The Phinsider - Minnesota Vikings vs Miami Dolphins: Dolphins top Minnesota on blocked punt safetyA Miami Dolphins community, established November 18, 2006https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/49617/phinsider-fav.png2014-12-23T13:06:48-05:00http://www.thephinsider.com/rss/stream/71807362014-12-23T13:06:48-05:002014-12-23T13:06:48-05:005 Thoughts on Dolphins Exciting Victory vs Vikings
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<p>Five thoughts on the Dolphins hectic 37-35 victory over the Vikings on Sunday.</p> <p align="justify">The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Miami Dolphins</a> (8-7) kept their hopes of their first winning season since 2008 alive against the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Minnesota Vikings</a> (6-9) on Sunday in a game that came down to an exciting fourth quarter in which 41 combined points were scored.</p>
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<p align="justify">Here are my five thoughts, plus quick hits & quotes, on Sunday's entertaining game between the Dolphins and Vikings:</p>
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<p align="justify"><b>1. Wild shootout</b></p>
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<p align="justify">Offense won the day on Sunday as 72 points were scored. <span>Ryan Tannehill</span> led his offense admirably while throwing for 396 yards and four touchdowns. Rookie <span>Teddy Bridgewater</span> was impressive behind his balanced offensive attack and accumulated a 114.1 passer rating.</p>
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<p align="justify">The Dolphins were down 14 points in the early portions of this game but battled back offensively and eventually took the lead 21-17 on the first play of the fourth quarter. The Vikings put up a field goal on their next possession and the Dolphins responded with a touchdown.</p>
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<p align="justify">The Dolphins finally seemed to be in control of this game after sleepwalking through the early portion, but then the unthinkable happened.</p>
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<p align="justify">The Vikings scored a touchdown to follow up Miami's touchdown to make it 28-26. Minnesota then successfully tried the two-point conversion to tie it up. Dolphins DE Olivier Vernon drew an unsportsmanlike conduct on the play to push the Vikings' kickoff up 15 yards.</p>
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<p align="justify">On the ensuing kickoff, one which was excellently executed, the Vikings popped a high ball to <span>Jarvis Landry</span> and after trying to make a cut at the 8-yard line, Landry fell and fumbled. The Vikings coverage unit was right there to recover. It was Landry's worst moment as a Dolphin.</p>
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<p align="justify">The Vikings scored a touchdown on the ensuing play and suddenly the score was 35-28 and the Dolphins had lost all control over this game.</p>
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<p align="justify">But Tannehill and the offense didn't panic. Tannehill opened the drive with 22 and 11-yard completions to <span>Charles Clay</span> and Jarvis Landry. Six plays later the Dolphins were in the redzone with two minutes left in the game.</p>
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<p align="justify">After taking a sack on first down for a loss of 13 yards, his worst play of the day, Tannehill hit Wallace for 14 yards to earn back the loss. Then, after a false start pushed them back, Tannehill threw a long fade route to <span>Mike Wallace</span>. The pass wasn't particularly good, but Wallace was able to draw a pass interference and a first down. The Dolphins scored a touchdown on the ensuing play to tie it up. The clutch 11-play drive ate up 3:24 from the clock and put the Dolphins in position for a wild finish.</p>
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<p align="justify"><b>2. Clutch defense from Dolphins despite defensive breakdowns</b></p>
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<p align="justify">It was an awesome game to watch, ending 37-35, but then the Dolphins' defensive ineptitude hits you when you realize the Dolphins were facing the league's 20th ranked scoring offense. The Vikings average only 20.8 points per game this season, but were able to put up 35 on Miami.</p>
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<p align="justify">This is due to a formula put out by the <a href="https://www.milehighreport.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Denver Broncos</a> on how to beat the Dolphins (and favorable field position for the Vikings for most of the game).</p>
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<p align="justify">The formula includes a heavy dose of the run against Miami's smaller front seven, then taking advantage of the 7-yard cushion that Dolphins cornerbacks play with on short down-and-distances/ favorable passing situations.</p>
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<p align="justify">Despite giving up 35 points, the Dolphins defense came up big on the Vikings last series.</p>
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<p align="justify">The Vikings, after scoring on three straight possessions, had the ball with just over a minute left in a tie ball game. Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater had been lighting it up to that point, throwing only six incompletions.</p>
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<p align="justify">But on this final series, a series that the defense absolutely could not lose, the Dolphins defense stepped up. We've seen Miami's defense fall short in this situation two times this year, but Miami's defense finished emphatically. After forcing a 3rd and 8 situation, Dolphins defensive end <span>Cameron Wake</span>, who's been having an inconsistent year, made his presence felt. Wake flew around the right edge of the Vikings line and wrapped up Bridgewater for a four yard loss, which set up...</p>
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<p align="justify"><b>3. A walk off safety for the second year in a row</b></p>
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<p align="justify">Last year <span>Cameron Wake</span> sacked <a href="https://www.cincyjungle.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Cincinnati Bengals</a> QB <span>Andy Dalton</span> in the endzone to get the walk off safety in overtime of a Thursday night game. Sunday, he merely set up the play by pushing the punt team four yards back, putting the punters feet in the endzone.</p>
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<p align="justify">A bad long snapper/punter exchange on Minnesota's part allowed rookie defensive end <span>Terrence Fede</span> enough time to get into the backfield and block the punt, sending it back into the stands for a safety.</p>
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<p align="justify">It wasn't quite a walk off because an onside kick ensued, but the safety broke the tie and allowed the Dolphins to leave victorious without extra time needed (though I was confident that Ryan Tannehill would lead Miami's offense down for a game-winning field goal).</p>
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<p align="justify"><b>4. Determination</b></p>
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<p align="justify">Why do I say that? Because this team was could've easily quit two times in this meaningless game. Once after the Vikings got down to the 1-yard line before halftime and another after Landry fumbled a kickoff in the fourth quarter and the Vikings got the ball inside Miami's 10-yard line.</p>
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<p align="justify">The Dolphins produced a goal line stand that forced the Vikings to settle for a field goal before half. And although the Dolphins defense allowed a touchdown following that Landry fumble, which was the second Vikings touchdown in under 30 seconds, the Dolphins offense responded with a game-tying touchdown.</p>
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<p align="justify">The Dolphins could've easily defaulted to the "Same old Dolphins" script that has followed this Dolphin team for a decade when pressed into these tough spots. But the Dolphins rose to the circumstance that they had put themselves in and overcame it. In a meaningless game, they showed the grit, determination and heart to stay focused and pull out the victory, just for the sake of victory.</p>
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<p align="justify"><b>5. Perspective on the future</b></p>
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<p align="justify">Dolphins owner Stephen Ross's announcement that HC Joe Philbin will be returning next season changes everything. No more speculation, no more rumors, no more waiting for something to happen.</p>
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<p align="justify">Joe Philbin will be the Miami Dolphins head coach next season.</p>
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<p align="justify">While I still question if the Dolphins have a winning culture under Philbin, I am oddly relieved by the announcement. Now there will be no unanswered questions. No what-could've-been's. We will get a definitive answer on who and what Joe Philbin is as a head coach. We will see how far he can really bring a football team. Joe Philbin will be back next year, but from this moment on the mantra of "2015 playoffs or bust" is in effect.</p>
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<p align="justify"><b>QUICK HITS & QUOTES</b></p>
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<p align="justify">- The Dolphins offense accumulated 36 first downs, the most first downs Miami has earned in a single game this season by a hefty margin.</p>
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<p align="justify">- <span>Damien Williams</span>, and undrafted rookie, caught the game-tying touchdown and converted a third down on that same drive. Despite having a costless drop of a touchdown pass last week, Williams has proved himself valuable to this team.</p>
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<p align="justify">- <span>Brent Grimes</span> was uncharacteristically torched on Sunday. Grimes allowed two touchdowns and was beat badly on both routes.</p>
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<p align="justify">- <span>Dion Sims</span> continues to emerge at tight end. Sims scored the Dolphins only first half touchdown after shaking the safety that was covering him out of his shoes.</p>
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<p align="justify">- Mike Wallace continues to make "wow" plays this season and further confuse those in a love-hate relationship with the receiver. Wallace contested for a ball on a comeback, then caught the ball off the tip and dove into the endzone for a third quarter touchdown.</p>
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<p align="justify">- Half of the Vikings third downs were three yards or less.</p>
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<p align="justify">- The Dolphins still didn't put together 60 minutes of solid football. But they played their best half in the second. Playing well in crunch time will lead to victories.</p>
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<p align="justify">- "We told the guys at halftime. I thought our coaches did a good job of making some adjustments. Nothing major. We didn’t invent any really news plays or anything like that. The guys kept their poise. I told the team at halftime we’ve been in this situation before. We’ve been down at half ten points here on this field and have been able to come back. We’ve just got to play one play at a time, one possession at a time." - Joe Philbin.</p>
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<p align="justify">- "The way we’ve played in the second half the last couple of weeks…as I mentioned today the theme with the team the whole week was play sixty minutes. Play sixty minutes. Every time I walked over to the bench it’s all they ever heard from me. Just keep playing. Again, we made some mistakes, but the guys made enough plays when it counted and we came back from ten down, and went up ahead by eight, then gave up eight points, and found a way to tie it back up and all that stuff. I thought they showed some resilience."- Joe Philbin.</p>
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<p align="justify">- "Obviously we don’t want to be in a hole and have to fight our way out but the way it happened shows character. Regardless of what is in front of us, everyone stepped up. When plays needed to be made, it happened. I’m proud of all the guys and it feels good."- Cam Wake.</p>
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<p align="justify">- "It was a bad snap, and I saw the ball on the ground, so I was like, forget the hold up, I’m going to go try and block the kick. And that’s what happened, I was able to go and block the kick. It felt amazing. It’s something that I haven’t felt in a while. You know I haven’t been making enough plays that I wanted to make, but that’s just the beginning of everything."- Terrence Fede.</p>
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<p align="justify">- "It feels good especially for a guy like Fede, a young guy who’s just trying to make plays. He does a lot for this team that people don’t see. Every day of practice, he’s playing every single special teams, every single defensive snap on scout team, then he’s taking defensive reps. He’s suiting up as an offensive blocker. He does a lot for this team. It was really nice and special to see him win the game for us." - <span>Jared Odrick</span>.</p>
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<p align="justify">- "I was thrilled for Coach (Philbin). I’ve stated to you guys from the very get-go that I think Coach Philbin has been building something special here. Obviously we wish it would have translated into some more wins here sooner than it has, but there is no doubt in my mind he has built a great foundation as has the entire staff here together. I think the future is bright, and I think the organization will see that as we move forward. I’m thrilled for coach and for the staff." - Kevin Coyle.</p>
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<p align="justify">- "Like I said, as I’ve said many times as I tell our staff, and I believe this, I believed this for 30 years that players deserve a coach that believes in them. That belief I think allows players to hopefully reach their potential. It’s important for a head coach of a NFL football team that the owner believes in him, what he is doing and the program he is instilling. It’s very important. If you don’t have that type of belief and faith from the owner, it’s not going to work. I know if players don’t believe in their coaches and coaches don’t believe in their players, you have no chance. It’s important." - Joe Philbin</p>
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<p align="justify">- "Some endings get crazy and that was one of them. That’s what football is. It’s not supposed to make sense and when it doesn’t make sense in our favor, it feels that much better. It’s a great thrill and definitely a great win." - Jared Odrick.</p>
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https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/12/23/7441961/5-thoughts-on-miami-dolphins-thrilling-37-35-victory-over-minnesotaDanny Williams2014-12-23T07:00:02-05:002014-12-23T07:00:02-05:00Dolphins Stock Watch Week 16
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<figcaption>Steve Mitchell-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Miami Dolphins beat the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday. We take a stock watch look at the performance.</p> <p>For the second straight season, the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> will finish the year with a non-losing record. A winning record could come next week if the Dolphins are able to beat the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/">New York Jets</a>, but before we move on to Jets' week, we take a look back at the Dolphins' 37-35 win over the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> this past Sunday.</p>
<p>The Dolphins did not start off well against the Vikings, but the offense eventually got hot and they were able to get back into the contest, ultimately winning with a special teams safety. Our stock watch takes a look at the up and down performances from the game.</p>
<p><b>Stock Up: <span>Ryan Tannehill</span>, quarterback - </b>35-for-47, 396 yards, 4 touchdowns, 1 interception, 118.8 passer rating. That's a great day for the Dolphins' third-year quarterback, who is within reach of a 4,000 yard passing season with one game to play. The four touchdown passes were the most by a Dolphins quarterback since Dan Marino threw four in 1998. The Miami offense tallied 36 first downs during the game, a new franchise single-game record.</p>
<p><b>Stock Down: <span>Philip Wheeler</span>, linebacker - </b>Maybe this is actually a stock up rating for the Dolphins coaching staff, but Wheeler is clearly starting to be phased out of the defense. As a starting linebacker, he played a grand total of nine snaps. <span>Jason Trusnik</span> actually played more defensive snaps than Wheeler. Wheeler recorded one tackle on the day, and appears set to play in his last game in aqua this upcoming weekend.</p>
<p><b>Stock Up: <span>Terrence Fede</span>, defensive end - </b>I typically try not to give out stock ratings based on one play, but Fede's punt block for the game winning safety was amazing and it capped a 23-18 fourth quarter for Miami, who went into the period trailing 17-14. "I didn't know where the ball went," Fede told reporters after the game. "I was looking for it in the sky. Then I saw it land in the stands, and I knew it was two points." It was only one play, but Fede deserves a stock up rating for that impact play.</p>
<p><b>Stock Down: <span>Jarvis Landry</span>, wide receiver - </b>Two fumbles during the game hurt, though the Dolphins were able to make up for the mistakes. Landry did have a game-high eight receptions, but laying the ball on the ground, even if Miami recovered one of them, leads to a stock down rating.</p>
<p><b>Stock Up: <span>Charles Clay</span>, tight end - </b>Welcome back Big Play Clay. The Miami starting tight end has been dealing with injuries all year, but looked like himself in this game. He tallied six receptions for a game-high 114 yards. He also had the game-long reception of 41 yards.</p>
<p><b>Stock Down: <span>Brent Grimes</span>, cornerback - </b>Grimes has been one of the top cornerbacks in the league this year, but he struggled on Sunday. According to Pro Football Focus, Grimes allowed 6 receptions on 7 targets, for 88 yards and two touchdowns. It was clearly not a headline day for Miami's top cornerback.</p>
<p><b>Stock Up: Cameron Wake, defensive end - </b>Wake woke up after a late season slump this week, taking down Teddy Bridgewater twice and breaking through the double digit sacks barrier for the season. He is now at 11.5 sacks, good enough for ninth in the league. Hitting double digits gave Wake a $750,000 bonus, money well deserved for the All Pro.</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/12/23/7438783/dolphins-stock-watch-miami-victory-over-vikingsKevin Nogle2014-12-21T12:30:01-05:002014-12-21T12:30:01-05:00Vikings vs Dolphins live game thread
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<p>Our weekly live thread for the Miami Dolphins. This week, the Dolphins welcome the Minnesota Vikings to South Florida. Join the discussion of the game right here with your fellow Dolphins fans.</p> <table border="1" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" width="100%"><tbody> <tr height="20"> <td height="20"><strong>Date</strong></td> <td>December 21, 2014</td> <td><strong>Location</strong></td> <td>Miami Gardens, FL</td> </tr> <tr height="20"> <td height="20"><strong>Time</strong></td> <td>1 pm EST</td> <td><strong>Stadium</strong></td> <td>Sun Life Stadium</td> </tr> <tr height="20"> <td height="20"><strong>TV</strong></td> <td>Fox<br><a href="http://506sports.com/" target="_blank">More TV coverage info</a><br> </td> <td><strong>Spread / O/U</strong></td> <td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/odds" target="_blank">Dolphins by 6.5</a></td> </tr> <tr height="20"> <td height="20"><strong>Radio</strong></td> <td>105.9FM - Miami<br>940AM - Miami<br>1140AM (Spanish) - Miami<br><a href="http://www.miamidolphins.com/finatics/radio-network.html" target="_blank">Dolphins Radio Network</a><br> </td> <td><strong>Weather</strong></td> <td>79°F, Partly Cloudy</td> </tr> <tr height="20"> <td height="20"><strong>Online</strong></td> <td><a target="_blank" href="http://nflst.directv.com/DTVAPP/nflws/index.jsp">NFLSundayTicket.TV</a></td> <td><strong>SBN Affiliate</strong></td> <td><a href="http://www.dailynorseman.com/">Daily Norseman</a></td> </tr> </tbody></table>
<p>The Miami Dolphins start their two-game home stand to complete the regular season by welcoming the Minnesota Vikings into Sun Life Stadium. Miami's playoff hopes revolve around a bunch of losses from other teams, but none of that will matter if the Dolphins cannot win this game.</p>
<p>The Vikings may be out of the playoffs, but they are looking to prevent a losing season, potentially ending the year with a .500 record. They have to win both of their final games to make it happen, meaning they will be coming out looking to prove something this week.</p>
<p><strong>Do not post links to illegal online streams, and do not ask for others to post them.</strong></p>
<p>And, as always...</p>
<p><strong>GO DOLPHINS!</strong></p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/12/21/7428747/vikings-at-dolphins-live-chat-scoring-updates-tv-schedule-and-onlineKevin Nogle2014-12-21T11:00:03-05:002014-12-21T11:00:03-05:00Phinsider Week 16 PIcks
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<figcaption>Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Our Phinsider contributors are back with their picks for Week 16.</p> <p>The Phinsider Week 16 picks are back, and everyone continues to chase James"Tex" McKinney. Seriously, can this guy have a bad week? While Brian Naidus, jamesradio1979, and Danny Williams won Week 15 with 12&4 records, McKinney only lost one game to each of them, finishing 11&4. Chris "Duke" Early finished Week 15 with a 10&6 record, while Kdog92 and I claimed 9&7 records.</p>
<p>If McKinney does not have a bad week this weekend or next, he should walk away with the season championship easily, currently leading the pack by eight games. His 152-71-1 record puts him at 68-percent correct on the year. Chasing him is Naidus, who slides into second place this week at 144-79-1. I have third place at 142-81-1, just a game up on Duke in fourth place. Williams is fifth at 136-86-1, then Kdog92 at 135-88-1, and finally jamesradio1979 with a 132-91-1 record.</p>
<p>Our Week 16 picks are:</p>
<table border="1" dir="ltr" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0">
<colgroup>
<col width="182">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
<col width="100">
</colgroup>
<tbody>
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<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Kevin"]'>Kevin</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Tex"]'>Tex</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Duke"]'>Duke</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Brian"]'>Brian</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Kdog"]'>Kdog</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"James F."]'>jamesradio1979</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Danny"]'>Danny</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Last Week"]'>Last Week</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"9+7"]'>9&7</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"11+5"]'>11&5</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"10+6"]'>10&6</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"12+4"]'>12&4</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"9+7"]'>9&7</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"12+4"]'>12&4</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"12+4"]'>12&4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"Overall"]'>Overall</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"142+81+1"]'>142-81-1</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"152+71+1"]'>152-71-1</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"141+82+1"]'>141-82-1</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"144+79+1"]'>144-79-1</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"135+88+1"]'>135-88-1</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"132+91+1"]'>132-91-1</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"137+86+1"]'>137-86-1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"TEN @ JAX"]'>TEN @ JAX</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"JAX"]'>JAX</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"JAX"]'>JAX</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"TEN"]'>TEN</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"JAX"]'>JAX</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"JAX"]'>JAX</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"JAX"]'>JAX</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"JAX"]'>JAX</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PHI @ WAS"]'>PHI @ WAS</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PHI"]'>PHI</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PHI"]'>PHI</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PHI"]'>PHI</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PHI"]'>PHI</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PHI"]'>PHI</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PHI"]'>PHI</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SD @ SF"]'>SD @ SF</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SD"]'>SD</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SD"]'>SD</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SF"]'>SF</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SD"]'>SD</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SD"]'>SD</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SD"]'>SD</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MIN @ MIA"]'>MIN @ MIA</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MIA"]'>MIA</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MIA"]'>MIA</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MIA"]'>MIA</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MIA"]'>MIA</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MIA"]'>MIA</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"MIA"]'>MIA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BAL @ HOU"]'>BAL @ HOU</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BAL"]'>HOU</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BAL"]'>BAL</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"HOU"]'>HOU</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BAL"]'>BAL</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BAL"]'>BAL</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BAL"]'>BAL</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DET @ CHI"]'>DET @ CHI</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DET"]'>DET</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DET"]'>DET</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DET"]'>DET</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DET"]'>DET</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DET"]'>DET</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DET"]'>DET</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"CLE @ CAR"]'>CLE @ CAR</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"CLE"]'>CLE</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"CAR"]'>CAR</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"CAR"]'>CAR</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"CAR"]'>CAR</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"CAR"]'>CAR</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"CAR"]'>CAR</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"ATL @ NO"]'>ATL @ NO</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NO"]'>ATL</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NO"]'>NO</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NO"]'>NO</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NO"]'>NO</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NO"]'>NO</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NO"]'>NO</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"GB @ TB"]'>GB @ TB</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"GB"]'>GB</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"GB"]'>GB</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"GB"]'>GB</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"GB"]'>GB</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"GB"]'>GB</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"GB"]'>GB</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"KC @ PIT"]'>KC @ PIT</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"KC"]'>KC</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PIT"]'>PIT</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PIT"]'>PIT</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"KC"]'>KC</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"PIT"]'>PIT</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"KC"]'>KC</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NE @ NYJ"]'>NE @ NYJ</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NE"]'>NE</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NE"]'>NE</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NE"]'>NE</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NE"]'>NE</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NE"]'>NE</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NE"]'>NE</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NYG @ STL"]'>NYG @ STL</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"STL"]'>STL</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"STL"]'>STL</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"STL"]'>STL</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NYG"]'>NYG</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"STL"]'>STL</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"NYG"]'>NYG</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BUF @ OAK"]'>BUF @ OAK</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BUF"]'>BUF</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BUF"]'>BUF</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BUF"]'>BUF</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BUF"]'>BUF</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BUF"]'>BUF</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"BUF"]'>BUF</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"IND @ DAL"]'>IND @ DAL</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"IND"]'>IND</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DAL"]'>DAL</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"IND"]'>IND</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"IND"]'>IND</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"IND"]'>IND</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DAL"]'>DAL</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SEA @ ARI"]'>SEA @ ARI</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SEA"]'>SEA</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SEA"]'>SEA</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SEA"]'>SEA</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SEA"]'>SEA</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SEA"]'>SEA</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"SEA"]'>SEA</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DEN @ CIN"]'>DEN @ CIN</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DEN"]'>DEN</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DEN"]'>DEN</td>
<td></td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DEN"]'>DEN</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DEN"]'>DEN</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DEN"]'>DEN</td>
<td data-sheets-value='[null,2,"DEN"]'>DEN</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/12/21/7430139/nfl-winners-picks-phinsider-contributors-straight-up-picks-for-week-16Kevin Nogle2014-12-21T09:59:03-05:002014-12-21T09:59:03-05:007 Things to Watch For in Dolphins vs Vikings
<figure>
<img alt="QB Ryan Tannehill handing off to RB Lamar Miller" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/OCxb-sjjoKR-lvef1GhxlzxjYR0=/0x0:4804x3203/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/44381244/usa-today-8224301.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>QB Ryan Tannehill handing off to RB Lamar Miller | Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Seven things to watch for Sunday when the Minnesota Vikings attempt to end Miami's hopes of achieving their first winning season since 2008.</p> <p align="justify">The <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Miami Dolphins</a> (7-7) host the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Minnesota Vikings</a> (6-8) Sunday. This may not be a very enticing game nationally, but if you're from Miami this game has a lot to look at.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">I'll explain further in this breakdown of what to watch for in Dolphins versus Vikings:</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><b>1. Young player development</b></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">The Dolphins aren't realistically in playoff hunt. Therefore, this coaching staff should play younger players such as <span>Billy Turner</span>, who has been inactive all year, and <span>Matt Hazel</span>, who was promoted from the practice squad Friday, to see what they have in these pieces.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">Some players know how to take advantage of opportunities when put on the football field. Let's see if any of these younger guys who are average in practice become gamers when they're playing in front of thousands on Sunday.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><b>2. Teddy Bridgewater's return to Miami</b></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">Bridgewater, a once University of Miami commit, snubbed the U due to the firing of then-coach Randy Shannon and subsequently went to Louisville in 2010.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">Now, nearly a full year later after beating the University of Miami in the 2013 Russell Athletic Bowl, Bridgewater returns to Miami to attempt to break the hearts of Miami fans yet again.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">Bridgewater, being from Miami and having played high school football at Northwestern, still has a plethora of support in Miami. It will be interesting to see how many Bridgewater fans show up to Sun Life Stadium Sunday.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><strong>3. Can the Dolphins play 60 minutes of football?</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">This is the question that has plagued this Dolphin team all season. This Dolphins team has played only two complete games this season, against the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/oakland-raiders" class="sbn-auto-link">Oakland Raiders</a> and <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/teams/san-diego-chargers" class="sbn-auto-link">San Diego Chargers</a>, and both of those games were virtually won by halftime.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">The Dolphins need to show they can play a full 60 minute game with high-intensity, energy and focus. If this recurring problem spills over into the Dolphins' contest against the Vikings then things will get very ugly after the game for Joe Philbin and his team.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><strong>4. Miller Time</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">For the love of God, feed this man the rock. <span>Lamar Miller</span> has only one game with at least 20 touches this year, and it was exactly 20 touches.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">Miller has proven himself to be a much better runner this year, but has seemingly been punished for it, being taken out of games before he finds a good rhythm. Miller, who averages 4.7 yards per attempt, only averages 12.7 carries per game.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">The Vikings have a strong secondary but are vulnerable against the run. Minnesota gives up 4.3 yards per carry defensively.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">Miller has 829 yards on the season, and he and the offensive line are determined to get Miller to his first career 1,000-yard season. But in order for that to happen, offensive coordinator Bill Lazor will have to set his clock to Miller Time.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><strong>5. Key stats</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">Third down, redzone, fourth quarter. These are the three areas the Dolphins have struggled with the most this season. These issues can be linked to personnel, play-calling and execution (meaning it's not just one problem causing these issues).</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">Can the Dolphins produce in these situations Sunday? It will be interesting to see.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><strong>6. Aggression</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">No, this doesn't refer to the team (though we should expect to see an angry bunch playing for pride). Takeaways and chunk yardage plays, can the Dolphins produce these? The season is coming to an end, which means the time to play it safe is long gone and the time to gamble is upon us.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">We saw the Dolphins offense do that last week, taking five deep shots downfield in the first half. Now let's see how far this aggressive nature can take the Dolphins. The style of play they are using now isn't working, let's see where a bit more aggression on offense can take them.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">Same thing goes defensively. For the secondary however. Miami's cornerbacks play with a seven-yard cushion on nearly every play. The Dolphins should play their cornerbacks a bit closer to the line and let them jump some routes. Especially on blitzes. The most frustrating thing is seeing the Dolphins send in a beautifully timed and schemed blitz only to have the opposing quarterback get rid of the ball to an open underneath receiver because of off-coverage.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify"><strong>7. A game Miami should win</strong></p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">The Dolphins are 4-0 against teams with a losing record. According to the trend of the season, the Dolphins should win this game. Now, I have no idea what will happen, but I do know that the Vikings are a well-coached team under Mike Zimmer and will be ready to play come kickoff.</p>
<p align="justify"> </p>
<p align="justify">This is a game the Dolphins should win, and to this point in the season they have been able to. But you know what they say.... Anything can happen on any given Sunday!</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/DWPhinsider" data-size="large" class="twitter-follow-button" data-show-count="false">Follow @DWPhinsider</a>
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https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/12/21/7430137/7-things-to-watch-for-in-miami-dolphins-vs-minnesota-vikingsDanny Williams2014-12-21T09:00:03-05:002014-12-21T09:00:03-05:00Vikings-Dolphins injury report
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yUP6KOPLG2WNEIbndth6TaPYVT8=/0x296:3492x2624/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/44380316/usa-today-8264449.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Chris Humphreys-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>A final look at the injury report for this weekend's Minnesota Vikings at Miami Dolphins game.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> host the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/">Minnesota Vikings</a> last this afternoon. Both teams come into the penultimate contest of the 2014 NFL regular season hoping to win out, Miami to keep their slim playoff hopes alive and reach a winning record for a season for the first time since 2008, while Minnesota is trying to reach the .500 mark before the season ends. They will both have to do it with banged up rosters.</p>
<p>Miami will once again be without reserve offensive lineman <span>Nate Garner</span>, who has been dealing with migraine headaches for the past few weeks. They may also be missing their two Thomases, offensive lineman <span>Dallas Thomas</span>, who is dealing with a foot injury, and running back <span>Daniel Thomas</span>, who has a knee problem, both of whom are listed as doubtful.</p>
<p>The news is a little better for linebacker <span>Jelani Jenkins</span>, who has been sidelined by a foot injury, safety <span>Don Jones</span>, who has an injured shoulder, and cornerback <span>Jamar Taylor</span>, who is still dealing with a shoulder he dislocated earlier this season. All three are listed as questionable, meaning they are 50-50 to play this afternoon.</p>
<p>Miami's list of injured players who are probable to play is dominated by linebackers, with <span>Jonathan Freeny</span> (hamstring), <span>Chris McCain</span> (ankle), <span>Koa Misi</span> (hamstring/knee), and <span>Jordan Tripp</span> (foot) all listed. Tight end <span>Charles Clay</span>, who has been battling a hamstring and knee problem throughout the season, and cornerback <span>Cortland Finnegan</span>, who sprained his ankle earlier in the year, are both also probable for the contest.</p>
<p>The Vikings will be without linebacker <span>Anthony Barr</span>, out with a knee injury, and guard <span>Charlie Johnson</span>, who will miss the game because of an ankle issue. Tight end <span>Kyle Rudolph</span>, who is having problems with his ankle and knee, is doubtful.</p>
<p>Minnesota only had one player, safety <span>Robert Blanton</span>, with a knee/ankle issue, listed as questionable, while nine players landed in the probable category: running back <span>Matt Asiata</span> (foot), defensive tackle Sharriff Floyd (knee), linebacker <span>Chad Greenway</span> (non-injury), wide receiver <span>Greg Jennings</span> (hamstring), nose tackle <span>Linval Joseph</span> (illness), long snapper <span>Cullen Loeffler</span> (illness), cornerback <span>Xavier Rhodes</span> (wrist), defensive end <span>Brian Robison</span> (ankle), and safety <span>Andrew Sendejo</span> (thumb).</p>
<p>The Vikings and Dolphins kickoff at 1pm ET today.</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/miami-dolphins-injuries/2014/12/21/7428871/vikings-at-dolphins-injury-reportKevin Nogle2014-12-20T13:00:24-05:002014-12-20T13:00:24-05:00Good Offseason Starts With Losses in Final 2 Games
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/gMaHUbU3-fRINFWunSf3D78fIrI=/0x365:3439x2658/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/44377746/usa-today-8257256.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Brad Barr-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>It's tough to root against the Dolphins, but in order for the best results to happen this offseason, Miami must lose or play poorly in their final two games. Let me explain....</p> <p>Never in my life have I rooted for the <a href="https://www.thephinsider.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Miami Dolphins</a> to lose a football game. Never in my life have I wanted to trade the glory of a victory for the offseason perks of a loss.</p>
<p>I was even against the "Suck for Luck" campaign of 2011 in which a large portion of fans wanted the Dolphins to tank their season after an 0-7 start with the hopes of landing <span>Andrew Luck</span>.</p>
<p>However, this shortsighted policy of mine may be renounced for 2014's finish. I just don't see any good that can come for the Dolphins by achieving victories in the two remaining games of the season.</p>
<p>As loyal fans, you never want to see your team lose. But as <em>Dolphins</em> fans, you really want your team to be out of the pit of mediocrity that it's been residing in since the retirement of Dan Marino.</p>
<p>In order for the Dolphins to finally climb the NFL's mountain of elites, they'll need a new head coach.</p>
<p>There have been rumors that Dolphins owner Stephen Ross is not considering making a change at head coach and that he will keep Philbin for another season if Philbin were achieve his first winning season as the Dolphins head coach. I, like the Miami Herald's Armando Salguero, think that this is a bluff by Ross, that he has learned from his past mistakes of being to eager in landing a big name coach/player and is playing this one cool.</p>
<p>But what if he's not? What if Ross really isn't considering a change? Well, this is the exact, and only, reason why I want the Dolphins to lose. To give Ross a bit more incentive.</p>
<p>I've been a Joe Philbin defender in the past. Philbin is well-respected in the league and supposedly supported in the Dolphins locker room. I've wanted to believe that he would be the offensive mind he was advertised to be and that he would take Miami to the next level.</p>
<p>But it's not going to happen. This team will never be more than average with Philbin at the helm because of the standard's that Philbin has set for his team and a lack of a winning mentality.</p>
<p>Philbin simply asks for his team to be competitive. In nearly every press conference, whether pre-game, post-game or post-practice, Philbin will always give a mention of his team's competitiveness, as that's his bar for excellence.</p>
<p>I'm not saying it's a bad thing to be competitive in the NFL. Everyone in the NFL must be ready to compete at their highest level for 60 minutes on Sunday. I'm saying that being competitive in the NFL is a given. Being competitive in a league where everyone is talented and everyone is getting paid should be taken for granted. Really, it should.</p>
<p>Being better than the other team mentally and physically.</p>
<p>Sustaining high-energy and intensity throughout the game.</p>
<p><strong>Winning</strong>.</p>
<p>These are the standards that should be set in a professional football organization.</p>
<p>The Dolphins are a consistently bad team in crunch time. If you do you're job bad, is it your fault or your bosses fault? Well, if you're boss sets the standard of "doing your best" then it's nobodies fault... until you both get fired.</p>
<p>But let's revisit the first sentence on that team from another angle and dive deeper in.</p>
<p>Philbin's teams are consistently bad in crunch time, as I stated. The Philbin-led Dolphins are 4-4 the last two years in December, both years where the Dolphins had an opportunity to make the playoffs if they hadn't folded in crunch time.</p>
<p>That stat is skewed a bit as the Dolphins won three straight early-December games in 2013 to quality opponents before folding in embarrassing losses to the <a href="https://www.buffalorumblings.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Buffalo Bills</a> and <a href="https://www.ganggreennation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">New York Jets</a>, losses in which Miami's offense put up only seven combined points.</p>
<p>Since those three straight December wins in 2013, the Dolphins have been 1-4 in December. Miami's offense averaged 9.8 points per game and the defense allowed 24.2 points per game in those contests.</p>
<p>In 2013, the Dolphins record in games decided in the fourth quarter or overtime was 5-4. In 2014, that number regressed to 2-3. The Dolphins had far less opportunities at winning games decided in the fourth quarter because the team has tended to fail to put together two good halves of football in games in 2014. Three out of the last four Dolphins games have featured the Dolphins being ripped apart in the second half and eventually beaten.</p>
<p>Philbin admitted to being "queasy" at the end of the Green Bay game. A game that ended in a last-second touchdown pass by <a href="https://www.acmepackingcompany.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Packers</a> QB Aaron Rodgers. Is that the type of mentality you should have in that situation when leading a pack of 53 men?</p>
<p>I've stated on Twitter that you could make a pretty good argument to bring Philbin back (depending on what happens in the final two games of the season).</p>
<p>Injuries have depleted the Dolphins this year. Miami has 12 players currently on the Reserve/Injured list, five of which were key players for the Dolphins. Despite this, Philbin's team has an opportunity to finish with a winning record for the first time since 2008 by winning the final two games of the season.</p>
<p>If Philbin was able to produce a winning record this year, that would mean he improved in the win column by one game in each of his seasons in Miami. Based on that pace the Dolphins will likely be in line for playoff contention next year.</p>
<p>Despite that argument, Philbin would not be back if I was Stephen Ross.</p>
<p>Philbin's teams, in my opinion, lack a killer instinct and the ability to close games. They don't know how to win and frankly they're a bit soft. Could they learn? Yes. Is it guaranteed? Well, nothing in this game is guaranteed, but if you're wagering on whether Philbin or a new head coach could implement a winning mentality into this team faster, I'd go with the latter.</p>
<p>It's tough to predict what will happen in the Dolphins final two games of the season, and the corresponding offseason, but there's no doubt the events of the former will effect the latter. It's for this reason that I, for the first time, will not be rooting for the Dolphins to pull off a victory.</p>
<p>Do we (or more importantly, Ross) want to gamble on another 8-8 season from "Queasy Joe", or hand this talented group of players to a new head coach, such as Jim Harbaugh or Gary Kubiak, and see where they can take the franchise?</p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/DWPhinsider" data-show-count="false" data-size="large" class="twitter-follow-button">Follow @DWPhinsider</a>
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</p>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/12/20/7427265/miami-dolphins-good-offseason-starts-with-losses-in-final-two-gamesDanny Williams2014-12-20T11:11:02-05:002014-12-20T11:11:02-05:00Vikings vs Dolphins Tale of the Tape
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yPEmQfuWB5aP7hUOactqswpVezk=/0x103:2424x1719/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/44377338/usa-today-8101286.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Timothy T. Ludwig-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>How do the Minnesota Vikings and Miami Dolphins match up?</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.thephinsider.com/">Miami Dolphins</a> host the <a href="https://www.dailynorseman.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Minnesota Vikings</a> in a late season contest. Let's take a look at the tale of the tape between the two clubs:</p>
<table border="1" width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><b>Minnesota Vikings (6-8, 3rd NFC North)</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Miami Dolphins (7-7, 3rd AFC East)</strong></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">28th<br>(312.9)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Total Offense<br>(Yds/Gm)</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">19th<br>(337.2)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">27th<br>(201.1)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Passing Offense<br>(Yds/Gm)</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">20th<br>(224.1)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">15th<br>(111.7)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Rushing Offense<br>(Yds/Gm)</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">14th<br>(113.1)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">24th<br>(19.8)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Scoring Offense<br>(Pts/Gm)</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">12th<br>(23.4)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">27th<br>(36.4%)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>3rd Down Conversions<br>(% Convert)</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">22nd<br>(38.5%)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">11th<br>(339.9)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Total Defense<br>(Yds/Gm Allowed)</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">7th<br>(331.6)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">6th<br>(216.0)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Passing Defense<br>(Yds/Gm Allowed)</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">4th<br>(209.2)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">23rd<br>(123.9)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Rushing Defense<br>(Yds/Gm Allowed)</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">22nd<br>(122.4)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">12th<br>(21.2)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Scoring Defense<br>(Pts/Gm Allowed)</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">15th<br>(21.5)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">5th<br>(44)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Defensive Sacks</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">12th<br>(38)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center">17th<br>(-1)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Turnovers</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center">12th<br>(+3)</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<p>And, for the individual tales of the tape (<b>bold</b> statistics indicate league leader):</p>
<table border="1" width="100%">
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><b>Minnesota Vikings (6-8, 3rd NFC North)</b></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"> </p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Miami Dolphins (7-7, 3rd AFC East)</strong></p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Teddy Bridgewater</span><br>(223-351 (63.5%), 2451 yards, 11 TD, 10 INT, 82.7 rate)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Passing</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Ryan Tannehill</span> <br>(334-504 (66.3%), 3390 yards, 22 TD, 11 INT, 90.8 rate)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Matt Asiata</span><br>(129 carries, 421 yards, 3.3 average, 7 TD)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Rushing</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Lamar Miller</span> <br>(178 carries, 829 yards, 4.7 average, 6 TD)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Greg Jennings</span><br>(53 rec, 84 targets, 641 yards, 5 TDs)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Receiving</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Mike Wallace</span> <br>(62 rec, 109 targets, 804 yards, 8 TDs)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Robert Blanton</span> (95)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Tackles</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Jelani Jenkins</span> (99)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Everson Griffen</span> (12.0)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Sacks</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Cameron Wake</span> (9.5)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Harrison Smith</span> (4)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Interceptions</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Brent Grimes</span> (5)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Blair Walsh</span><br>(22-31 (71.0%) FG, 55 yard long, 25-25 XP, 91 pts)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Kicking</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Caleb Sturgis</span> <br>(28-34 (82.4%) FG, 53 yard long, 33-33 XP, 117 pts)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Jeff Locke</span><br>(69 punts, 44.4 yard average, 62 long, 18 inside 20, 6 touchback)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Punting</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Brandon Fields</span> <br>(51 punts, 46.3 yard average, 60 long, 19 inside 20, 2 touchback)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Cordarrelle Patterson</span><br>(32 returns, 25.8 yard average, 51 yard long)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Kick Returns</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Jarvis Landry</span> <br>(27 returns, 29.7 yard average, 74 yard long)</p>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Marcus Sherels</span><br>(26 returns, 10.2 yard average, 35 yard long)</p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><strong>Punt Returns</strong></p>
</td>
<td>
<p align="center"><span>Jarvis Landry</span> <br>(23 returns, 8.9 yard average, 32 yard long)</p>
</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
https://www.thephinsider.com/2014/12/20/7426815/vikings-vs-dolphins-week-16-tale-of-the-tapeKevin Nogle