guilty as <span>Louis Delmas</span> committed an illegal contact that gave the Falcons a first down and Reshad Jones illegally used his hands near the goal line on third down to offset a holding penalty by the Falcons' Jake Matthews to give the Falcons another cahnce. Philip Wheeler hit <span>Matt Ryan</span> late the next play to draw a roughing the passer penalty and set the Falcons up with a first down at the two yard line. The Dolphins, as a team, had ten penalties for 78 yards.</p>
<p>The Dolphins' defense watched three drives of at least 13 plays, the drive allowed by the first team being the longest. The good news is-- it's the first game of the preseason. This is the time that these mistakes will (and can) happen. If the mental errors that caused these issues on Friday night continue through the latter part of the preseason, then we will have reason for concern.</p>
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<p><big>7. Covering scatbacks is going to be a problem this season</big></p>
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<p><span>Jacquizz Rodgers</span>, someone who fits the scatback description quite well, ran right by a couple of attempted tackles by <span>Koa Misi</span> and <span>Philip Wheeler</span> after a checkdown pass from QB Matt Ryan. Quicker, faster running backs will be an issue for this team on checkdowns, whether in the middle of the field or on swing passes towards the sideline. The coverage of scatbacks is something that I expect to be a recurring issue with the Dolphins this season, but this issue can be reduced greatly if the Dolphins' linebackers improve their tackling (though better play recognition and proper angles could also help). Which leads us to...</p>
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<p><big>8. Tackling was an issue</big></p>
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<p>The Dolphins tackling was atrocious in this game. This may be a result of the new CBA that restricts practice time in pads and the amount of hitting/tackling allowed in practices, but all excuses aside, the Dolphins need serious work in this area. The Dolphins defense was unable to get itself off of the field due to a multitude of simple mistakes such as missed tackles and penalties.</p>
<p>Head Coach Joe Philbin will likely look to correct this issue throughout the week as to not tackle (and play) so sloppily on defense when the Dolphins travel to take on the <a href="https://www.bucsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Tampa Bay Buccaneers</a> next week.</p>
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<p><big>9. <span>Reshad Jones'</span> suspension may be a problem<big></big></big></p>
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<p>I am a big fan of <span>Jimmy Wilson</span>, Reshad Jones' proposed replacement as safety while the latter sits out the first four game due to suspension, but a Wilson mistake nearly cost the Dolphins a touchdown in the first half. Wilson, playing second team safety, came up to make a stop in a huge hole that formed in a space that DE Derrick Shelby and LB Jelani Jenkins left unoccupied. Wilson had a huge area to cover, but his angle of pursuit was a bit off and it left him susceptible to a juke move.</p>
<p>Wilson was shook out of his shoes and whiffed on what would be a touchdown-saving tackle. Luckily for Wilson the play was erased due to a holding penalty by Falcons' rookie tackle Jake Matthews. We've seen Jones miss similar tackles, but not often. It will be interesting to see if Jones' absence has any ill-effects and how the Dolphins choose to replace him.</p>
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<p><big>10. I'm a fan of Misi in the middle </big></p>
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<p>Koa Misi, one of the biggest linebackers the Dolphins have, seems to be a good fit in the middle. Misi is a smart player who knows where he needs to be, and that is a great asset to have in the middle of the defense where being out of your run lane can lead to allowing huge gains on the ground. Misi, a former defensive end, is also a bull when blitzing. Double "A" gap blitzes are a staple of defensive coordinator Kevin Coyle's system, so we will see Misi hunting quarterbacks plenty this season.</p>
<p>I expect Misi to be much better in this role than <span>Dannell Ellerbe</span> was due to the difference in physicality between the two players. For the record, Ellerbe looked good in his outside linebacker role tonight. The swapping of duties with Misi should benefit Ellerbe greatly and we will see it on the field with a faster playing and more effective/impressive Ellerbe.</p>
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<p><big>11. <span>Will Davis</span> showed ball-hawking ability</big></p>
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<p>Davis is often forgotten about as many fans prefer to talk up fellow cornerback <span>Jamar Taylor</span>, who was taken a round earlier than Davis in the 2013 NFL Draft. However, it was Davis that showed play-making ability on Friday. Davis had an opportunity to pull down four interceptions. While none of the plays were finished, which keeps stat sheet watchers from knowing Davis' impact, the ball-hawking ability that Davis displayed was promising for the future of a secondary that currently has two starting cornerbacks over the age of 30.</p>
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https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/8/9/5985217/11-thoughts-on-the-miami-dolphins-preseason-openerDanny Williams2014-08-08T23:40:46-04:002014-08-08T23:40:46-04:00Immediate reaction to Dolphins loss to Falcons
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<figcaption>Scott Cunningham</figcaption>
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<p>The Miami Dolphins lost to the Atlanta Falcons 16-10 in Week 1 of the NFL Preseason. We give you our immediate reactions to the game.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> and <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a> opened their respective NFL Preseason campaigns tonight in a contest in the Georgia Dome. At the end of a 60 minute game that featured players deep on the depth chart throughout much of the matchup, Atlanta came away with the 16-10 victory.</p>
<p>What was some of the good and bad for the Dolphins in this game?</p>
<h4>Trending Up</h4>
<p>1. <b>Dolphins first team offense -</b> They were only on the field for 10 plays, but the new look Miami offense drove 73-yards down the field on those plays. The drive was capped with a six yard touchdown pass from <span>Ryan Tannehill</span> to <span>Brandon Gibson</span>. The offense was balanced (six passes, five runs), and seemed to have success moving the ball on through the air. To be fair, this was one series, against a team that struggled on defense last year, and with little film available for the Dolphins' attack, but it was good to see. Tannehill ended the drive (and the game) having gone six-for-six passing, for 62-yards, with the touchdown, giving him a 149.3 passer rating. In a game where big name offensive weapons, including <span>Mike Wallace</span>, <span>Brian Hartline</span>, and <span>Charles Clay</span>, did not play, Tannehill spread the ball around and scored. It was a good start.</p>
<p>2. <b><span>Brett Brackett</span> -</b> Deep down the tight end depth chart, Brackett is not exactly someone fans are waiting to see each week. In this game, however, he came out and took advantage of his playing time, recording a team high three receptions, for a team high 57 yards, including one play where he caught a short pass and turned it into a 30-yard gain. He looked good on the field and played well, which is all you can ask from a player in his situation.</p>
<p>3. <b><span>Ja'Wuan James</span> - </b>Miami's first round draft choice was never a focal point of the game - and that's exactly what you want from a rookie offensive lineman. Playing into the second half, James did not allow a sack, and was never called for a penalty. There were plenty of flags during the game (19 combined), but none were on James, and that's exactly what you want. There's still room to grow, obviously, but for the first taste of live NFL action, James held his own.</p>
<h4>Falling Down</h4>
<p>1. <b><span>Dion Jordan</span> -</b> Jordan did not really do anything poorly tonight, but, when he had an extended opportunity due to the injury to <span>Olivier Vernon</span>, he did not take advantage of it. He had one tackle during the game. That's it. For a third overall Draft choice entering his second season, one tackle in the first preseason game is a pretty light night. Unfortunately for Jordan, he was on the field for much more than a one tackle performance would indicate.</p>
<p>2. <b><span>Seth Lobato</span> -</b> Miami's fourth string quarterback played the entire game, minus Tannehill's first drive. He never looked comfortable, and never really got the offense moving. The only score after Tannehill left the game came after a four-yard drive following a <span>Jarvis Landry</span> 48-yard punt return. Lobato was 14-for-28 for 124 yards. He was not bad, he was just not comfortable. The team did not use fifth string quarterback <span>Brock Jensen</span> at all during this game, while second string passer <span>Matt Moore</span> and third stringer <span>Pat Devlin</span> were injured, so this was Lobato's chance to prove himself, and he didn't do it.</p>
<p>3. <b>Tackling - </b>The Dolphins defense allowed way too many runners to run through them. This was a problem last year as well, and it does not appear, at least after one preseason game, to have solved itself. Repeatedly, the Dolphins would hit a player in the backfield, or shortly after the line of scrimmage, only to let the runner continue on for at least a few more yards. Miami has to fix the tackling issue, and they have to do it fast.</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/8/8/5984981/dolphins-vs-falcons-2014-immediate-reaction-to-dolphins-16-10-lossKevin Nogle2014-08-08T20:39:50-04:002014-08-08T20:39:50-04:00Halftime<h3 class="link-title"><a rel="nofollow" href="/rss/stream/5746578">Halftime</a></h3>
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https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/8/8/5984691/halftimeKevin Nogle2014-08-08T20:34:08-04:002014-08-08T20:34:08-04:00Dolphins, Falcons tied 10-10; 2nd half live thread
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<figcaption>Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Miami Dolphins and Atlanta Falcons have completed the first half of their preseason contest. Join us to discuss all the action in the second 30 minutes.</p> <p><a href="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4877060/Dolphins_at_Falcons_-_2014_PS_1.png" target="_blank"><img alt="Dolphins_at_falcons_-_2014_ps_1_medium" class="photo" src="http://cdn1.vox-cdn.com/assets/4877060/Dolphins_at_Falcons_-_2014_PS_1.png" width="100%/"></a> <br id="1407542209974"></p>
<p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> have reached the midway point of their Preseason Week 1 contest against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/atlanta-falcons">Atlanta Falcons</a>. As anticipated, the majority of the game has been played by the depth players for both teams.</p>
<p>The game opened exactly how you would want for the Miami offense, taking the opening kickoff and scoring on the drive. Moving the ball 82-yards in 11-plays, the Dolphins were able to run and pass at will, including quarterback <span>Ryan Tannehill</span> completing all six of his pass attempts on the drive. He capped it with a six-yard touchdown pass to <span>Brandon Gibson</span>.</p>
<p>The defense, however, allowed the Falcons to answer on their opening drive, thanks to several ill-timed penalties. Following a <span>Jacquizz Rodgers</span> touchdown, the game was turned over to the backups for both teams.</p>
<p>After several punts back-and-forth, the Dolphins were able to finally put up a second score behind quarterback <span>Seth Lobato</span> - though it was only a four yard drive thinks to a 48-yard punt return from <span>Jarvis Landry</span>. Kicker Danny Hrapmann, who was signed by the Dolphins just two days ago, connected on a 42-yard field goal, giving Miami a 10-7 lead.</p>
<p>The Falcons were able to tie the game at 10 as the first half concluded, connecting on a 21-yard field goal with no time on the clock.</p>
<p>Atlanta receives the ball at the start of the second half.</p>
<p>Use this thread as the live thread for the remainder of the game. Remember: <b>Do not request or post links to illegal internet streams of the game (instant temporary ban if you do).</b></p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/8/8/5984599/dolphins-vs-falcons-preseason-game-live-thread-second-halfKevin Nogle2014-08-08T19:48:04-04:002014-08-08T19:48:04-04:00TD Dolphins! Tannehill to Gibson<h3 class="link-title"><a rel="nofollow" href="/rss/stream/5746578">TD Dolphins! Tannehill to&nbsp;Gibson</a></h3>
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https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/8/8/5984573/td-dolphins-tannehill-to-gibsonKevin Nogle